Published on 12, July, 2020
Hi all
I am a 64 years old male. I have self - diagnosed as autistic on the strength of some Youtube videos I watched recently. I have a previous diagnosis of ADD from about 25 years ago (private), this was refuted by Maudsley about 15 years ago because I don't apparently respond appropriately to methylphenidate... I tried the drug again a couple of years ago but it didn't end well.
My questions revolve around diagnosis and help.
Are there reputable online tests for autism that I could take to have a better picture of where I am with this.
I am based on the coast between Brighton and Eastbourne, could anyone recomend a therapist? I would dearly like to gain some sort of perspective on what to do about this 'diagnosis' - or if the diagnosis is inapropriate then some guidance generally.
Not looking for sympathy here just a grown up perspective.
Thanks in advance
Paul
Hi Paul,
Welcome to the community. That sounds like a disorientating experience with the ADD diagnosis and refutal... For online Autism tests the AQ (Autism Quotient) is one of the most commonly used in diagnostic assessments. The Embrace Autism website also has lots of others, some of which take into account masking and other autistic experiences not always considered in mainstream, neurocentric assessment processes.
The Neurodivergent Therapists Directory is where I found my therapist, great range of practitioners there in different regions and with different presentations and specialisms.
I hope you find what you're looking for, and in the meantime (as well as afterwards) that this community can be a welcoming space for exploration too.
Hi Sphynx
Thanks for your input. I will take a look at the Embrace Autism website.
Regards