Evidence-Based Autism Assessments for Adults in Hartford, Danbury, and Across Connecticut

Thoughtful, Evidence-Based Assessments for Adults Seeking Clarity

Many adults move through life sensing that something about how they think, feel, and interact with the world is different—yet never receive a clear explanation. For years, autism was primarily identified in children, leaving many adults undiagnosed, misunderstood, or misdiagnosed.

At SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services, we provide comprehensive autism evaluations for adults using validated clinical tools and a respectful, person-centered approach. Our evaluations are designed to offer understanding, not judgment—clarity, not labels.

Understanding Autism in Adulthood

Autism in adults can look very different from childhood presentations. Many adults have learned to adapt, mask symptoms, or overcompensate socially and professionally. While this can lead to success, it often comes at the cost of chronic exhaustion, anxiety, burnout, or feeling disconnected from others.

An adult autism evaluation explores lifelong patterns of:

• Social communication and interaction
• Sensory processing and regulation
• Emotional awareness and stress response
• Routines, structure, and adaptability
• Cognitive and behavioral functioning

This process helps connect the dots across your life experiences.

Our Assessment Approach: Clinical, Comprehensive, and Respectful

Our adult autism evaluations are grounded in best practices and current clinical standards. Each evaluation is individualized and may include:

• A detailed clinical and developmental interview
• Review of personal, educational, and mental health history
• Behavioral observations
• Screening for overlapping conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, or trauma
• Use of standardized assessment tools, including the ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition)

Why We Use the ADOS-2

The ADOS-2 is a gold-standard, evidence-based assessment tool used internationally to support autism diagnosis. When used appropriately with adults, it provides structured observations that help clinicians understand communication styles, social interaction, and behavioral patterns associated with autism.

ADOS-2 results are never used in isolation. They are thoughtfully integrated with clinical judgment and your lived experience to ensure an accurate and meaningful evaluation.

What You Receive After the Evaluation

Following the assessment process, you will receive:

• A clear diagnostic explanation
• A comprehensive written evaluation report
• Clinical recommendations tailored to your needs
• Guidance for therapy, workplace or academic accommodations, and next steps
• Resources to help guide your next steps in your journey. 

We take time to review results with you so that you fully understand the findings and how to use them moving forward.

Other Evidence-Based Assessment Tools for Accurate Adult Autism Diagnosis

An accurate autism evaluation requires more than a single measure. At SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services, we use a combination of evidence-based assessment tools to ensure diagnostic clarity and clinical accuracy.

Each adult evaluation is comprehensive and individualized. Depending on your history and presenting concerns, the assessment process may include:

• Standardized autism rating scales for adults
• Adaptive functioning assessments
• Social communication measures
• Executive functioning screenings
• Sensory profile assessments
• Screening tools for co-occurring conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, or trauma

These tools are carefully selected based on your specific needs. When combined with a detailed clinical interview and behavioral observations, they provide a well-rounded understanding of how autism traits may present in adulthood.

We do not rely on a single test to determine a diagnosis. Instead, we integrate multiple data points with clinical expertise and your lived experience to reach a thoughtful, accurate conclusion.

This multi-method approach strengthens diagnostic reliability and ensures that recommendations are practical, individualized, and aligned with your goals.

Insurance and Payment Information

We believe access to diagnostic clarity matters.

• HUSKY Insurance
• Medicaid
• Self-Pay options

Our administrative team can help verify benefits and discuss payment options before your evaluation begins.

Serving Adults Across Connecticut

We proudly provide adult autism evaluations for individuals throughout Connecticut. Whether you are seeking answers for personal growth, mental health support, or formal documentation, our team offers a supportive and professional environment to explore this important step.

Adult Autism Evaluations in Hartford, Danbury, and Across Connecticut

We provide autism evaluations for adults in Hartford, Danbury, and throughout the state of Connecticut.

Many adults in urban, suburban, and surrounding communities seek evaluations later in life after years of feeling misunderstood or misdiagnosed. Whether you live in Hartford County, Fairfield County, or elsewhere in Connecticut, our team offers the same thoughtful, evidence-based assessment process.

Clients often come to us from:

• Hartford and surrounding areas
• Danbury and the Greater Danbury region
• Fairfield County
• New Haven County
• Litchfield County
• Middlesex and Tolland Counties

Our goal is to ensure adults across Connecticut have access to accurate autism evaluations using the ADOS-2, delivered with clinical integrity and respect.

What’s the Next Step?

If you are considering an autism evaluation and want to explore whether this process is right for you, the next step is to schedule an intake appointment.

During your intake, you will have the opportunity to speak directly with Soribel Martinez, LCSW to:

• Discuss your concerns, questions, and lived experiences
• Review your history and what prompted you to seek an evaluation
• Determine whether an adult autism evaluation using the ADOS-2 is clinically appropriate
• Review insurance coverage, HUSKY/Medicaid benefits, or self-pay options
• Understand the evaluation process and what to expect moving forward

This intake is a collaborative conversation—not a commitment. It is a space to gain clarity, ask questions, and decide on next steps with professional guidance.

To get started, contact our office to schedule your intake appointment. We are here to support you in making an informed, thoughtful decision about your care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you evaluate adults who were never diagnosed as children?

Yes. Many adults seek evaluations later in life after years of unanswered questions. Adult diagnosis is valid and meaningful.

Do you use the ADOS-2 for adult autism evaluations?

Yes. We use the ADOS-2 as part of a comprehensive assessment when clinically appropriate, alongside interviews and other measures.

Do you accept HUSKY and Medicaid for autism evaluations?

Yes. We accept HUSKY, Medicaid, and also offer self-pay options.

Is an autism evaluation only for people who are struggling?

No. Many adults seeking evaluation are high-functioning and successful but want clarity, self-understanding, or support recommendations.