Is ASD doctor-led or patient-led?

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Hi Retro - I think you have raised a very interesting idea, which I have never come across before. If you don't mind, I'm going to start a new thread on the topic. Not just now though, I have to go shopping!

I would think that the majority of adult diagnoses are patient-led. My story is below.

About a month after learning about Aspergers (at age 49), I discussed my suspicions with an uncle (who is a mental health professional). He referred me to a therapist. I met with that therapist once, for a one hour session. Following that session the therapist suggested a psychological evaluation plus a psychiatric medication evaluation.

Shortly thereafter, I had the psychological evaluation (and was diagnosed). I am not planning (at least for now) to pursue a psychiatric medication evaluation.

So, this was patient-led (as my discussion with my uncle started a process for me to see a therapist and later a Psychologist).

As a note, I underwent therapy multiple times as a youth (this was before Aspergers was a diagnosis). This therapy was parent-led (though, my pediatrician recommended a Psychologist to my parents).