Just started EMDR and suspicions of autism spectrum disorder - Should I get tested now or later?

[lovak]

It's pretty clear in the title. I have had a lot of diagnoses over the year, had myself tested for them after they 'assumed' that was the problem and got back negative tests.

I'd been free from therapy and most of my issues for over 5 years, but got sucked in the black hole again last year. They did an intake, some regular testing, and ptsd with complex trauma was obvious. They thought I'd might have autism or borderline. I've been officially tested for borderline in the past, and it came back negative. I'd never heard autism before.
My T and I thought it would be best to 'tackle' the ptsd first, because some symptoms could be from the ptsd aswell as from autism. But now my other T said it might be better to get tested. If they know what my problems are, there are better ways to help me.

I actually want to know whats up in my head. But should I ask to be tested now I've just started EMDR? I don't know how long EMDR will take, but probably quite a while because there is so so much to go through. I'm going to talk this over with my T, but I would like to have your opinions on it.

 

[Lucycat]

I have never been tested for autism, although I have frequently been told that I have it, by people that really don't know the diagnostic criteria it must be said. Anyway I was recently asked if I would consider getting a formal diagnosis. My response was what is the point? At my age - retired - it will not open any doors to support through education or careers. Far too late for that. There is no medication to 'cure' it. So, for me personally I just live with the knowledge that I 'could' have Autism, and it helps to explain some of my odd thoughts and actions. AS well as the CPTSD that is!

 

[Lucycat]

Here in the UK it can take a year to get an Autism Assessment, and then it may be more than one appointment. (My nephew has been diagnosed)
There is no way I would delay EMDR for that!

 

[lovak]

@Lucycat Thanks for your answer!

Ive been talking it over with my husband and he's not sure. I know being diagnosed wont change who I am, but I'm hoping my treatment could get more specific. I'm hoping to get to no myself better and, well, cut myself some slack when needed. I'm a couple of years away from even reaching 30, so It could help me for practically a lifetime

Oh, and I would NEVER put EMDR on hold for it. I'm with a really big mental healthcare provider now, and they also have an autism centre. I'm already 'in' now, so the waiting list would probably be shorter than that. The thought would be to do the testing parallel to the trauma treatment, if that's even possible.

 

[ButterflyBean]

@DogwoodTree might have some good insight :)