Can You Self-Identify as Autistic? Understanding Self-Diagnosis and Next Steps
Reviewed by Nechama "Nicole" Fried, MEd, BCBA, LBA
Yes — you can self-identify as autistic. Many people recognize traits of autism in themselves long before they receive a formal diagnosis. Self-identifying can be an empowering first step in understanding your brain, your needs, and your experiences.
But it’s also helpful to know what self-identifying really means, and when getting an official evaluation might make sense.
Understanding Self-Identification
Self-identifying as autistic means you recognize that you share characteristics common to autism — like sensory sensitivities, social communication differences, or unique thinking patterns. It’s not about labeling yourself; it’s about self-awareness.
For many adults, especially women and those assigned female at birth, signs of autism were often missed in childhood.
Online resources, self-screening tools, and autism communities can help people finally see their experiences reflected in others — sometimes for the very first time.
Self-identification allows people to:
- Better understand their behaviors, needs, and boundaries
- Connect with the autism community for support and shared experiences
- Begin self-advocating at work, in school, or in relationships
The Difference Between Self-Identification and Diagnosis
While self-identifying can be valid and meaningful, an official autism evaluation provides a professional confirmation. An autism diagnosis can open doors to supports like ABA therapy, workplace accommodations, and school services.
Some people are perfectly comfortable identifying without a formal diagnosis. Others want professional guidance to better understand their strengths, challenges, and next steps.
There’s no “right” choice — it depends on your goals and what kind of support you want.
Why Some People Choose a Professional Evaluation
A professional evaluation offers:
- Clarity: It can help confirm or rule out autism, ADHD, anxiety, or other overlapping conditions.
- Access to services: Some programs, insurance plans, and schools require documentation of an official diagnosis.
- Personal insight: A licensed clinician can help you understand how autism presents in your daily life.
If you think you may be autistic, a compassionate, comprehensive autism evaluation can be a helpful next step.
At Blue Jay ABA, we believe understanding yourself is powerful — whether that starts with self-reflection or professional support. Our team offers ABA assessments, therapy, and resources across North Carolina to help individuals and families thrive.
We also provide:
- Home-based ABA therapy for personalized, one-on-one care
- School-based ABA therapy to support learning and social skills
- Telehealth ABA therapy for convenient, flexible access to care
- ABA parent training to empower families with practical tools
If you’re curious about your own experiences or your child’s, reach out to Blue Jay ABA — we’re here to help you explore the next steps with understanding and care.
FAQs
Is it okay to call myself autistic without a diagnosis?
Yes. Many adults use self-identification to describe their experiences and connect with others. It’s a valid form of self-understanding.
What’s the benefit of a professional autism diagnosis?
A diagnosis can give you access to support services, therapy, and workplace or school accommodations.
Can self-diagnosed adults benefit from ABA or other therapies?
Yes. If you relate to autism traits, services like ABA therapy and coaching can still support skill-building and emotional regulation.
Sources:
- https://www.verywellmind.com/self-diagnosis-according-to-an-autistic-psychologist-8650879
- https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/topics/diagnosis/before-diagnosis/deciding-whether-to-seek-an-autism-assessment
- https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40489-023-00361-x
- https://www.autismparentingmagazine.com/autism-self-diagnosis/
- https://www.research.chop.edu/car-autism-roadmap/wondering-if-youre-autistic
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