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An Autism assessment can offer several benefits, including validation, a sense of belonging, workplace accommodations, as well as improved quality of life and mental health.
1,750
£
Adult Autism Assessment
What is Autism?
Autism is a developmental difference that affects how a person experiences the world, particularly in areas like social interaction, communication, sensory processing, and behaviour. People with autism often have unique strengths and challenges. Autism is often referred to as a 'Spectrum' as it presents differently in every individual.
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Autism can be considered a type of neurodiversity. Neurodiversity is a concept that recognises neurological differences, such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and others, as natural variations of the human brain rather than 'conditions' that need to be 'fixed.' This perspective values the diverse ways people think and process information.
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When we consider autism and neurodiversity together, it suggests that being autistic is a way of being and is not
inherently defective or disordered. This approach encourages acceptance, inclusion, and support.
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The Autism Pathway is passionate about embracing neurodiversity and difference.
Core features of Autism
Differences in Language and Communication:
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Valuing deep and meaningful conversations as opposed to 'small talk'
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Having a direct and honest approach to interactions
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Wanting to share lots of detailed knowledge about interests and passions
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Sensory speech (e.g. repeating details or shifting topics)
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Preferring not to sustain eye contact
Preferring to use words instead of gestures or facial expressions
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Differences in Social Relationships and Emotions:
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Peer relationships can be a source of stress and uncertainty
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Preference for small numbers of friends (e.g. one-to-one interactions)
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Finding group situations overwhelming
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Difficulties identifying and managing emotions
Sensory Preferences and Interests:
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Having one or more passions or interests that lead to intense focus
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Having exceptional skills for recalling facts, building, logical thinking, or categorising
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Sensory aversions (e.g. to noise, light, temperature, food, clothes)
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Enjoying repetitive body movements
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Preferring routine, structure and planning
The Autism Pathway recognises an individual's strengths as well as differences and challenges.
Strengths of Autism:
Great Attention to Detail leading to a thorough and metilulous approach to tasks.
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Honest and Integrity driven by a strong sense of morality and trustworthiness.
Dependability driven by a desire for routines and structure.
Creativity due to an ability to "think outside the box".
What to expect from an Adult Autism assessment with us
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1. Screening Information
The first step of our assessment process is to complete some screening information so that we can find out more about you and determine together if an assessment is the right next step. It's also an opportunity for you to ask more about our assessments and let us know of any needs or preferences you may have. This can be done by telephone or via a form.
2. Questionnaires
We will ask you to complete Questionnaires that screen for autism and highlight your skills. These include the Autism Quotient (AQ), Empathy Quotient (EQ), Camouflaging Autistic Traits Questionnaire (CAT-Q) and a strengths questionnaire. If you agree, a Developmental Questionnaire will also be sent to an informant (e.g., a parent, sibling or spouse). These can easily be completed online or, if you prefer, via Word.
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2. Clinical Interview
We will talk with you online to explore your experiences regarding communication styles, friendships, relationships, school, employment, emotions, behaviours, and sensory needs. An Important part is also discussing your strengths, skills, preferences and passions.
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3. ADOS-2 Observation Face-to-Face or Online Alternative Observation
For face-to-face assessments, we will use the (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule) ADOS-2, which is a mixture of talking and task-based activities. This can be completed face-to-face. If you prefer to have an Online observation, we can also arrange this.
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4. Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) Meeting
Once all the assessments are complete, an MDT meeting will be held to review all the information gathered. The information will be considered alongside the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria to conclude.
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5. Outcome & Feedback
You will receive a copy of the full report to read at your own pace. We will then arrange an online feedback meeting with a clinician you met previously to review the findings and discuss the recommendations for the 'next steps'. We can also offer a summary report if this is helpful.
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Support
Our reports will outline recommendations for next steps following your assessment.
This may include signposting to relevant services, including those that can help with empowerment and the development of a positive autistic identity and sense of belonging.
Suggestions for educational (e.g. university) and workplace accommodations. We will also provide information about specific things that come up during your assessment (e.g., emotion regulation, communication preferences and sensory differences).
These supports aim to help you cope with daily challenges, enabling you to gain confidence and thrive.
