Adult Autism Assessment Process with Wirtz Mindful Psychiatry & Wellness (18+)

Do you feel like you’ve always been different but aren’t quite sure why? Whether you struggle with social interactions (beyond anxiety), experience sensory sensitivities, have a strong need for routine, or simply feel out of sync with the world around you — you’re not alone. If you’re wondering whether you might be autistic or otherwise neurodivergent, you’re in the right place.

My approach to adult autism assessment is empowering and grounded in a neurodiversity-affirming perspective. I am committed to supporting you in understanding how your brain works, recognizing your unique strengths and needs, and exploring your questions in a compassionate, supportive space.

If you are Autistic, you have always been Autistic — whether or not that identity has ever been formally recognized. You are the expert on your internal and lived experience. Depending on your goals and needs (such as self-identification or formal diagnosis), the process can range from two to four appointments.

Step 1: Initial Contact

• Complete the brief form on the Contact page and be sure to indicate your interest in an autism assessment.

Step 2: Patient Portal & Intake Paperwork

• You will be invited to join our secure patient portal, where you will then complete consent forms and intake paperwork electronically and submit them prior to your first appointment.

Step 3: Appointment #1 - Psychiatric Evaluation

• This initial 60 minute appointment is designed to establish care and conduct a psychiatric evaluation to carefully consider differential diagnoses to ensure an accurate assessment.

  • Covered by in-network insurance or $300 self-pay

Step 4: Complete Autism Assessment Screenings

• You will complete several questionnaires on your own electronically and submit them prior to your second appointment.

Step 5: Appointment #2 - Ongoing Evaluation and Review of Screeners

• During this 60 minute appointment, we will review your questionnaire results and discuss your experiences leading up to thus point. We will explore the concepts of self-identification versus formal diagnosis, and potential benefits and risks of each, helping you decide which path best aligns with your goals.

  • Covered by in-network insurance or $300 self-pay

• If you decide that a formal diagnosis does not align with your goals, you are welcome to conclude the process at this point.

Step 6: Appointment #3 - Formal Autism Evaluation

• This 2-2.5 hour session involves an in-depth conversation about your history, behaviors, and experiences utilizing two standardized evaluations - the MIGDAS-2 and SRS-2 - to determine if you meet the DSM-V-TR diagnostic criteria. I have been trained by Marilyn J. Monteiro, PhD, the creator of the MIGDAS-2. Includes a formal written report detailing the evaluation findings.

  • $1,100 self-pay. Due to insurance limitations, this appointment is self-pay only and cannot be billed to insurance. Cost includes a formal written report detailing the evaluation findings.

Step 7: Appointment #4 - Feedback Session

• A 50-60 minute session to review your evaluation results, process your assessment experience, and explore resources.

  • Covered by in-network insurance or $200 self-pay.

Please note: If you require formal accommodations (e.g., IEPs, 504 Plans), disability benefits, or legal documentation, you may be referred to a clinical psychologist for comprehensive neuropsychological testing (e.g., including IQ testing, academic testing) as these typically require the highest burden of proof. Diagnosing