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G'day

N

nw_oz

Active Member
A couple of years ago my doctor suggested I might have Aspergers. I did a couple of questionairs and found out that I do have Aspergers with some neurotypical traits.

I have since found out that this was not an 'official' diagnosis.

I found a place in Brisbane (Australia) that will do an official assessment and diagnosis but it's going to cost me nearly $1,200. Is it worth the money? Nothing is going to change as a result, other than me being poorer.

To those of you who have had an official diagnosis: is it worth it?
 
Welcome :)

I'm also from Australia, living in Brisbane. I'm still self-diagnosed myself, so haven't experienced the process of a diagnoses, but many will tell you that a diagnoses is usually only needed if you are hoping to receive some kind of benefit from doing so (eg. Government support, educational support, ongoing therapy, etc.). Otherwise, it's generally a personal choice.

Where did you receive your quote for a diagnoses? I've looked up Minds and Hearts in Brisbane, which is supposed to be the best centre in Australia, and wasn't quoted as high as that, though of course I don't know your situation, so am not sure if other factors were taken in to consideration.
 
G'day Vanilla,

I looked at Minds and Hearts and they charge $228 for the pre-diagnostic assessment interview, $456-$912 for the diagnostic assessment, and $228 for the initial consultation.

I'm assuming that all three (the pre-assessment, diagnosis, and consultation) are needed. That's well over $1000 - slightly less if I get the Better Access Plan from my doctor.

I'd like to get properly diagnosed. I've read a lot of stuff on Aspergers and I can relate to most of it. I also have neurotypical traits and I'd like to know what that means - specifically for me. I've kid of blundered through the last 47 years of my life. I'm also considering a change of career and wouldn't mind knowing what my specific strengths and weaknesses are.

I was at my last job for 14 years and was quite good at it, but the job I'm in now is much different and has me interacting with many many more people (coworkers and associates) and I've been struggling with it. My manager is very understanding, but I've never felt so consistently incompetent in my whole life - well ... since I left school that is. :(

I know it takes time to settle into a new environment, new routes, etc. but it's been almost 4 months now and I still feel like the dumbest person in the room.

I guess I'll fork out for the pre-diagnosis assessment and take it from there.

BTW: How did you self-diagnose?
 
nw_oz said:
G'day Vanilla,

I looked at Minds and Hearts and they charge $228 for the pre-diagnostic assessment interview, $456-$912 for the diagnostic assessment, and $228 for the initial consultation.

I'm assuming that all three (the pre-assessment, diagnosis, and consultation) are needed. That's well over $1000 - slightly less if I get the Better Access Plan from my doctor.

I'd like to get properly diagnosed. I've read a lot of stuff on Aspergers and I can relate to most of it. I also have neurotypical traits and I'd like to know what that means - specifically for me. I've kid of blundered through the last 47 years of my life. I'm also considering a change of career and wouldn't mind knowing what my specific strengths and weaknesses are.

I was at my last job for 14 years and was quite good at it, but the job I'm in now is much different and has me interacting with many many more people (coworkers and associates) and I've been struggling with it. My manager is very understanding, but I've never felt so consistently incompetent in my whole life - well ... since I left school that is. :(

I know it takes time to settle into a new environment, new routes, etc. but it's been almost 4 months now and I still feel like the dumbest person in the room.

I guess I'll fork out for the pre-diagnosis assessment and take it from there.

BTW: How did you self-diagnose?
Click to expand...

Oh, I didn't know about the initial appointments, and additional costs. I'll have to ask them again about those. I too want a diagnoses, just to make it official, but have been putting if off due to the high prices.

I stumbled across AS by accident. I was actually watching a TV show, and the topic of autism was brought up. I felt there was something familiar about it, and so looked it up, and was able to make the connections.

I'm sorry to hear you're feeling so down. Just so you know, many of us here have felt incompetent at some point in our lives. For many of us though, we've learned to realise that if we are to compare ourselves to those who are different to us, we may be comparing ourselves with unrealistic expectations. It's like comparing apples to oranges. Having AS usually means that we may think differently to others, and so we shouldn't be comparing ourselves, but accepting the strengths that we do possess. I hope that you are able to feel more confident in yourself, and abilities, one day.
 
What's the point of the actual diagnosis? You'll just need to pay more for med care

Hello and Welcome!! :)
 
Hi, I live in Rockhampton & was unemployed when I was wanting a diagnosis so unable to pay a lot. I saw my doctor who referred me to the acute mental health team at the hospital where I was seen by a psychiatrist who saw me for a couple of hours. He diagnosed me and sent a report to my doctor. The diagnosis is probably not 100% official but it is more then fine for me, my doctor & the government.
 
Welcome to AC nw oz
I am included in the self-diagnosed category and stumbled across autism while researching why my damaged brain was recovering at an amazing rate...as Vanilla posted,it may only be necessary if you are seeking compensation or help...if not,why spend the money?
 
Hi :)

It seems to be a personal thing, different for everybody. For me in the uk it has been free. Though it has taken almost two years to get the diagnosis. Only one interview, but a massive wait on the NHS.

If it would have cost me money to have had it sooner I would have taken it, as it has helped me.

There are so many subtle things that direct us through life that I really believe that knowing is better than not knowing (self diagnosis for me always carried an element of doubt).

Talking to people here on AC has been invaluable though. I can't recommend it enough to realise you are not totally alone!
 
It seems $1200 is the standard going rate for most. I got an assessment a month ago at 40-something, simply to ease others' attitudes to me, such as family and family friends. It has also helped me understand myself better as a parent and quirky older female. I feel more at ease being me now. It is not a solution to anything, but I can rest easier knowing I am not all those things I've been accused of.

Even without a diagnosis, I KNEW I am on the spectrum. This piece of paper is merely to be pointed at when hassled by others to act, speak or be a certain way. And I am better placed to help, and advocate, for my sons.

Oh, if I am stressed by crap in public, I calmly remind myself I have an official letter allowing me to inwardly roast. Lol.
 
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