Adult Autism (ASD) Assessment

Why adults seek an Autism assessment

• Long-standing feelings of being different or misunderstood
• Social situations that feel confusing or draining
• Exhaustion from "masking", or working hard to fit in
• Strong preferences for routine, or distress when plans change
• Sensory sensitivities to sound, light, textures or crowds
• Deep, focused interests
• A child or relative's Autism diagnosis prompting questions

What the assessment involves

Dr. Kerris gathers a detailed picture of your development and life experiences through clinical interviews and standardized questionnaires about social communication, sensory experiences, interests and daily living. With your permission, a parent, sibling or partner may share what they've observed, including what you were like as a child if they knew you then; this is helpful but not always possible.

Autism often occurs alongside ADHD, anxiety or depression, and some of these can look similar, so the assessment considers them as well. Everything is done virtually, which many adults find more comfortable than a clinic setting.

Results and recommendations

In a feedback session, Dr. Kerris explains her findings, including whether a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder applies, and talks through what they mean for you. Your written report includes recommendations for daily life, relationships, work or school, and can support requests for accommodations. Many adults describe the process as a chance to finally make sense of their own story and treat themselves with more compassion.

Why Choose a Comprehensive Assessment Rather Than an Online Quiz?

Online ADHD and Autism quizzes or screening questionnaires can be useful starting points, but they cannot officially establish a diagnosis.

A comprehensive assessment by a psychologist goes further by examining developmental history, current functioning, strengths, challenges, and the possible influence of other psychological, medical, or environmental factors.

This means that, rather than relying on a single questionnaire score, Dr. Kerris integrates information from multiple sources using professional clinical judgment.

The goal isn't simply to determine whether someone meets diagnostic criteria. It's to develop a meaningful clinical picture that can guide appropriate recommendations and next steps.

About Dr. Kerris Oates

Assessments are provided by Dr. Kerris Oates, Ph.D., C.Psych., a Registered Psychologist with the College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario since 2008. She has worked in private practice, multidisciplinary medical clinics, educational settings and specialized mental health programs, and is an Assistant Clinical Professor at McMaster University's Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine. Her approach is warm, collaborative, culturally responsive and strengths-based.