Neurodiversity

Specialised Neurodiversity Assessments for Women and Girls: Autism & ADHD

At Christine Tizzard Psychology we recognise that neurodivergent women and girls often face unique challenges in obtaining accurate diagnoses.

Traditional diagnostic criteria, historically based on male presentations, can overlook or misinterpret the manifestations of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in females. Our specialised assessments are designed to identify and understand these distinct presentations, ensuring that women and girls receive the support and recognition they deserve.

Why Gender-Sensitive Assessments Are Crucial

Females with ASD or ADHD are frequently underdiagnosed or diagnosed later in life. This discrepancy arises because women and girls often exhibit subtler symptoms and develop coping mechanisms that mask their challenges. Without appropriate assessment, many continue without the support they need, impacting their mental health, education, and overall well-being.

Understanding Autism in Women and Girls

Autism in females often presents differently than in males, leading to under recognition. Key characteristics include:

Social Camouflaging

Many girls learn to mimic social behaviours, making their difficulties less apparent.

Intense Interests

While both genders may have focused interests, girls’ interests often align with socially accepted topics, such as animals or literature, making them less noticeable.

Sensory Sensitivities

Heightened sensitivity to sounds, lights, or textures is common.

Emotional Regulation Challenges

Difficulties in managing emotions can lead to internalised issues like anxiety or depression.

Delayed Diagnosis

Due to these subtler presentations, many women receive diagnoses in adulthood, often after years of misdiagnosis or misunderstanding.

Recognising ADHD in Women and Girls

ADHD symptoms in females are frequently overlooked, especially when they do not align with the hyperactive behaviours commonly associated with the disorder. Notable signs include:

Inattentiveness

Struggling to maintain focus, being easily distracted, or frequently daydreaming.

Executive Function Difficulties

Challenges in organising tasks, managing time, or following through on projects.

Emotional Sensitivity

Heightened sensitivity to sounds, lights, or textures is common.

Internalised Symptoms

Feelings of overwhelm, low self-esteem, or chronic stress.

Late Recognition

Many women realise they have ADHD only when their children are diagnosed or when life transitions highlight their challenges.

Our Comprehensive Assessment Approach

We offer tailored assessments that:

✔ Incorporate Gender-Sensitive Tools: Utilising diagnostic instruments validated for female presentations.
✔ Holistic Evaluations: Considering personal history, behavioural observations, and self-reported experiences.
✔ Collaborative Process: Engaging with clients to understand their unique experiences and challenges.
✔ Detailed Reporting: Providing comprehensive reports with actionable recommendations for support and intervention. Career guidance is an integral and crucial part of the assessment.

Who Can Benefit?

Our specialised assessments are ideal for:

✔ Girls exhibiting social or academic challenges: Especially when traditional evaluations haven’t provided clarity.
✔ Women seeking understanding: Those who have long felt “different” and are looking for insights into their experiences.
✔ Individuals with prior misdiagnoses: Such as anxiety or depression, where underlying neurodiversity may have been overlooked.
✔ Parents or caregivers: Looking to support their daughters with accurate diagnoses and tailored interventions.

Take the Next Step

If you or someone you know may benefit from a specialised neurodiversity assessment, we’re here to help. Understanding is the first step toward empowerment.

For more information or to begin your assessment, contact us today.