Understanding Autism: What It Is and Why an Autism Evaluation Can Help
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by differences in two core areas:
Social communication and interaction, and
Restricted or repetitive interests, behaviors, or activities (RRBs)
These traits are present from early development, even if they are not always recognized right away. Autism can affect daily life across multiple settings, including home, school, work, and relationships. Because autism exists on a broad and diverse spectrum, no two autistic individuals are the same. Each person has a unique profile of strengths, challenges, and support needs.
Autism Is Diverse — and So Are the People Who Experience It
Despite outdated stereotypes or misinformation that still appear in the media, many individuals with autism live rich, independent, and fulfilling lives. Autistic people may attend college, build successful careers, date, marry, raise families, create art and music, excel in academics or STEM fields, play sports, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
At the same time, some individuals with autism benefit from more consistent support, structure, or accommodations in their daily lives. Both experiences are valid. Autism is not a single story, and every autistic person deserves respect, dignity, and individualized support.
Why an Autism Evaluation Matters
Living in a world designed around neurotypical expectations can be exhausting and confusing for many neurodivergent individuals. An autism evaluation can provide clarity, validation, and a roadmap for support.
A comprehensive autism assessment may be helpful for:
Young children showing early differences in communication, play, or social engagement
School-aged children struggling socially, emotionally, or behaviorally despite strong cognitive abilities
Teenagers who appear “high functioning” but feel overwhelmed, anxious, burned out, or misunderstood
Young adults who have long suspected they may be autistic and want answers
Families who want guidance on how to best support their child’s development and well-being
Many individuals—especially girls, women, and people from marginalized backgrounds—learn to mask their autistic traits to fit in socially. While masking can help someone navigate expectations, it often comes at a significant emotional cost, contributing to anxiety, depression, or burnout. An accurate diagnosis can be an important step toward self-understanding and self-compassion.
Benefits of an Autism Diagnosis at Any Age
Receiving an autism diagnosis is not about labeling—it’s about understanding. At any stage of life, a well-conducted evaluation can open doors to meaningful support and resources, including:
School accommodations (IEPs, 504 plans, academic supports)
College or workplace accommodations
Therapy tailored to individual needs
Improved self-understanding and self-advocacy
Connection to neurodivergent-affirming communities
Guidance for parents and caregivers
For many people, diagnosis brings relief. It helps explain long-standing challenges and reframes them through a neurodiversity-affirming lens rather than one of personal failure.
Autism Strengths and the Importance of Affirming Support
Autism is often associated with meaningful strengths, such as deep focus, honesty, creativity, strong memory, pattern recognition, analytical thinking, and unique problem-solving abilities. When these strengths are recognized and supported—rather than suppressed—individuals with autism can thrive.
However, sensory sensitivities, communication differences, executive functioning challenges, and social expectations can still make daily life difficult without appropriate understanding and accommodations. Working with clinicians who are knowledgeable about autism and committed to affirming, respectful care can make a significant difference in quality of life.
A Note on Language
Language preferences vary within the autism community. Some individuals prefer identity-first language (“autistic person”), viewing autism as an integral part of who they are. Others prefer person-first language (“person with autism”). Both preferences are valid. The most respectful approach is always to ask and honor each individual’s choice.
Interested in Autism Testing in Richmond, VA?
If you are wondering whether you or your child may have autism, or if you are seeking a comprehensive autism evaluation in the Richmond, VA area, I am here to help.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who provides evidence-based autism assessments for children, adolescents, and adults. Evaluations are individualized, thorough, and designed to answer your specific questions—whether that involves diagnostic clarity, recommendations for support, or documentation for accommodations.
If you have questions about autism testing, the assessment process, or whether an evaluation is the right next step, I welcome you to reach out. I am happy to talk with you and help you decide what makes the most sense for you or your family.
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
📧 JHerbst@richmondfamilypsychology.com
📞 804-214-6416
🌐 Richmond Family Psychology
