Self-Discovery & Neurodivergence Clarity

What Should I Consider Before Getting Diagnosed with Autism and Disclosing My Diagnosis?

Before pursuing an autism diagnosis, it's important to consider your goals. What do you hope the diagnosis will help you access, understand, or advocate for?

Depending on your specific needs (academic, medical, employment, etc.), the type of provider, the format of the report, and Kentucky laws and policies may affect how the diagnosis can be used.

Before scheduling, keep in mind that I am an LPCA, a master’s level clinician under supervision.

🏢 Work Accommodations (ADA)

Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), you are not required to disclose a diagnosis to your employer. Instead, you can describe the challenges you face and request accommodations based on your functional needs.

To access formal accommodations, you may need documentation from a qualified provider. In Kentucky, employers typically accept accommodation letters written by:

• LPCC (Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor)

• LCSW

• LMFT

• Nurse Practitioners (NP)

• Psychologists (PhD or PsyD)

• Medical Doctors (MD)

⚠️ Note: As an LPCA, I can provide assessment services and a comprehensive diagnostic report, but any formal documentation (e.g., a workplace letter) may need to be co-signed. I work closely with my supervisor to support this process.

For ideas on workplace accommodations, visit askjan.org, a helpful resource through the Job Accommodation Network.

🎓 Academic Accommodations

College/University:
Most Kentucky colleges have a disability services office and will have specific requirements for documentation.

• Some accept letters and documentation from LPCAs, LPCCs, LMFTs, or LCSWs.

• Others may require assessments from a licensed psychologist (PhD/PsyD).

• Comprehensive detail may be required, especially if accommodations are ongoing or high-impact (like alternative testing environments or modified coursework).

K-12 Schools (IEPs and 504s):

• IEPs (Individualized Education Plans): Kentucky public schools only accept assessments from licensed psychologists (PhD or PsyD) for determining eligibility.

• 504 Plans: These are often more flexible. Schools may accept documentation from LPCAs, LPCCs, LMFTs, or LCSWs, though some still request a psychologist’s report.

💊 Medication & Psychiatric Care

Psychiatrists vary in whether they accept assessments from masters-level providers.

• Some will honor diagnostic reports from LPCA, LPCCs, or LCSWs.

• Others may require confirmation from a psychologist or MD.

If you already have a psychiatrist, it’s best to check with them directly. If you’re seeking a provider, I’m happy to offer referrals to affirming psychiatric professionals in Kentucky.

🧾 State Disability Benefits (e.g., SSI, SSDI)

To apply for state or federal disability benefits, Kentucky follows Social Security Administration (SSA) guidelines, which do not accept diagnosis from masters-level clinicians alone.

For these purposes, documentation must come from a:

• Licensed Psychologist (PhD or PsyD)

• Medical Doctor (MD)

• Psychiatrist (MD or DO)

If you're pursuing a diagnosis specifically for disability benefits, I recommend working directly with a psychologist who is familiar with the application process.