How Is Autism Misdiagnosis Detected?

PostedNovember 13, 2025

UpdatedNovember 13, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Beatrice Holloway, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Autism misdiagnosis detection is often uncovered when real-life patterns don’t quite align with an initial diagnosis. A person may appear to improve in some areas while continuing to struggle in others, or support strategies may seem off-target. These mismatches can signal deeper issues.

One of the early misdiagnosis signs is when interventions that typically support autistic individuals don’t lead to meaningful improvements. Inconsistent progress, increasing stress in social settings, or emotional burnout might suggest that something was overlooked or mislabelled.

When a Fresh Look Is Needed

Professionals often recommend an autism reassessment when new behaviours arise or previously unnoticed traits become more prominent. This is especially common during transitional stages, like adolescence or major life changes, when symptoms can intensify or evolve.

Mismatch between diagnosis and lived experience

If the individual shows abilities or reactions not typically seen in autism, it could mean a coexisting condition was missed or the diagnosis was incorrect.

Shifts in school or work performance

Unexplained academic or occupational struggles may prompt families or professionals to reconsider earlier conclusions.

Initiating the process

A structured rediagnosis process includes updated interviews, revised clinical observations, and often, new testing to ensure that no key traits or conditions are missed the second time around.

Visit providers like Autism Detect for personal consultations focused on clarity and long-term support planning.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to misdiagnosis and differential diagnosis.

Beatrice Holloway, MSc

Author

Beatrice Holloway is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a BS in Applied Psychology. She specialises in CBT, psychological testing, and applied behaviour therapy, working with children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), developmental delays, and learning disabilities, as well as adults with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety, OCD, and substance use disorders. Holloway creates personalised treatment plans to support emotional regulation, social skills, and academic progress in children, and delivers evidence-based therapy to improve mental health and well-being across all ages.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.