Understanding Adult Autism: Masking, Burnout, and Missed Diagnoses
April 15, 2026
Apr 15, 2026
LifeStance Psychologist Dr. Audrey Oliva explores what psychological assessment for adult autism really involves—and why so many adults are missed earlier in life.
We discuss the full evaluation process, from the initial intake to in‑depth testing, behavioral observation, and comprehensive feedback. The conversation unpacks key concepts like masking, twice exceptionality, and autistic burnout, and explains how high intelligence, long‑term coping strategies, or overlapping conditions like trauma, ADHD, or OCD can complicate diagnosis.
We also discuss common concerns adults have about “masking too well” during evaluations, the emotional and cognitive demands of testing, and why including lived experience—and sometimes family perspective—matters so much.
MEET THE GUEST
Audrey Oliva, MA, PsyD
Dr. Audrey Oliva, PsyD
Dr. Audrey Oliva is a Psychologist in Missouri who has been practicing since 2019. She completed her Masters of Arts and Doctor of Psychology degrees in Clinical Psychology, with an emphasis in Child and Adolescent Psychology at Adler University in Chicago, Illinois.
Dr. Oliva provides comprehensive neuropsychological and psychological evaluations from a neurodiversity-affirming and strengths-based approach. Dr. Oliva works with children, adolescents, and adults. She enjoys supporting children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of social-emotional and behavioral concerns including anxiety, depression, and adjustment disorders. Her areas of expertise are in the diagnosis and treatment of neurodevelopmental disorders (e.g., ADHD, autism, learning disorders), mood disorders (e.g., anxiety, OCD, depression), behavioral disorders and parent psychoeducation.
Dr. Oliva grew up in the St. Louis area and loves enjoying all her favorite spots around the city. She enjoys spending time outside with her family, listening to live music, cooking, and traveling.
Dr. Audrey Oliva is a Psychologist in Missouri who has been practicing since 2019. She completed her Masters of Arts and Doctor of Psychology degrees in Clinical Psychology, with an emphasis in Child and Adolescent Psychology at Adler University in Chicago, Illinois.
Dr. Oliva provides comprehensive neuropsychological and psychological evaluations from a neurodiversity-affirming and strengths-based approach. Dr. Oliva works with children, adolescents, and adults. She enjoys supporting children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of social-emotional and behavioral concerns including anxiety, depression, and adjustment disorders. Her areas of expertise are in the diagnosis and treatment of neurodevelopmental disorders (e.g., ADHD, autism, learning disorders), mood disorders (e.g., anxiety, OCD, depression), behavioral disorders and parent psychoeducation.
Dr. Oliva grew up in the St. Louis area and loves enjoying all her favorite spots around the city. She enjoys spending time outside with her family, listening to live music, cooking, and traveling.
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