How do you know if your client has autism?

In this professional article for the Healthcare Counselling and Psychotherapy Journal, Elaine Nicholson MBE examines the complexity of identifying Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) within counselling practice. She highlights the diagnostic criteria outlined in the DSM-5, the prevalence of co-morbid mental health conditions, and the significant risks of misdiagnosis when autism is suggested without specialist assessment. Drawing on clinical case examples, the article cautions therapists against prematurely labelling vulnerable clients and emphasises ethical practice, professional competence, and appropriate referral pathways when autism is suspected.