Adult Autism Diagnosis
The Evolution of the Diagnosis
A therapeutic assessment approach
The Evolution of the Diagnosis
The introduction of the DSM-5 in 2013 brought significant changes to the diagnostic criteria for autism in adults. One of the major revisions was the consolidation of Autism, Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD), and Asperger's Syndrome into a single diagnosis: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This change aimed to provide a more nuanced
The introduction of the DSM-5 in 2013 brought significant changes to the diagnostic criteria for autism in adults. One of the major revisions was the consolidation of Autism, Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD), and Asperger's Syndrome into a single diagnosis: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This change aimed to provide a more nuanced and comprehensive approach to identifying symptoms across the spectrum, recognizing the variability in how autism presents.
However, this shift also led to challenges and concerns. The elimination of the Asperger's Syndrome category left some individuals without a diagnosis that they felt accurately described their experiences. Some clinicians struggled to adapt to the new classification, and individuals who might have been diagnosed with Asperger's under the old system were not recognized under the new criteria.
In recent years, there has been increasing awareness of the impact of this diagnostic shift. Many undiagnosed adults, who may have felt misunderstood or misdiagnosed for years, are now seeking and receiving autism diagnoses. These adults often experienced a series of misdiagnoses, including being labeled with personality disorders, psychosis, anxiety or depression before receiving an ASD diagnosis. This history of misdiagnosis has led to mistrust in the system, which often pathologized their behaviors and imposed inappropriate, and sometimes traumatic interventions.
Women, in particular, are at a higher risk of being missed in the diagnostic process. Many women are more adept at masking their symptoms. As a result, their struggles and the ways they cope with their environment can be overlooked or misinterpreted. This contributes to a significant gender disparity in autism diagnoses, with many women only being diagnosed later in life, if at all.
Evaluation Process
A therapeutic assessment approach
The Evolution of the Diagnosis
Dr. Mosdell has over 20 years of working with individuals with Autism. Having first hand experience with the full diversity of symptomatology, she is skilled at evaluating for autism in adults. This is a specialized skillset that relies on in-depth interviews, collateral interviews (when available) and a battery of testing tailored to the
Dr. Mosdell has over 20 years of working with individuals with Autism. Having first hand experience with the full diversity of symptomatology, she is skilled at evaluating for autism in adults. This is a specialized skillset that relies on in-depth interviews, collateral interviews (when available) and a battery of testing tailored to the diagnostic question.
Dr. Mosdell's in-person office is located in Springfield, NJ.
A therapeutic assessment approach
A therapeutic assessment approach
A therapeutic assessment approach
Dr. Mosdell's evaluations include a feedback session, which aims to be therapeutic. She helps clients explore identity and what the diagnosis ultimately means to them. She connects clients to resources so that their adult autism diagnosis can play a meaningful part in feeling connected to community.