I posted this on Reddit's /r/aspergers section, but thought that WP might be a good resource too. I checked the WP rules and didn't see anything forbidding asking for doctor recommendations. I sincerely apologize if this runs afoul of any such ordinance.
(Edit: seeking a diagnosis for adult ASD - I'm nearing 30)
I've been aware of AS and the fact that I fit many of its criteria for about 8 years now, ever since it was brought up to me by my mother's (now-)husband. I'd been trying to live as normal as best I could, with the suspicion that I may indeed fit the bill but also with some skepticism ever since I found out that AS is a scapegoat/excuse to a lot of people (who aren't actually on the autism spectrum) to act in an offensive manner and shirk responsibility. I didn't want to self-diagnose outright, but I've informed friends and significant others over the years that "Hey, there's this neurological condition out there, here's what it entails, and people have told me that I fit the profile." Just as a means of trying to facilitate more amicable interaction.
I've finally reached the point where I desire certainty. I saw my PCP last night and he referred me to a couple of psychological professionals he knows, but also recommended in general that I see a neuropsychiatrist (I'm wondering if he meant neuropsychologist, as I see far more listings and categories for the latter than the former) for an evaluation. Alas, two of the three referrals he gave me were not in my health insurance network and the one who was doesn't seem to have any neurological/ASD specialization.
If anyone on this board is or has been in the NW suburban Chicagoland area, can you recommend a good, capable, competent professional from whom to get a diagnosis? United Healthcare (my insurance) lists several neuropsychologists but I'm not really sure who's the best bet, and I don't want to just iterate through the list appointment by appointment for fear of exceeding the maximum limit of my benefits.
Many thanks for any help you can provide.