Adult Autism Assessments in Calgary
Solasta Counselling offers compassionate adult autism assessments in Calgary, helping you gain clarity and understanding.
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how individuals perceive, process, and interact with the world around them. Autistic people often experience differences in communication, sensory processing, social interactions, and behaviour. ASD is a spectrum, meaning it manifests differently in every individual.
Some people may excel in certain areas, such as problem-solving or focus on specific interests, while others might face challenges with social connections or adapting to change.
Seeking a professional assessment is the first step in understanding how autism impacts your life and unlocking the resources you need to live authentically and confidently.
Why Seek an Autism Diagnosis as an Adult?
An autism diagnosis offers more than just answers—it opens the door to self-awareness, empowerment, and practical solutions.
Understanding Your Needs
Improving Relationships
Accessing Support
Embracing Neurodiversity
Next Steps Toward Clarity and Support
Taking the first step toward understanding your unique experiences can unlock new opportunities and improve your quality of life.
Signs of Autism in Adults
If you recognize these characteristics in yourself, an autism assessment can offer valuable insight and guide you toward understanding your unique experiences.
Autistic adults may understand and interpret social cues differently, which can make social situations feel overwhelming or confusing. Navigating conversations and relationships may require more effort, as their responses to social norms can differ from those of neurotypical individuals.
Many autistic adults also prefer routines and experience distress when faced with unexpected changes.
These disruptions can lead to heightened stress and anxiety, as maintaining structure helps them feel grounded and secure.
Sensory sensitivities are another hallmark of autism, with individuals reacting strongly to sounds, textures, or lights.
These sensory challenges can impact daily functioning and require careful management.
An intense focus on specific interests or hobbies is common among autistic adults, providing a source of enjoyment and personal fulfillment.
However, this deep focus may sometimes lead to social isolation if these interests aren’t shared by others.
Challenges in forming and maintaining relationships are also frequent, as difficulties with communication and social interactions can make it harder to connect with others.
Seeking an adult autism assessment in Calgary can help clarify your experiences and provide guidance on improving your social and emotional well-being.
What to Expect from an Adult Autism Assessment
At Solasta Counselling, our adult autism assessments are tailored to your unique experiences, offering a safe and non-judgemental environment throughout the process.
Initial Consultation
We begin with a conversation about your personal history, experiences, and reasons for seeking an assessment. This is an opportunity to explore your challenges, strengths, and any questions you may have.
Comprehensive Evaluation
Using evidence-based tools, questionnaires, and interviews, we evaluate traits associated with autism, including sensory preferences, communication styles, and behavioural patterns.
Detailed Feedback
Once the assessment is complete, we provide a detailed explanation of the results. If autism is identified, we guide you through the implications of the diagnosis and next steps.
Post-Diagnosis Support
Diagnosis is just the beginning. We offer therapy, resources, and strategies to help you adapt and thrive in all areas of your life.
Treatment and Support After a Diagnosis
An autism diagnosis can be an important step toward self-understanding and growth, helping you identify your strengths and challenges.
We focus on equipping you with the skills and resources to thrive in all areas of life. Our therapeutic approaches are tailored to meet your unique needs, and we offer personalized strategies to address specific challenges.
Here’s how we help:
Coping Strategies for Sensory Sensitivities
Many autistic individuals experience heightened sensitivity to sensory input such as light, sound, textures, or smells.
Our therapy helps you develop coping mechanisms to manage these sensitivities, such as grounding techniques, creating sensory-friendly environments, or learning to use tools like noise-canceling headphones or weighted blankets.
This can significantly reduce discomfort and improve daily functioning.
Skills for Navigating Social Situations
Social interactions can be challenging for those on the autism spectrum.
Through attachment-based therapy and other specialized techniques, we help you build confidence in social settings by focusing on improving communication skills, recognizing non-verbal cues, and managing anxiety in social environments.
We also teach strategies to foster meaningful connections, whether in work, family, or friendships.
Techniques for Managing Stress and Anxiety
Stress and anxiety are common experiences for autistic adults, often triggered by sensory overload, change, or social pressure. We teach practical methods to reduce stress, such as mindfulness, deep-breathing exercises, and self-soothing techniques. These tools empower you to navigate daily stressors with greater resilience and calm.
Tools to Enhance Emotional Regulation and Communication
Emotional regulation can be particularly challenging for autistic individuals, especially in stressful or emotionally charged situations. Our therapy includes evidence-based practices to help you recognize and manage your emotions more effectively. We also work on improving communication skills, so you can express your needs in ways that feel right to you.
External Resources for Ongoing Support
Beyond therapy, we understand that ongoing support can be essential for long-term success. We collaborate with clients to identify valuable external resources such as support groups, specialized educational programs, advocacy organizations, and other community services.
These resources provide additional tools, support networks, and guidance as you continue your journey of growth and self-discovery.
At Solasta Counselling, we’re here to help you not just manage your diagnosis, but to embrace it as part of your unique identity.
Together, we can create a comprehensive, holistic approach to living fully as your authentic self that can include therapy, coping strategies, and community support, empowering you to live a fulfilling and balanced life.
Common Myths About Autism in Adults
There are many misconceptions about autism, especially when it comes to adults. Let’s clear up a few of the most common myths:
Autism Isn’t Always Visible
One of the most pervasive myths about autism is that it’s easy to spot. In reality, many autistic adults have learned to mask or hide their traits to fit in with societal expectations.
This masking can involve suppressing natural behaviours, such as stimming (repetitive movements or sounds), and consciously trying to mimic social cues or expressions.
As a result, autistic adults may go undiagnosed, despite facing difficulties in social interactions, sensory sensitivities, or communication.
The absence of visible traits doesn’t mean that someone isn’t on the spectrum.
An autism diagnosis can help uncover these hidden traits, leading to greater self-understanding and a clearer path to support.
Autism Doesn’t Define Your Abilities
Another myth is that autism limits or defines a person’s abilities.
While autism can bring challenges, it does not mean that autistic individuals cannot excel in various areas of life.
Many autistic adults possess unique strengths, such as exceptional attention to detail, deep focus on specific interests, or innovative problem-solving skills.
These qualities can lead to success in fields like technology, engineering, art, or research. It’s important to remember that autism is a neurological difference, not a limitation.
A diagnosis helps individuals recognize and leverage their strengths while also addressing any areas where support might be needed.
Autism Assessments Aren’t Just for Children
A common misconception is that autism assessments are only relevant for children. However, seeking an autism diagnosis as an adult can be just as beneficial—if not more so.
Many adults who suspect they may be on the autism spectrum often carry years of unanswered questions about their behaviour, social interactions, or emotional responses.
Receiving a diagnosis as an adult can help provide clarity and self-awareness, allowing for better emotional regulation, communication, and self-advocacy.
It can also offer access to resources and therapies specifically tailored to an adult’s needs, enabling individuals to develop coping strategies and thrive in various aspects of their lives, including work, relationships, and personal growth.
Why Choose Solasta Counselling in Calgary?
Our team is experienced in working with neurodiverse individuals and creating personalized approaches to meet your needs.
Expertise in Neurodiversity
Holistic Support
Tailored Assessments
Inclusive Environment
Choosing Solasta Means Choosing a Partner in Self-Discovery
We are committed to supporting autistic adults and neurodiverse needs in Calgary through expert assessments, personalized care, and ongoing resources.
Take the First Step Toward Understanding Yourself
Our adult autism assessments in Calgary are designed to provide clarity, compassion, and actionable insights.
Calgary Counselling and Psychology Services
Our Calgary psychologists have a wide range of experience and expertise in understanding the unique needs of our clients and helping you reach your therapy goals.
CAP
All of our psychologists are registered with the College of Alberta Psychologist.
PAA
Many of our psychologists are members of the Psychology Association of Alberta.
CCPA
Many of our psychologists are members of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association.
Therapists Specializing in Adult Autism Assessments
We’re Located in Calgary, Alberta
We provide counselling and psychological services in-person in Calgary and online counselling throughout Alberta.
Suite 200, 1716 16 Ave NW, Calgary AB
*free parking behind the building
Our Calgary Office Space
Our thoughtfully designed counselling spaces are crafted to create a warm, welcoming environment where you can feel completely at ease.
Get Started With Solasta in Three Easy Steps
Find Your Therapist
Book Online
Choose a date and time that fits your schedule and receive instant confirmation of your appointment.
In-person or Online
Visit our welcoming Calgary office or meet with your therapist online from the comfort of your home.
FAQs
What types of therapy do you offer at Solasta Counselling?
At Solasta Counselling, we offer a wide range of evidence-based therapies tailored to your individual needs.
These include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), EMDR for trauma, Narrative Therapy, and Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
Each approach is designed to help address specific challenges, whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief, trauma, or other concerns.
How do I know if therapy is right for me?
Therapy can be helpful if you’re experiencing emotional or psychological challenges that affect your daily life, relationships, or well-being.
Common signs include persistent feelings of sadness or anxiety, difficulty coping with stress, or a desire for personal growth and self-discovery.
If you’re unsure, an initial consultation can help you explore your concerns and determine if therapy is a good fit for you.
What can I expect during my first session?
Your first session at Solasta Counselling will focus on understanding your unique situation and goals.
You’ll discuss your current challenges, personal history, and what you hope to achieve in therapy.
This session allows your therapist to tailor a treatment plan that suits your needs, while also giving you an opportunity to ask questions and build a comfortable, trusting relationship.
Do you offer virtual or in-person counselling sessions?
Yes, Solasta Counselling offers both virtual and in-person sessions to accommodate your preferences and needs.
Virtual therapy allows you to access support from the comfort of your home, while in-person sessions provide a private, welcoming environment at our Calgary location and throughout Alberta.
Both options ensure the same level of care and confidentiality.
How long does therapy usually take?
The length of therapy varies depending on your goals and the complexity of your concerns.
Some clients see improvement in just a few sessions, while others benefit from longer-term support.
Your therapist will work with you to set realistic expectations and adjust your treatment plan as you progress.
Is therapy confidential?
Yes, all sessions at Solasta Counselling are confidential.
We follow strict professional and legal guidelines to protect your privacy.
The only exceptions involve safety concerns, such as risks of harm to yourself or others, which your therapist will explain during your initial session.