What is an Adult Autism Assessment?
An adult autism assessment is a comprehensive, evidence-based process designed to understand whether your experiences are consistent with autism. It explores how you think, feel, communicate, and experience the world, both now and across your life.
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The aim is not simply to give a label, but to develop a meaningful, individualised understanding of your strengths, differences, and any areas of difficulty. All assessments are carried out in line with NICE guidelines and at a pace that works for you.
Who it is for?
This assessment is for adults (18+) who are wondering whether they may be autistic, whether for personal understanding or to access support in areas such as work or education. Some people have always felt different but have never had a clear explanation. Others may have developed ways of coping or “masking” their difficulties, and are now looking to better understand themselves.
Signs you may consider an assessment
People seek an autism assessment for many different reasons. You might consider an assessment if you:
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Find social situations confusing, effortful, or draining
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Prefer routines and predictability, and feel unsettled by change
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Experience sensory sensitivities (e.g. to noise, light, textures)
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Tend to think in a very detailed or focused way
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Long-standing difficulties that have been present since childhood
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Feel you may have been “masking” or camouflaging
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Experienced anxiety, low mood, or burnout without a clear explanation
Everyone’s experience is different, and this list is not exhaustive.
The Assessment Process​​
The assessment is thorough and collaborative, aiming to build a clear and well-rounded understanding of your experiences.
Initial consultation
Assessment components
We begin with a free consultation to explore what autism means to you, what has led you to seek an assessment, and to explain what to expect.
The full assessment typically includes:
Background information:
A detailed exploration of your life experiences, focusing on areas commonly associated with autism across both childhood and adulthood.
Standardised questionnaires:
Including measures such as the Autism Quotient (AQ), Empathy Quotient (EQ), Social Stories Questionnaire(SSQ), and the Camouflaging of Autistic Traits Questionnaire (CAT-Q)
Developmental history:
Where possible, an ADI-R interview with a family member or someone who knew you in early childhood, to understand early development
Social communication assessment:
Exploring your communication and interaction style in a respectful and individualised way
Mental health assessment:
Considering your emotional wellbeing, including experiences such as anxiety, depression, or trauma
Differential diagnosis:
Alternative or overlapping explanations are carefully considered throughout, ensuring that any conclusions are balanced and evidence-based
I complete a thorough and authentic assessment process. I am not in the business of giving a diagnosis where there is insufficient evidence to support it. If I feel there is insufficient evidence to support a diagnosis, instead I will speak with you about other factors related to the difficulties you are experiencing.
What happens next?
Following the assessment, you will receive:
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A comprehensive written report, outlining the assessment process, findings, and outcome
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A summary letter for use with employers, universities, or other services
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One to two feedback sessions, where we talk through the outcome and consider next steps
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Whether or not a diagnosis is given, the aim is for you to come away with a clearer understanding of yourself and helpful recommendations for moving forward.
FAQs
This varies depending on individual circumstances, but the process is carried out at a pace that works for you, allowing time for reflection and discussion. At minimum, you should expect the assessment to take 6 weeks.
Where possible, this is recommended as it helps build a fuller picture of early development. However, we can discuss options if this is not available.
Not everyone who seeks an assessment will meet the criteria for autism. If this is the case, we will discuss this openly and consider alternative explanationsand helpful next steps.
Assessments are conducted in line with NICE guidelines and based on current clinical best practice. Assessment outcomes are shared with GPs, so that any relevant diagnosis or outcome be recorded on your medical record.
You can arrange a free initial consultation to explore what autism means to you and to ask any questions about the process.
Autism assessments are charged at a flat rate of £1700. This fee includes all parts of the process described above – there are no additional charges.
Ready to take the first step?
If what you’ve read resonates with you, you're very welcome to get in touch. I will get back to you as quickly as I can.
A relaxed, no-pressure conversation to see if this feels right for you.
I am unable to provide emergency support. If you are in a crisis please contact emergency services or your GP.