Why Getting an Autism Diagnosis Is Harder Than It Should Be

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This episode dives into one of the most frustrating realities facing the neurodivergent community: getting an autism diagnosis is harder than it should be — and that's not an accident.

We explore the flaws of the ADOS assessment, the financial and systemic incentives that drive gatekeeping, and the lack of adequate training among professionals evaluating adults. Maria and Tabitha also discuss why self-diagnosis and community-based knowledge are not only valid but vital, and what meaningful advocacy for change looks like.

Key topics covered:

• Systemic barriers in autism diagnosis
• Critique of the ADOS and its limitations
• Financial incentives behind diagnostic gatekeeping
• Neurodiversity beyond standard testing
• Advocacy for broader access to evaluations

🌸 We're joining this year's #Podcasthon and proudly supporting the Paperflower Foundation, which works to bridge mental health access gaps for underserved Arizonans.

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Websites:
www.paperflowerpsychiatry.com
www.paperflowerinstitute.com
www.courses.paperflowerinstitute.com