Any tips for getting tested?

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I live in NYC, and I've been wanting to get tested, so I know either way for a while. All the therapists I can afford are kind of hacks, and the centers that specialize in spectrum testing charge something in the realm of $2000. Does anyone have any suggestions for a place to go to get tested?

I'm not exactly rich :/

- oh and this is my first post - hey everybody!

hyia there.

I'd say something helpful, but... wow... 2000 clams is a lot of money. there would surely be a place that'll test you for free, wherever you are? shouldn't you?

If it helps you to identify yourself as AS, go ahead. If it doesn't, don't bother.

In general I don't know that an "official" diagnosis is worthwhile. Diagnostics isn't a science, more like an "art." The autism spectrum is a broad continuum with many shades of gray. It's not likely that "am I or aren't I?" is a valid question in the first place.

On the other hand, a diagnosis may help if you're applying for social security benefits or if you have a long history of psychiatric hospitalizations or other serious problems relating to comorbid conditions. My diagnosis is "convenient" because it means care providers have a better sense of "where I'm coming from" and how to handle me. That can be worth $2000.