What Is the Process for Getting an Autism Evaluation in Colorado?
1. Identify the Signs
Many teens and adults seeking an autism evaluation in Colorado report lifelong experiences such as:
Feeling out of sync with peers
Social burnout and exhaustion after gatherings
Needing routines and predictability
Prefering people speak literally, or interpreting information literally
Engaging in repetitive behaviors like humming, rocking, or skin picking
If any of these resonates, please know you’re not alone, and understanding why these might happen for you can be incredibly helpful in your wellbeing.
2. Deciding to Seek Testing
Seeking an evaluation can feel scary, but in our experience, we almost always see it lead to relief and validation. Here’s the process:
A deep dive into your strengths and struggles
Tailored support, resources, and next steps
Enhanced self-awareness and increased confidence to be able to advocate for yourself
Empowered Living Collective offers two evaluation options:
Full Evaluation – Includes interviews, developmental questionnaires, and standardized assessments.
Shortened Evaluation – Focused on self- or parent-reporting for individuals with budget concerns.
(not sure which is right for you? Reach out and we’re happy to help guide you!)
3. Logistics: What to Expect
Assessment Scheduling: Spread over several sessions, including developmental questionnaires and diagnostic interviews. Parents participate when appropriate but it isn’t always required.
Questionnaire: We’ll send multiple questionnaires for you to complete on your own, as well as to any friends/family who understand you on a deeper level as well
Timeline: From intake to feedback, the full process typically takes 2–3 weeks.
4. The Evaluation Session
You will participate in:
Structured diagnostic tools assessing intelligence, executive functioning, adaptive behavior, social skills, and masking
Standardized questionnaires. Engagement may include caregivers for teens, though this varies by situation.
5. Receiving Feedback & Recommendations
Within a few weeks post-assessment, you’ll receive a comprehensive feedback session:
Detailed insights into your profile
Personalized strategies, resources, and referrals
Support options like therapy, accommodations (IEPs/504s for teens), and community tools
Guidance for sharing your diagnosis with employers or schools
Empowered Living Collective’s evaluations are holistic, balancing clarity with ongoing emotional support and specific, real-world tools.
6. Life After Diagnosis
Post-diagnosis, clients leave with:
A deeper understanding of autism as part of their identity
Practical advice for daily living, relationship needs, and sensory considerations
Assistance accessing accommodations, resources, or therapy
A supportive team that continues alongside you, including therapists trained in neurodiversity-affirming support
Why Empowered Living Collective?
Neurodiversity‑affirming approach, with care tailored to adult and teen experiences
Two clear evaluation paths to fit varying needs and budgets
Fast turnaround with comprehensive and supportive feedback
Continued therapy and resource guidance beyond diagnosis — you're never on your own
If you’d like to learn more about our teen and adult autism testing in Colorado, head to our teen and adult autism testing page. Feel free to reach out with any questions or to get scheduled!
