As the principal psychologist at our clinic, I’m delighted to introduce the strengths-based Monteiro Interview Guidelines for Diagnosing the Autism Spectrum, Second Edition (MIGDAS-2). This method represents a significant development in autism assessments, offering a neuroaffirmative approach that values the unique perspectives of autistic individuals.
What is MIGDAS?
Developed from extensive research, MIGDAS is an interactive method for evaluating autistic individuals. It stands apart from traditional standardised tests by focusing on sensory-driven play and discussions centred on personal interests, providing rich, qualitative insights into language, communication, social relationships, emotional responses, and sensory use.
Who Can Benefit from MIGDAS?
MIGDAS is suitable for individuals across all ages, from toddlers to adults, accommodating various levels of language and communication abilities. It’s effective for those with verbal fluency, including individuals with limited verbal abilities. The method’s adaptability allows for a personalised assessment, respecting each individual’s unique brain style.
Why Choose MIGDAS for Yourself or Your Child?
Opting for MIGDAS means choosing an approach that deeply respects and values the distinct perspectives of autistic individuals. This method is not just about diagnosis; it’s about understanding the world from the individual’s viewpoint and using this understanding to guide decisions around education, interventions, and support. The MIGDAS assessment is a positive experience, focusing on individual strengths and differences, crucial for effective support and intervention strategies.
Advantages of MIGDAS
- Child-Centred and Adult-Appropriate: MIGDAS creates an engaging environment for individuals, encouraging a more accurate and in-depth understanding of their unique needs.
- Strengths-Based Assessment: This method highlights an individual’s strengths, contributing to a holistic understanding of their abilities and potential, empowering them to build successful life strategies.
- Comprehensive and Collaborative: Involving a team-based approach, MIGDAS ensures a comprehensive understanding of the individual’s needs across different environments.
Summary
The MIGDAS therefore offers a nuanced, respectful, and comprehensive understanding of individuals on the autism spectrum. Its neuroaffirmative approach delivered with respect understanding of brain style differences that present with Autism. It used as part of a battery of evidenced based assessment methods to help explore and confirm a diagnosis and develop individual support needs. By engaging in the MIGDAS, individuals and families are assisted in understand their needs but also celebrates their unique way of experiencing the world.
