Title: Clinical Psychologist Discovers Autism and ADHD Diagnosis Later in Life
Subtitle: Dr. Megan Neff’s Personal Journey Leads to a Career Focused on Helping Others
Byline: [Author Name]
[date]
[City], [State] – After years of pursuing her PhD in clinical psychology, Dr. Megan Neff had a groundbreaking realization: she, too, was diagnosed with autism and ADHD. This revelation not only shed light on her own personal struggles but also inspired a profound change in her career trajectory and relationships.
At the age of 37, Dr. Megan Neff was on the verge of receiving her doctorate in clinical psychology when she finally received a diagnosis of autism and ADHD. Coined as AuDHD when both disorders are present, this dual diagnosis is not uncommon.
“I finally had a lens to understand myself,” Dr. Neff shared with Insider. Her journey began when her daughter was diagnosed with ADHD, prompting her and her spouse to wonder if autism might also be a factor based on shared symptoms.
Drawing on her background in psychology, Dr. Neff had access to a wealth of peer-reviewed literature on autism and ADHD. With the aid of her IQ scores and personality assessments, she developed a suspicion that she, too, may have both conditions.
Six months later, a psychologist confirmed her self-diagnosis, making it official that she was indeed living with AuDHD. Not only did this revelation reshape her career, but it also transformed her perspective on relationships and personal growth.
Dr. Neff had been in therapy for three years, initially exploring the possibility of repressed trauma before arriving at her dual diagnosis. “I just couldn’t understand my sensory sensitivities and social aversions,” she explained. Acknowledging her condition helped her understand her struggles with small talk and social interactions, leading to her reliance on “masking” – a common coping mechanism among individuals with autism and ADHD – to navigate social situations.
The phenomena of masking often results in delayed or misdiagnosed conditions, which is particularly true for women and gender non-conforming individuals. Initially skeptical, some people, including her spouse, began to understand her struggles once they gained insights into autism and ADHD.
Embracing her diagnoses, Dr. Neff also recognized unique strengths associated with her conditions. She highlighted her hyper-fixation as her most dominant autistic trait, explaining, “I become highly obsessive around my interests.” This energy fueled her passion for mental health and neurodivergence, drawing her towards a career that focuses on helping others like herself.
The new understanding of her condition prompted Dr. Neff to restructure her life drastically. “I went from being incredibly hard on myself to finally being able to be gentle,” she admitted. Recognizing her need for routine and sensory sensitivity, she transitioned to a private practice, working with neurodivergent patients from her own home. Additionally, she educates and empowers others through her popular Instagram account, shedding light on the symptoms of autism and ADHD.
Dr. Neff emphasized that her experience of undergoing major life shifts following a diagnosis is not uncommon. She encourages others in similar journeys to seek therapy, connect with ADHD and autism communities, and embrace an accurate understanding of themselves.
“A diagnosis is the first step to letting go of internalized shame,” Dr. Neff remarked, “and embracing all the things people with autism and ADHD can be proud of.”
As she continues her work, Dr. Megan Neff serves as a shining example of how personal growth and self-acceptance can lead to profound change and impact the lives of others.
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