Autism

Understanding diagnosis

Understanding Autism Diagnosis

Autism is a natural form of human neurodiversity — a different, not deficient, way of experiencing and responding to the world. It includes differences in social communication, sensory processing, movement, and patterns of interest or focus.

A neurodiversity-affirming approach doesn’t seek to “fix” or “normalise” these differences. Instead, it values and supports them, creating environments where Autistic people can thrive as their authentic selves.

What is a Neurodiversity-Affirming Perspective?

This perspective:

  • Recognises Autism as a valid neurotype, not a disorder to be cured

  • Centres Autistic voices and lived experience

  • Focuses on strengths, identity and inclusion

  • Promotes respect, acceptance, and appropriate supports and accommodations

In other words, it’s not about changing Autistic people to fit the world — it’s about changing the world to include Autistic people.

The Importance of Identification

For many, discovering they are Autistic is a life-changing experience. Whether through formal diagnosis or self-identification, this realisation can offer:

  • A sense of clarity and validation

  • Access to supports, services and accommodations

  • A new lens for understanding one’s experiences

  • Greater self-acceptance and community connection

Identification isn’t about labelling — it’s about empowerment. It allows Autistic individuals to advocate for their needs, embrace their identity, and connect with others who share similar experiences.

The Diagnostic Process: A Neurodiversity-Affirming Approach

 

A neurodiversity-affirming diagnostic process respects Autistic identity, centres lived experience, and avoids deficit-based assumptions. It is not about labelling or fixing — it’s about understanding, validating and supporting.

Initial Observations

Questions about developmental differences may be raised by the individual themselves, or by caregivers, teachers or health professionals. In a neuro-affirming model, these questions are met with curiosity, compassion and a non-stigmatising lens. The goal is not to pathologise difference, but to explore how someone makes sense of and navigates the world.

Comprehensive Assessment

Formal identification is typically carried out by:

  • A paediatrician or psychiatrist

  • A clinical psychologist

  • Or a team including a general psychologist and speech pathologist

A neurodiversity-affirming assessment:

  • Is strengths-based, not deficit-focused

  • Recognises communication preferences and sensory needs

  • Values individual narratives and lived experience

  • Aims to understand both support needs and capabilities

A Collaborative and Respectful Process

The individual’s voice should be central throughout the process, not just “included.” A collaborative approach ensures that:

  • Families and support networks are listened to

  • Professionals avoid assumptions and ask meaningful, respectful questions

  • The individual feels safe, heard and involved

Using Affirming Assessment Tools

While formal diagnostic criteria are still required, many practitioners are choosing tools that respect neurodivergent identity and avoid pathologising language. One such tool is the MIGDAS-2, which incorporates narrative-style interviews and sensory profiles to build a holistic picture of the individual.

Sharing the Identification

Sharing an Autism identification should be done with clarity and care. The language used should:

  • Emphasise that being Autistic is valid — not a problem to solve

  • Focus on what the identification enables (e.g. self-understanding, access to supports)

  • Avoid “diagnosis-as-deficit” framing

Post-Identification Support

A neurodiversity-affirming approach doesn’t end at identification — it begins there. The focus should shift to empowerment, community connection and meaningful support.

Personalised Support Plans

Plans should be:

  • Individualised, reflecting strengths, needs and preferences

  • Flexible, adapting to the person’s development and changing context

  • Co-designed wherever possible, including the individual in the planning process

Supporting Self-Advocacy

Autistic people should be supported to:

  • Understand their communication and sensory needs

  • Set boundaries and express preferences

  • Access tools that enable them to make informed decisions in daily life, education or work

Self-advocacy is a skill that builds confidence, agency and autonomy.

Community and Peer Support

Connecting with other Autistic people and neurodivergent communities can offer:

  • A sense of belonging

  • Validation of lived experience

  • Shared knowledge, language and joy

Peer networks often provide support that professionals cannot replicate.

Educating Families and Professionals

Sustainable support comes from informed environments. Families, teachers, healthcare workers and employers should be encouraged to:

  • Learn about neurodiversity and Autistic identity

  • Engage in affirming, inclusive practices

  • Reject deficit thinking and pathologising assumptions

Inclusion begins with education — and that learning is ongoing.

Being Newly Identified as Autistic

Learning that you are Autistic can be a powerful and validating experience — often described by Autistic people as “coming home” to yourself. It can bring a sense of clarity, connection, and relief. But it may also prompt deep self-reflection, questions about identity, and a range of emotions.

This is all part of the process. There is no right or wrong way to feel.

Navigating Relationships

After identification, your relationships may shift. You might reassess long-standing dynamics with family, friends, partners or colleagues. Others may not fully understand Autism — often due to outdated stereotypes or misinformation.

Give yourself permission to set boundaries, seek out people who “get it,” and connect with informed, affirming communities. Your identity doesn’t need to be explained or defended.

Seeking Support and Accommodations

You may choose to explore supports, or you may simply want time and space to process your new understanding. Both are valid.

In Australia, supports might include:

  • Accessing services or funding through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)

  • Finding Autistic-led peer networks or professional supports

  • Asking for reasonable adjustments in education, work, or public life

You don’t need to have all the answers right away. This is your journey.

Discovering Your Autistic Identity

You haven’t become Autistic — you’ve always been Autistic. What’s new is the language and understanding that now frames your experiences.

As you explore this identity, you may begin to reinterpret past events, patterns, or challenges through a new and more compassionate lens. Learning about Autism from other Autistic people — not just professionals — can foster deep self-recognition and pride.

Disclosing Your Autistic Identity

Disclosure is personal. You don’t owe anyone your story — and there’s no pressure to disclose at all.

If you do choose to share your Autistic identity, know that reactions can vary. Some people may not respond as you hope. Others will surprise you with support, understanding, or curiosity.

Surround yourself with people who respect your boundaries, affirm your identity, and walk alongside you — not ahead of you.

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

It’s common for newly identified Autistic people to feel doubt. You might wonder:

  • “Am I Autistic enough?”

  • “What if I’ve misunderstood?”

  • “Why didn’t I know sooner?”

These feelings are real — but they don’t make your identity any less valid. Autism is a spectrum. You don’t need to meet someone else’s expectations to belong here. You already do.

Why a Neurodiversity-Affirming Perspective Matters

A neurodiversity-affirming approach shifts the narrative from “What’s wrong?” to “What’s different, and how can we support it?”

It celebrates Autistic traits, rather than trying to mask or erase them. It recognises that Autistic identity is not a problem to be fixed — it’s a difference to be understood, respected and embraced.

By adopting this perspective, we move closer to a society where every individual — regardless of neurology — has equal access to dignity, opportunity, and pride.