The Diagnostic Tools We Use

What tools do well:

Standardized assessment tools provide objective measurement, comparison against population norms, structured screening for specific symptom patterns, and documentation that supports formal diagnosis. They reduce the variability that comes from subjective clinical impression alone.

What tools don't do:

Tools don't replace clinical judgment. They don't capture the full lived experience of being a neurodivergent adult. They don't always perform well across diverse populations (particularly women, AFAB individuals, and high-masking adults — where standard tools were often validated against narrower populations). They don't account for context that only conversation reveals.

How we use them:

Clinical interview first, tools second. We use the conversation with you to understand what's been going on, then select tools that help measure or document what we're already starting to understand. The clinical formulation comes from integrating both — the qualitative depth of the conversation and the quantitative measurement from the tools.

Creyos

Cognitive assessment platform measuring working memory, attention, executive function, and reasoning across 12 standardized tests. We use Creyos in adult ADHD, autism, and AuDHD evaluations — particularly when objective measurement of cognitive profile would add value to the clinical picture.

QbCheck

FDA-cleared computerized task that measures attention, impulse control, and motor activity. QbCheck provides objective ADHD assessment data — valuable when ADHD symptoms are subtle, when there's diagnostic uncertainty, or when the patient wants objective documentation alongside clinical assessment.

ASRS-v1.1 and Conners' Adult ADHD Rating Scales

Standardized self-report and informant-report scales validated for adult ADHD assessment. ASRS-v1.1 (Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale) is the WHO-developed screening tool. Conners' Adult ADHD Rating Scales provides more detailed symptom profiling. We use both as part of comprehensive ADHD evaluation.

RAADS-R, AQ-50, CAT-Q

Validated tools designed specifically for adult autism assessment. RAADS-R (Ritvo Autism Asperger Diagnostic Scale-Revised) is a comprehensive adult autism screen. AQ-50 (Autism Spectrum Quotient) is a short-form screen. CAT-Q (Camouflaging Autistic Traits Questionnaire) measures masking behaviors specifically — important for late-identified adults whose masking has obscured their autism for decades.

Clinical interview tools

Beyond rating scales, we use structured interview frameworks to ensure comprehensive coverage of developmental history, current functioning, sensory experiences, social patterns, and co-occurring conditions. Karina's clinical experience guides the conversation, but structured frameworks ensure nothing important gets missed.

For ADHD evaluation specifically

ASRS-v1.1 and Conners' Adult ADHD Rating Scales are nearly always part of the evaluation. QbCheck is added when objective measurement of attention and impulse control would clarify the picture — typically in cases with subtle symptoms, diagnostic uncertainty, or when the patient specifically wants objective documentation. Creyos is added when broader cognitive profiling adds value (executive function patterns, working memory, processing speed).

For Autism evaluation specifically

RAADS-R and AQ-50 are typical screening tools. CAT-Q is added for adults likely to have been masking — especially women, AFAB individuals, and high-functioning adults whose autism wasn't identified earlier. Creyos may be added when cognitive profile adds clinical value.

For AuDHD evaluation specifically

Both ADHD-specific tools (ASRS, Conners') and autism-specific tools (RAADS-R, AQ-50, CAT-Q). Cognitive testing with Creyos is more frequently included for AuDHD because the integrated picture often benefits from objective cognitive data

Across all evaluations

Structured clinical interview is always central. The tools support and document; the conversation drives the diagnostic formulation.