The Functional Legacy Mindset – 5 Mind Model Questionnaire
The Autism Spectrum Quotient: https://psychology-tools.com/test/autism-spectrum-quotient
Psychologist Simon Baron-Cohen and his colleagues at Cambridge’s Autism Research Centre have created the Autism-Spectrum Quotient as a measure of the extent of autistic traits in adults. In the first major trial using the test, the average score in the control group was 16.4. Eighty percent of those diagnosed with autism or a related disorder scored 32 or higher. The test is not a means for making a diagnosis, however, and many who score above 32 and even meet the diagnostic criteria for mild autism or Asperger’s report no difficulty functioning in their everyday lives. The Autism Spectrum Quotient is not a categorical measure of clinical diagnosis and should not be used to replace a face to face clinical interview to assess diagnosis of mental health concerns.
If you are experiencing significant emotional difficulties, you should contact your GP to obtain a referral to see a qualified professional. An Accurate diagnosis can only be made through clinical evaluation with a mental health professional. The DSM-5 criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) requires that symptoms cause clinically significant impairment in social, occupational or other important areas of functioning.
Please see a link below that includes detailed information about the diagnostic and assessment process for ASD for children.
https://raisingchildren.net.au/autism/learning-about-asd
The Autism Spectrum – Please see a visual representation (and link to the full article) By C.L. Lynch. Lynch explains that Autism is a spectrum, not a gradient. Lynch states “Autism is a collection of related neurological conditions and all autistic people are affected in one way or another in most or all of these boxes”.
Misdiagnosis and Missed Diagnosis
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in the DSM-5 consists of two diagnostic criteria: criteria A (social and communication deficits) and criteria B (restricted/repetitive behaviors and abnormal sensory sensitivity). Studies reveal that Autism Spectrum Disorder in adult clients is usually unrecognized due to masking behaviours later in life and often misdiagnosed (schizophrenia, psychotic disorder, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, and/or a personality disorder) by primary care clinicians due to a lack of experiences in detecting Autistic features.
If you feel that you identify with Symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder, I would recommend that you obtain a referral from your general practitioner to see a psychologist whom specialises in the diagnosis and treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Autism Spectrum Disorder requires ongoing management and adequate support. A strength-based perspective does not deny the difficulties associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder, however it also seeks to acknowledge the talents, interests and skills upon which the person can build a life of success and joy.
The Australian Psychological Society, find a psychologist website link, https://www.psychology.org.au/Find-a-Psychologist allows you to search for a psychologist with a particular-area of expertise.
Unique U Psychology https://www.uniqueupsychology.com.au/ provides a specialist service for the recognition of the unique and specific attributes of Autism Spectrum Conditions in girls and women, and support for them.
The ASD clinic in Kew https://www.theasdclinic.com.au/ is a team of highly experienced independent practitioners who specialise in providing psychology services for people of all ages with ASD and their families.
Professional Development
Please find a link below that demonstrates the different presentations of Autism Spectrum Disorder in Children, which was designed as a training film for professionals. ASD Info Wales
I would also highly recommend attending professional development events run by Yellow Lady Bugs
Please find below links (Parts one and two) of a symposium on Good Mental Health for Autistic Girls and Women – held by the Yellow Ladybugs.
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IP © Dr Kerry Chillemi 2019
