Choosing to seek an autism evaluation is a meaningful step toward greater self-understanding, personal growth, and access to essential resources. For individuals who notice persistent challenges with social communication, sensory sensitivities, repetitive behaviors, or differences in learning and interaction, obtaining an autism evaluation can be life-changing. Often, people live for years without realizing that the struggles they face could be explained by autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and an evaluation offers clarity, validation, and direction.
For adults, an accurate diagnosis—even later in life—can foster a sense of acceptance, reduce self-doubt, and guide future decisions.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that affects how individuals perceive the world, interact with others, and communicate. The symptoms of ASD can vary widely but generally fall into two main categories: challenges with social communication and interaction, and restricted or repetitive behaviors and interests.
The symptoms of ASD can be mild or more pronounced, and every individual is unique. Early recognition and support can make an important difference in development and functioning.
Common Symptoms May Include:
- Difficulty with Social Communication.
- Challenges in understanding or interpreting social cues, such as facial expressions, tone of voice, and gestures.
- Difficulty in developing or maintaining friendships.
- Limited use of eye contact or facial expressions.
- Trouble with back-and-forth conversations or sharing interests and emotions.
- Unusual or limited verbal communication, or delayed speech development.
Meet your Evaluator – Dr. Dan Tomczyk, Ph.D.
Dr. Tomczyk, since joining Emmaus in 2017, has employed a range of approaches—including person-centered, existential, cognitive-behavioral, trauma-focused, narrative, and dynamic/object relations therapies—to customize treatment for individual client needs. He emphasizes authenticity, unconditional positive regard, and empathy, viewing therapy as a collaborative partnership that fosters self-awareness and personal growth.
Evaluation Process
The ASD evaluation consists of three virtual sessions over three weeks, scheduled on Mondays, with additional testing to be completed independently. After the evaluation is completed, Dr. Tomczyk will prepare a report that summarizes the results, and any diagnoses including recommendations.
Please note: we do not prescribe medication.
Getting Started
If you suspect that ASD may be impacting you or someone close to you, please contact our Care Coordinators at 425.869.2644, ext. 0 for comprehensive guidance through the evaluation process.
Ongoing Support
The relationship with Emmaus does not end when the evaluation is complete. We offer ongoing therapeutic support to help clients implement recommendations and continue their personal development by working with one of our ASD experienced therapists. Whether the ASD evaluation is a one-time need or the beginning of a longer journey, we are here to provide guidance and encouragement each step of the way.
Online Resources
- Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD). Provides evidence-based education and practical resources regarding adult ADHD, executive functioning, treatment, relationships, and daily functioning.
- Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA). Provides education and resources specifically for adults with ADHD, including information about executive functioning, workplace concerns, relationships, and strategies for daily life.
- Understood.org. Provides accessible information and practical strategies related to ADHD, executive
functioning, attention, working memory, organization, and related learning differences - Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN). Provides resources developed by and for autistic people regarding self-advocacy, autonomy, accommodations, disability rights, and neurodiversity. These materials may be particularly useful as Joseph develops a clearer understanding of which forms of assistance are genuinely helpful to him while continuing to build independence.
- Job Accommodation Network (JAN). Provides practical information regarding workplace accommodations. This resource may become particularly useful as Joseph completes his software-development education and begins considering employment environments, communication demands, sensory needs, and accommodations that may allow him to use his technical strengths most effectively.