Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Evaluations for Teens and Adults
Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects social communication, behavior, and sensory processing. Because it is a spectrum, autism can present in many different ways—some individuals may have subtle challenges that were overlooked in childhood, while others may have more noticeable daily struggles.
Today, the term ASD brings together several conditions that were once considered separate, including:
- Asperger’s Syndrome
- Pervasive Developmental Disorder–Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS)
- Childhood Disintegrative Disorder
- Autistic Disorder
For many, these experiences can feel isolating or confusing. An autism evaluation in Hillsboro can bring relief and understanding by showing that there is a name for these struggles—and that support and strategies are available.
Why Seek an Autism Evaluation?
Many teens and adults with autism were misdiagnosed or overlooked in childhood—especially women, nonbinary individuals, and those who learned to mask their traits. Without a clear diagnosis, people may spend years feeling misunderstood or wondering why certain parts of life—relationships, school, work—feel harder than expected.
An autism assessment for adolescents or adults in Hillsboro can help by:
- Clarifying whether ASD explains lifelong challenges
- Highlighting strengths as well as areas for support
- Opening access to school or workplace accommodations
- Guiding therapy, coaching, or life skills training
- Providing relief, self-understanding, and a sense of belonging
What to Expect in the Evaluation Process
At Still Waters Counseling LLC, our autism assessments for adolescents and adults are comprehensive and compassionate. Evaluations may include:
- A detailed clinical interview exploring developmental history, strengths, and challenges
- Standardized questionnaires and self-report tools tailored for teens and adults
- Cognitive testing to rule out intellectual disability and clarify learning strengths and weaknesses
- Behavioral observations during the evaluation process
- When helpful, input from parents, caregivers, or close friends who know you well
- A feedback session that explains results clearly, with compassionate recommendations for next steps
Our goal is not only to provide a diagnosis (when appropriate) but to give you practical tools, resources, and hope for moving forward.
Life After an Autism Diagnosis
An evaluation is the beginning—not the end—of the journey. Many adolescents and adults find a diagnosis empowering, offering new language for self-understanding and access to meaningful support.
After diagnosis, people often benefit from:
- Therapy and counseling to support emotional well-being, manage anxiety or depression, and reduce the stress of masking
- Skill-building strategies for executive functioning, time management, and social communication
- School or workplace accommodations to create environments where neurodivergent individuals can thrive
- Community resources and support groups that celebrate neurodiversity and reduce isolation
With the right supports, many teens and adults on the spectrum build confidence, improve relationships, and live more authentic, fulfilling lives.
Schedule an Autism Evaluation in Hillsboro
If you or your teen may be on the autism spectrum, you don’t have to navigate this alone. Getting an autism evaluation for adolescents or adults in Hillsboro, Oregon can provide answers, validation, and a roadmap for support.
Contact Still Waters Counseling LLC today to schedule an appointment or connect with us through our secure online form. Together, we’ll take the first step toward understanding, growth, and greater well-being.
Sources
- Lord, C., Elsabbagh, M., Baird, G., & Veenstra-VanderWeele, J. (2018). Autism spectrum disorder. The Lancet, 392(10146), 508-520.
- National Institute of Mental Health. (2023). Autism spectrum disorder.
- Autism Society: Understanding Autism
