Adult Autism Diagnosis: Signs You Might Be Autistic and What the Process Involves

Could you be autistic and not know it? In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, Dr Marianne Trent is joined by clinical psychologist and autism specialist Dr Katie Adolphus to unpack what adult autism diagnosis really involves.

They explore the signs that may be missed in childhood, why women and marginalised groups often go undiagnosed, and what the formal assessment process looks like. You’ll also hear about sensory sensitivities, emotional overwhelm, autistic identity, and how to seek support post-diagnosis.

Whether you're an aspiring psychologist, a clinician supporting clients, or exploring your own neurodivergent identity this episode is packed with insight, compassion, and clarity.

Highlights:

• 00:00 – Welcome and introduction to Dr Katie Adolphus
• 02:35 – Why some autistic people go undiagnosed in childhood
• 05:15 – Stereotypes and barriers in accessing diagnosis as an adult
• 08:58 – How autism traits may show up differently in women and marginalised groups
• 11:40 – The emotional process of realising you might be autistic
• 13:50 – What a formal diagnostic assessment for autism involves
• 17:22 – The difference between self-diagnosis and formal diagnosis
• 20:10 – Dr Adolphus’s own experiences with autistic identity
• 24:35 – How sensory sensitivities can manifest in adulthood
• 28:10 – Intersectionality: autism and other neurodivergent conditions
• 31:42 – Workplace challenges and late-diagnosed adults
• 35:15 – What happens after an autism diagnosis
• 38:25 – Misconceptions about autism and ‘functioning labels’
• 41:10 – How allies, friends, and clinicians can offer better support
• 44:45 – Final reflections and how to follow Dr Katie Adolphus

Links:

📲 Connect with Dr Katie Adolphus here: http://theadolphuspractice.co.uk https://www.facebook.com/theadolphuspractice

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📚 To check out The Clinical Psychologist Collective Book: https://amzn.to/3jOplx0

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💡 To check out or join the aspiring psychologist membership for just £30 per month head to: https://www.goodthinkingpsychology.co.uk/membership-interested

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📱Connect socially with Marianne and check out ways to work with her, including the Aspiring Psychologist Book, Clinical Psychologist book and The Aspiring Psychologist Membership on her Link tree: https://linktr.ee/drmariannetrent

💬 To join my free Facebook group and discuss your thoughts on this episode and more: https://www.facebook.com/groups/aspiringpsychologistcommunity

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