Autism & ADHD in females

It was previously believed that autistic boys outnumbered autistic girls. However, more recent research and clinical evidence suggests that girls may present with autism differently and may be ‘hiding in plain sight’. For example, many females are quite creative, imaginative, socially motivated, and have interests similar to their peers. Often, their differences and struggles are less visible due to strategies like masking and camouflaging, which can be adaptive, but can also lead to exhaustion, burnout, and other negative consequences. The traditional ways to assess autism were initially designed for boys, leaving many girls and women ‘missed’ by these traditional approaches to assessment.

At the Sterling Institute for Autism, we have gained extensive experience and expertise in assessing more nuanced and subtle autism presentations in females. We work with all ages, from youth through adulthood.

Dr. Sterling has become known as an expert in this area. She has been invited to give continuing education lectures and trainings to various organizations and clinics, teaching other professionals about the subtle presentations in females and how to assess for neurodiversity in this population. These expertise extend to gender fluid presentations, given that the role of gender impacts one’s experience throughout life.

Reach out to us to ask more about assessments for girls and women, and how we can best support you!