Looking to Get Officially Diagnosed

[Sportster]

. . .

 

[Geordie]

Hey Sportster,

You may wish to visit Auburn University Psychological Services Center to get diagnosed with autism.

I understand it's really far, it's 4 hours away by car from the Huntsville area, but you could give it a try.

Auburn University Psychological Services Center - Department of Psychology

 

[Loomis]

I?m hoping someone can offer some guidance on how I can be officially diagnosed. I know most on this site are not from where I live, but maybe someone might have an idea that would be helpful. Oddly enough, I cannot find a place that can diagnose Asperger?s. I live in Madison County, Alabama, USA. I did e-mail a place I found, but thus far they have not responded. You?d think a place that is supposed to help Aspies would be more cognizant of what neglecting responding can do to someone like me.

you might try the autism society ot middle Tennnesee:
Autism Society of Middle Tenessee

 

[epath13]

Try to contact this organization (email or call) they might be able to assist you. Just tell them your story and ask if they know how to get an official diagnosis in your area : Easter Seals Alabama : Locations

Another option call your insurance company (if you have one) and ask them to find specialists who do Autism assessments or deal with Autism in any way. Some insurance companies have a separate category where specialists who deal with Autism are placed (and btw, sometimes specialists who deal with children work with adults as well). Sometimes it's better to talk about Autism, not Asperger's (not everybody know about Asperger's specifically in insurance companies, but they have to be aware of Autism). Good luck!

 

[Bay]

I don't know if my experience will help you, but I asked my therapist to recommend someone/anyone in my area. You don't necessarily need to go to a therapist, you can just call or perhaps email the offices of a local therapist and ask them where they send their clients for assessment.

 

[Bay]

Any input is helpful, thanks. I did find one so far that claims to be “an expert in autism.” I’m leery of such, because anyone can get an education and hang an “expert” tag next to their name. Also, her fees are $100 per hour after the rather pricey assessment. I can’t help but wonder how many hours it will take to figure out what I already know.

The test itself usually takes place on a single day. I believe that to receive an official diagnosis you have to see an actual psychiatrist, so that is the level of expert you should be seeking out for testing purposes. You do not have to see a therapist, either before or after a diagnosis, unless you want to. I'm glad that I was seeing one as I went through the discovery and diagnosis process, as it blew my mind.

 

[Bay]

That's excellent news Sportster! If it turns out that they don't have an opening for awhile, don't get discouraged. I had to wait four months to get in. Hope you'll be luckier.