MIGDAS-2: Strengths-Based Autism Evaluation
Designed Especially for Late Adolescents & Adults
At Bright Starts Pediatrics, we recognize that autism often goes unnoticed until the teen years or adulthood, especially in individuals who mask well or have subtle traits. Our MIGDAS-2 evaluation is uniquely suited for late adolescents and adults, offering a compassionate, strengths-based approach that helps clarify lifelong patterns in communication, sensory processing, and social understanding.
This neuro-affirming process allows older teens and adults to share their lived experiences in a natural, conversational way, leading to clearer insights and more accurate diagnosis.
MIGDAS-2 Autism Evaluation
A Neuro-Affirming Assessment for Late Adolescents and Young Adults
Many autistic individuals reach their teen years or early adulthood without ever receiving a clear explanation for their lifelong experiences. As academic, social, and emotional demands increase, subtle autistic traits often become more noticeable. At Bright Starts Pediatrics, we offer MIGDAS-2 evaluations designed specifically for late adolescents and young adults who may have been overlooked, misdiagnosed, or misunderstood earlier in childhood.
Our approach is warm, strengths-based, and focused on helping teens and young adults understand themselves with clarity and confidence.
What Is the MIGDAS-2?
The MIGDAS-2 (Monteiro Interview Guidelines for Diagnosing the Autism Spectrum, Second Edition) is a sensory-based, conversational assessment tool that builds a descriptive profile of how an individual:
communicates
relates socially
processes sensory input
manages daily expectations
adapts to school, work, and relationships
Unlike structured tests, the MIGDAS-2 invites teens and young adults to share real-life experiences, personal insights, and sensory preferences in a relaxed, natural way. This makes it especially effective for individuals who mask well, excel academically, or present with subtle autism traits.
Why Teens & Young Adults Benefit From the MIGDAS-2
Many autistic teens develop compensatory skills, scripts, masking, people-pleasing, perfectionism, that disguise their underlying needs.
The MIGDAS-2 helps uncover:
internal experiences behind masking
emotional exhaustion or burnout
sensory sensitivities
social misunderstandings
executive functioning challenges
lifelong patterns that were missed in childhood
It’s also a powerful tool for young adults navigating transitions, including college, work, and independent living.
What to Expect During the Evaluation
1. Intake & Developmental History
We begin by gathering childhood information and current concerns. Parents or caregivers often participate, even when evaluating a young adult, as early developmental patterns still matter.
2. Sensory-Based, Conversational Interview
The session feels more like a natural conversation than a test.
We explore topics such as:
friendships
school or work experience
emotional regulation
special interests
sensory needs
communication preferences
areas that feel confusing, tiring, or overwhelming
This format helps individuals express themselves authentically and without pressure.
3. Observations Across Core Domains
We look for patterns in:
social communication
sensory processing
flexibility and transitions
executive functioning
coping strategies
internal experiences
4. Integration of Additional Data
We combine MIGDAS-2 observations with:
developmental history
self-report questionnaires
school or workplace insights (when available)
parent input
clinical judgment
This whole-person approach supports an accurate, meaningful diagnosis.
5. Feedback Session & Personalized Recommendations
Once the assessment is complete, we meet with parents — and the teen or young adult, when appropriate, to review results clearly and compassionately.
You’ll receive:
a detailed written report
an explanation of findings
recommendations for school, college, work, or therapy
support for IEPs, 504 plans, or accommodations
next steps tailored to the individual’s goals
Who Is the MIGDAS-2 Designed For?
Our MIGDAS-2 evaluations are especially helpful for:
late adolescents (ages 14–17)
young adults (18+) seeking a first-time diagnosis
teens who mask or compensate socially
gifted or high-achieving students
girls and AFAB individuals with subtle traits
individuals misidentified as ADHD, anxious, or “sensitive”
teens preparing for college or workplace transitions
young adults seeking clarity for self-understanding
While Bright Starts is a pediatric practice, we use the MIGDAS-2 to support families whose children are moving into the important stage of early adulthood.
Why Families Choose Bright Starts
Neuro-affirming approach
Strengths-based diagnostic methods
Specialized experience with subtle or late-presenting autism
Compassionate support for teens and their families
Clear direction for school, home, and adulthood transitions
We are committed to helping adolescents and young adults gain the understanding and support they deserve.
Your Path Forward
If your teen or young adult is struggling socially, feeling overwhelmed, or questioning whether they may be autistic, the MIGDAS-2 can provide clarity and direction.
We walk with families from the first questions through diagnosis and practical next steps with dignity, compassion, and expertise.
Schedule a MIGDAS-2 evaluation or contact us to learn more.
We’re here to support your family every step of the way.
MIGDAS-2 FAQ
1. Why is the MIGDAS-2 ideal for late adolescents and young adults?
Many autistic traits become more noticeable during the teen years and early adulthood, when social and academic expectations increase. The MIGDAS-2 helps identify patterns that may have been masked or overlooked in childhood.
2. Does this evaluation work for adults too?
Yes — especially for young adults who were never evaluated earlier in life. The MIGDAS-2’s conversational, sensory-based approach helps uncover lifelong patterns in communication, relationships, emotional regulation, and sensory processing.
3. Is the MIGDAS-2 helpful for teens who mask or “fly under the radar”?
Absolutely. Adolescents who mask socially or compensate academically often don’t show clear traits on standardized tests. MIGDAS-2 reveals the internal experiences behind the masking.
4. Can this help girls and teens who were missed when younger?
Yes. Girls often show subtle signs or develop strong coping strategies. The MIGDAS-2 helps uncover these less-visible patterns in a supportive, neuro-affirming way.
5. What does a MIGDAS-2 session look like for teens or young adults?
It feels like a guided, low-pressure conversation. Teens and young adults discuss school, social interactions, sensory needs, daily challenges, and personal experiences. When appropriate, they may also explore sensory items.
6. Do teens and young adults still need developmental history?
Yes. Developmental history gives essential context. Parents, caregivers, or early caregivers often help provide this information — even when evaluating young adults.
7. Does MIGDAS-2 replace tools like the ADOS-2?
It depends. For teens and young adults — especially those who mask — MIGDAS-2 often provides deeper insight. Sometimes we use it alone; sometimes we pair it with standardized assessments for a fuller picture.
8. Will my teen or young adult receive a formal diagnosis?
If criteria are met, yes. MIGDAS-2 findings are combined with developmental history, self-report, questionnaires, and clinical judgment to determine whether an autism diagnosis is appropriate.
9. What if my teen or young adult struggles to express themselves?
The MIGDAS-2 is flexible. Individuals can share experiences through conversation, examples, sensory discussion, or even written responses if that feels easier.
10. How does this evaluation support transitions into adulthood?
The report includes specific guidance for:
• college accommodations
• work or vocational planning
• executive functioning supports
• emotional and sensory regulation
• communication and relationship skills
• navigating independence
This makes MIGDAS-2 an excellent option for those preparing for college, workforce entry, or adult life.
Is the MIGDAS-2 the Right Evaluation for Your Teen or Young Adult?
If your teen or young adult is masking, feeling overwhelmed, or struggling to understand their own experiences, the MIGDAS-2 can offer clarity in a gentle, strengths-based way. This sensory-focused, conversational assessment helps uncover lifelong patterns that may not appear on traditional tests. If your family is in Colorado Springs and exploring an autism evaluation that honors lived experience, we’re here to guide you with warmth, respect, and clear next steps.
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