Adult Diagnosis

Late autism diagnoses are becoming more commonplace as greater amounts of information about autism is made readily available. There are a variety of reasons why people may seek out diagnosis as adults, such as realizing that an autism diagnosis might help explain why they’ve felt different from their peers. Where you live in Ontario will likely impact your access to a psychiatrist or psychologist who can conduct the assessments required for diagnosis.

Autism Ontario does not provide diagnosis; however, we can provide resources to assist people in their search.

Key Information About Accessing Adult Diagnosis in Ontario

• Generally, adults are diagnosed with autism by either a psychiatrist or a psychologist. Fewer psychiatrists perform adult autism diagnostic assessments than psychologists. As a result, adults are more likely be diagnosed with autism by a psychologist.
• The Ontario Health Insurance Program (OHIP) covers psychiatrist appointments. Psychologists, however, may only be covered under OHIP if they work in public healthcare setting such as a government-funded hospital or clinic.
• There are two ways to access diagnosis: through the public system or via the private system.
• For access to a diagnosis through the public system, a person may request a referral from a general practitioner to either a psychiatrist or a psychologist who is employed in a public healthcare setting. This can be covered by OHIP.
• For access to a diagnosis through the private system, adults can be referred or self-refer to a psychologist working on a fee-for-service basis in the community. A person must pay for these services using either their own money or a private insurance plan if they have one.