Is it Trauma? Autism? Both?

Below is a self-reflection tool to help adults differentiate between high-masking autistic experience and complex trauma.

Please download the file below and read its instructions closely before deciding about proceeding with this self-reflection. Be compassionate with yourself if you continue, as it can bring up strong emotions. If you are currently navigating significant unresolved trauma, it may be best to postpone using this tool until you have adequate support in place.

Differentiating High Masking Autism and Complex Trauma: A Self-Discovery Tool

Autism and complex trauma (CT) can present with overlapping traits and often co-occur, making it difficult to distinguish which features come from which experience. Autistic people are more likely to be exposed to traumatic situations and to be affected by them, reflecting social-emotional sensitivity and cognitive-sensory overstimulation, not weakness.

The Coventry Grid for Adults (CGA), developed by clinicians in 2019 to differentiate autism and CT, is valuable despite being based on clinical experience, not research. I adapted it here into an accessible tool for adults for self-reflection. Unlike the original clinical tool, this version encourages curious, self-compassionate exploration. Note this process can be emotionally taxing or require support, especially with unresolved trauma. Take breaks, seek support, or stop if overwhelmed.

Diagnosing autism in adulthood is intricate, often complicated by overlapping traits with conditions like ADHD, OCD, anxiety, burnout, or trauma. Even as an autistic psychologist with extensive experience assessing adults, I’ve found that the more I do this work, the more complex it reveals itself to be. Consequently, while self-reflection is valuable, it cannot replace the expertise, objectivity, and comprehensive evaluation a qualified diagnostician offers. This resource is educational and affirming, but for specific concerns, consulting a professional is recommended.

Neurodivergence is not a monolith; this reflection tool is meant to support curiosity, not limit it.