Autism Testing for Adults

Get Diagnosed

Our comprehensive testing services can help you answer this question with confidence.

Overview of the Testing Process

Step One: The Consultation

Once you speak with our care-coordinator and feel comfortable getting started, you will be scheduled for your consultation with the testing specialist. Consultations are conducted through a convenient and private video session. If you and the testing specialist agree you are the right fit for the full testing process, you will then move forward with the next phase.

Step Two: The Evaluation and Assessment

During this process you will meet with the clinical neuropsychologist you have been matched with, either through telehealth video sessions or in-person at our San Francisco office. The full process varies in the amount of time it takes to complete depending on the complexity of testing that needs to be done. This will be discussed during the consultation, so you will have a better understanding of how long it will take to get an accurate and valid diagnosis. Total testing time is 10-12 hours for most individuals. It consists of a clinical interview, a battery of forms and tests, and collateral interviews. Once all testing and data gathering is complete, the clinician integrates this information into a comprehensive evaluation which includes diagnosis and treatment recommendations. This thorough process is considered the gold standard for diagnosing adult Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Step Three: The Feedback Session

After completing the consultation and testing process for autism, you will have a final feedback session with your clinician. In this session, they will review any diagnosis they have come up with, help you understand their reasoning, and answer any questions you have about your results. They will recommend next steps, such as working with another care provider or therapist, and give you a better understanding of how this affects your day to day life. You will leave the testing process with a better understanding of your experience and what to do about it.

Why comprehensive testing for Autism Spectrum Disorder?

If you want to seek out the most useful treatment and resources, you need to accurately diagnose the problem.


This can be difficult with Autism Spectrum Disorder. While there are questionnaires and other informal measures, these don’t deliver a high degree of confidence and reliability. When the picture is more complicated, it requires a skilled and knowledgeable expert to provide an accurate diagnosis.


An accurate diagnosis will allow you to better understand why you are the way you are, and identify resources to help you excel.

Meet our testing specialists

Adult Autism Testing Frequently Asked Questions

High-functioning autism typically refers to individuals on the autism spectrum who have average or above-average intelligence and language skills but still experience challenges in social interaction, communication, or sensory processing. A comprehensive evaluation can clarify how these traits affect daily life and relationships.

You may want to consider testing if you notice lifelong difficulties with social connections, sensory sensitivities, or rigid routines, or if you have experienced chronic anxiety related to social situations. Adults who were never evaluated as children often find testing helpful when these patterns affect work, relationships, or mental health.

While the core assessment steps are similar, evaluations for high-functioning adults place more emphasis on subtle communication patterns, executive functioning, and the ability to adapt socially. The process includes an in-depth history to understand how early life experiences and coping strategies influence current challenges.

Yes. Many high-functioning adults spend years “masking,” or consciously hiding autistic traits to fit in socially. This can lead to stress, anxiety, and burnout. A professional assessment can help you understand these experiences, reduce self-blame, and develop healthier coping strategies.

You will get a detailed written report with your diagnosis and specific guidance on next steps. This may include therapy, coaching, social skills training, or workplace accommodations. Your clinician will discuss these resources in the final feedback session to ensure you know how to put them into action.

Absolutely. A formal diagnosis can provide the documentation needed to request accommodations such as flexible schedules, quiet workspaces, or support with communication strategies. These adjustments can improve productivity and reduce stress.

Yes. Many high-functioning adults experience anxiety, depression, or ADHD alongside autism. Comprehensive testing at SF Stress & Anxiety Center screens for these co-occurring conditions to ensure that treatment recommendations address the whole picture.

Yes. SF Stress & Anxiety Center follows rigorous standards for telehealth assessments. Secure video sessions and carefully designed testing protocols maintain the accuracy and reliability of results, whether you complete the process online or in person.

It is common for adults to seek a second opinion if earlier evaluations felt incomplete or if their life circumstances have changed. A comprehensive assessment can clarify your diagnosis and provide updated recommendations based on your current needs.

Gather any previous assessments, school records, or relevant medical history. Think about your personal experiences with social situations, communication, and daily routines. Sharing these details during the consultation will help your clinician tailor the evaluation to your concerns.

MENTAL HEALTH EXPERTS IN THE BAY AREA

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Video & Phone Sessions

Video and phone sessions are a convenient solution for people who can’t find a specialist in their area or would rather not drive across town to an appointment. Research has proven that remote and in-person sessions are equally effective.

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