Comprehensive Autism Assessment for Adults and Kids l Spokane WA
What Is Autism?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) describes a range of neurological differences that affect how a person understands, communicates, and relates to others. People on the autism spectrum often think, feel, and experience the world in deeply unique ways—sometimes noticing details others miss, or finding comfort in structure and patterns. I am an expert in identifying Autism in adults, women, and those in whom the diagnosis was "missed."
I work with people ages eight and up.
Why Seek an Autism Assessment?
A comprehensive, compassionate evaluation can bring understanding, relief, and direction.
At Gerdin Psychological Services, Dr. Tyler A. Gerdin, PhD, ABPP, provides thorough, individualized assessments for children, teens, and adults. Each evaluation is designed to clarify whether symptoms reflect autism, ADHD, anxiety, trauma, or other developmental differences.
You may consider an autism assessment if you or your child experiences:
Difficulty interpreting social cues or reading others’ emotions
Intense focus on specific interests or routines
Sensory sensitivities (sound, texture, lights, touch)
Challenges with change or transitions
Feeling “different” but not sure why
Strong verbal or intellectual skills but social exhaustion
Delayed or unusual communication patterns
Difficulty with empathy or emotional expression
Autism in Adults
Many adults reach adulthood without a diagnosis—especially women and high-masking individuals. Gaining clarity later in life can explain lifelong struggles with relationships, burnout, or identity.
An adult autism evaluation can help with:
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Self-understanding and self-acceptance
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Workplace and relationship adjustments
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College or employment accommodations
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Connecting to neurodiversity-affirming communities
Why Choose Gerdin Psychological
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Dr. Gerdin takes the time to hear your story. Really. Interviews always end with the question "Is there anything else I need to understand?" If Dr. Gerdin missed something important, more time will be made to talk about important topics so the important facts are not omitted.
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Comprehensive & Human-Centered: Every evaluation is customized—no checklist testing.
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Board-Certified Expertise: Dr. Gerdin is an ABPP-certified clinical psychologist with specialized training in neuropsychology and developmental disorders.
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Neurodiversity-Affirming: Assessments highlight strengths, not just challenges.
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Trusted in the Inland Northwest: Serving Spokane, Coeur d’Alene, and surrounding communities for accurate, compassionate diagnostics.
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How Dr. Gerdin Evaluates for Autism
Dr. Gerdin is a board-certified clinical psychologist specializing in neurodevelopmental and personality assessment. He uses evidence-based tools including:
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Structured Interviews and behavioral/social observations
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Neurocognitive and social-emotional tests (memory, attention, empathy, executive functioning)
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Structured clinical interviews and developmental history reviews
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Collateral input from parents, partners, or teachers (if appropriate)
Every evaluation seeks to tell a story—not just give a label—integrating your strengths, challenges, and personality into a clear and respectful profile.
Process
Session 1
Interview
You’ll share your history, daily experiences, and specific concerns. Dr. Gerdin listens carefully to understand the whole person—not just the symptoms.
Session 2
Neuropsychological Testing
You’ll complete structured activities and questionnaires tailored to your age and needs. For children, parents or caregivers may participate in observation and reporting.
Session 3
Feedback & Written Report
Dr. Gerdin meets with you to review results, answer questions, and discuss next steps. You’ll receive a personalized report with diagnostic findings, practical recommendations, and resources for therapy, school, or workplace accommodations.
