Autism (ASD) Testing & Evaluations
Autism (ASD) Testing & Evaluations
Precise Autism (ASD) Testing & Evaluations in Davidson, NC
Have you spent your life feeling like everyone else received a social instruction manual that you somehow missed? Do you find yourself constantly exhausted from studying how other people act just so you can blend in? Perhaps you have always felt a profound, almost overwhelming connection to your specific interests, or you find the sensory environment of the modern world completely draining.
For many individuals—especially those who are high-masking—Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) goes unrecognized for decades. You may have been misdiagnosed with severe anxiety, or simply labeled as “quirky,” “shy,” or “highly sensitive.”
At Wildflower Psychotherapy & Assessment, PLLC, we provide precise, neurodivergent-affirming Autism testing and evaluations for teens (ages 11 and up) and adults. Located in Davidson, NC, and providing secure telehealth evaluations for residents of Missouri and Florida, we are here to help you translate your unique experiences into clarity.
An Autism evaluation at Wildflower is not about finding out what is “wrong” with you. It is a deeply validating gateway to self-discovery, allowing you to finally understand your brain’s unique operating system and build a life that honors your authentic self.
A Neurodivergent-Affirming Approach to Autism Testing
Historically, the medical model has viewed Autism through a lens of deficits—focusing entirely on what an Autistic person struggles to do compared to their neurotypical peers. We reject this outdated, pathologizing framework.
At Wildflower, led by Karrah Wood, MS, LPC, our practice is rooted in a neurodivergent-affirming philosophy. We understand that Autism is a natural variance in human neurology. While it undeniably presents significant challenges in a world designed by and for neurotypical people, it also comes with a rich tapestry of strengths. During your evaluation, we actively look for and celebrate these strengths—whether it is your deep capacity for empathy, your passionate focus on special interests, your profound attention to detail, or your refreshing honesty.
Our precise assessment process combines gold-standard psychological tools with in-depth clinical interviews to unravel the complexities of your lived experience. We look beyond the surface behaviors to understand your internal world, ensuring that you feel seen, respected, and empowered throughout the entire journey.
Signs You Might Benefit from an Adult or Teen Autism Evaluation
Because early Autism research focused almost exclusively on young boys with visible behavioral challenges, a massive demographic of Autistic individuals slipped under the radar. Today, we know that Autism looks incredibly diverse, particularly in women, non-binary individuals, and high-masking adults.
You or your teenager might benefit from a comprehensive Autism evaluation if you resonate with the following experiences:
- Social Camouflaging (Masking): Consciously mimicking the body language, tone, or expressions of others to fit in, which leads to severe social hangover or "burnout" after interactions.
- Sensory Sensitivities: Experiencing physical distress from bright lights, specific textures, loud or layered noises (like a crowded restaurant), or certain smells. Conversely, you might also be sensory-seeking (needing deep pressure, specific movements, or loud music to self-soothe).
- Deep, Passionate Interests: Developing intense, joyful hyper-fixations on specific topics, hobbies, or systems, and finding immense comfort in immersing yourself in them.
- Preference for Routine: Feeling significant anxiety or distress when plans change unexpectedly, and finding deep comfort and regulation in predictability and order.
- Communication Differences: Struggling to read "between the lines," preferring direct and literal communication, or finding the unwritten rules of neurotypical socializing confusing and exhausting.
- Executive Functioning Challenges: Experiencing difficulties with task initiation, managing daily energy levels, or organizing complex life demands.
What Our Autism Testing Process Looks Like
Free Initial Consultation
We start with a complimentary consultation. This is a brief, no-pressure opportunity for us to connect, discuss your reasons for seeking an evaluation, and ensure our affirming approach aligns with what you are looking for.
Comprehensive Intake Session
If you choose to move forward, we schedule a detailed intake interview. Whether in our Davidson office or via our virtual platform, we will explore your developmental history, childhood experiences, and current day-to-day challenges. We want to hear your story in your own words.
The Testing Sessions (2 to 3 Visits)
The core of our evaluation takes place over 2 to 3 dedicated sessions. We use specialized, modern assessments designed to capture the nuanced presentation of Autism in older teens and adults. Because neurodivergent conditions frequently overlap, our testing is highly comprehensive. We automatically screen for co-occurring conditions like ADHD, anxiety, depression, and trauma. We look at the whole person, not just a single diagnostic criteria.
Feedback Session & Your Personalized Roadmap
After carefully scoring your assessments and writing your customized report, we meet for a collaborative feedback session. We will break down your results clearly, answer all of your questions, and provide a tailored roadmap for your future. You will leave with actionable strategies, accommodations you can request at school or work, and resources designed to help you navigate a neurotypical world while honoring your Autistic identity.
Transparent Pricing & Investment
Navigating the healthcare system shouldn’t require exhausting guesswork. We provide upfront, transparent pricing so you know exactly what to expect.
Our comprehensive ADHD Evaluation is a flat rate of $1,200.
This investment covers the entirety of your evaluation journey:
- The comprehensive 1-hour intake interview.
- 2 to 3 structured testing sessions.
- Complete scoring, clinical interpretation, and the writing of your extensive, personalized diagnostic report.
- A detailed feedback session to discuss your results and your holistic care plan.
Virtual Autism Evaluations for Missouri & Florida Residents
For many Autistic individuals, traveling to a new clinic, sitting in a waiting room, and navigating unfamiliar sensory environments can trigger overwhelming anxiety before the testing even begins.
To remove these barriers, Wildflower Psychotherapy & Assessment offers secure, fully virtual Autism evaluations for residents of Missouri and Florida.
Conducted via a HIPAA-compliant telehealth platform, our virtual evaluations maintain the exact same rigor and accuracy as our in-person testing. By allowing you to participate from the sensory safety of your own home—where you have access to your own comfort items, preferred lighting, and safe seating—we can often achieve a more authentic, relaxed, and accurate assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Autism Evaluations
Absolutely. While some individuals are comfortable with self-diagnosis, a formal evaluation provides profound, objective validation that can relieve decades of internalized shame. Practically, a formal diagnosis provides access to workplace or university accommodations (under the ADA), specialized therapeutic support, and a clearer understanding of your specific sensory and energetic boundaries.
Our expertise is focused on older children, teens, and adults. We provide comprehensive evaluations for individuals ages 11 and up. If you are seeking an evaluation for a toddler or younger child, we recommend seeking a pediatric neuropsychologist or a specialized developmental pediatrician.
No. A diagnosis does not change your identity; it simply gives you the correct instruction manual for the brain you have always had. It is a tool for self-advocacy and self-compassion.
Wildflower Psychotherapy & Assessment is an out-of-network provider. This prevents insurance companies from dictating the length, depth, or methods of our testing, allowing us to provide truly personalized care. We can provide you with a detailed “Superbill” to submit to your insurance company for potential out-of-network reimbursement.