Now What After an Autism or ADHD Diagnosis? A Psychologist’s Roadmap (Therapy, Supports, Next Steps)
Just diagnosed with autism, ADHD, or AuDHD and wondering “now what?”
Get support or learn about evaluations + therapy in Portland, Oregon: forestpsychologicalclinic.com
Getting an autism diagnosis or ADHD diagnosis can bring relief—and also a wave of overwhelm. In this video, I walk you through the most common recommendations I give after a comprehensive evaluation, including what to expect emotionally and how to build a plan that actually fits your nervous system. Whether you’re a parent supporting a child or a late-diagnosed adult seeking clarity, this is a practical roadmap for what to do next.
I’m Dr. James Thatcher, a licensed clinical psychologist at Forest Psychological Clinic in Portland, Oregon. Our clinic focuses on neurodiversity-affirming autism and ADHD evaluations and neuroaffirming therapy—so people leave with a diagnosis and a clear next step plan.
In this video, we cover:
Why a diagnosis isn’t a verdict—it’s a roadmap
How neurodiversity-affirming therapy supports autism/ADHD without trying to “fix” someone
When medication management conversations get clearer (especially with ADHD and co-occurring anxiety, depression, or sleep issues)
How supports work across settings: IEP vs 504 at school, and workplace accommodations to reduce burnout
Why grief, anger, or relief can all show up after getting answers—and how to pace the process
The key decision point: neuroaffirming therapy vs a comprehensive autism/ADHD evaluation (which one you need next)
If you’re in that “Okay… now what?” moment after an autism evaluation or ADHD evaluation, I hope this helps you feel more grounded—and more hopeful—about what comes next.
Chapters
0:00 You got the autism/ADHD diagnosis — now what?
0:32 Relief and overwhelm can both be true
0:58 Diagnosis isn’t a verdict — it’s a roadmap
1:35 Step 1: Neurodiversity-affirming therapy (what changes)
2:16 Kids vs adults: same nervous system, different demands
2:55 Step 2: Medication conversations get more targeted
4:05 Step 3: School supports — IEP vs 504 (what they do)
4:58 Step 3b: Workplace accommodations (not “special treatment”)
5:41 Step 4: Resources + the grief after diagnosis
6:59 Don’t overhaul your life — pick 1–2 next steps
9:16 Neuroaffirming therapy vs a comprehensive autism/ADHD evaluation (which do you need?)
This video is educational and not a substitute for personal medical or mental health care.
#autism #AuDHD #NeuroaffirmingTherapy