What happens if I’m not diagnosed with Autism?

We understand that not receiving a diagnosis can lead to a range of complex emotions. There can be a broad range of reasons for this outcome. It may be the case that our clinicians feel that the person’s experiences are best explained by an alternative condition that requires further exploration. Alternatively in the case of young children it may be that there is not currently enough evidence that they meet the specific criteria we assess against, but that in future this may be the case as they develop and have new life experiences. Whatever the outcome, you will have the opportunity to explore this further with your lead clinician in our post diagnostic support sessions.

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Can you assess for ADHD?

We do not currently offer assessment for ADHD, but have links with relevant organisations that we can refer to if required.

 

I’m not sure if going through the assessment process is right for me… can I talk it over with someone first?

Absolutely! We welcome an initial discussion and our first consultation is free of charge and with no obligation to proceed. We can help you explore what you are experiencing and whether further assessment is an appropriate course of action.

 

I am very nervous about the assessments, can I bring someone with me for support?

Yes, you are welcome to bring someone with you for support. However, within the formal assessment sessions it is important that whoever you bring for support does not answer questions on your behalf or influence any of the practical tasks involved. Part of the assessment relates to how people communicate and interact socially so it is important that this is free from outside influences to ensure the accuracy of the assessment.

 

I have/my child has specific sensory needs. Can these be accommodated?

Yes. We have an Occupational Therapist with sensory experience within our team who can advise on this and are happy to work with you to ensure you feel as comfortable as possible during assessments.

 

I have difficulty reading/writing. Are the screening forms available in an alternative format?

Yes. We can provide easy read versions of documents tailored to your needs. Alternatively we can support you to complete the forms by telephone call or online via Zoom.

 

How long does the process take?

Following initial contact to completion of the full report we anticipate this taking around 2-3 weeks. This allows for the initial consultation, completion of pre-assessment screening forms, the two formal assessments and the final assessment report. We also facilitate an outcome discussion session and a follow up appointment after 4 weeks. We understand that it may take some time to process your new diagnosis. Therefore we offer a follow up appointment to provide you with additional support and help you to identify the next steps. Please refer to our assessment process link for further information on these stages.

 

How long is your waiting list?

We are currently able to schedule initial consultations within one week of receiving your referral.

 

When are you able to offer appointments?

We currently offer appointments on Monday and Wednesday evenings, and daytime appointments on Friday and Saturday.

 

Do I have to be referred by my GP or my child’s school?

No. While we welcome referrals from other professionals, we are happy to accept self-referrals from individuals.

 

Will I get a report that I can share with my child’s school/my employer?

Yes. We provide a thorough diagnostic report which will confirm the outcome clearly, outline what we observed in all stages of the assessment process, the individual’s needs as well as their particular strengths. We may make some initial recommendations for interventions to explore or offer referral to other services where appropriate.

 

Will these assessments give me an “official” diagnosis?

Yes - we follow all criteria set out by NICE (National Institute of Clinical Excellence) which is responsible for setting out how all healthcare practice should be delivered. We use formal assessment tools such as the ADOS-2 and ADI-R which are considered the gold standard when it comes to Autism assessment, alongside detailed background information gathering to ensure there is sufficient evidence to formulate a diagnosis based on the diagnostic criteria specified. We operate as a multi-disciplinary team of appropriately trained and experienced clinicians.

 

Do you guarantee a diagnosis?

No - we are ethically bound to assess for autism independently according to the criteria set out as indicated above. It is crucial to the best interests of individuals being assessed that a diagnosis is only given where we are confident that this is appropriate. To give a diagnosis when this is not the case could lead to alternative explanations for a person’s difficulties being missed and them not receiving the appropriate support or treatment. It would also lead to services for people with autism being put under further unnecessary pressure.

 

Useful links: 

National Autistic Society: https://www.autism.org.uk/

Autistica: https://www.autistica.org.uk/

The Autism Education Trust: https://www.autismeducationtrust.org.uk/

Dimensions UK: https://dimensions-uk.org/

Scope: https://www.scope.org.uk/

Mencap: https://www.mencap.org.uk/

NHS website: https://www.england.nhs.uk/learning-disabilities/about/autism/au

Autism Apprentice: Autism Apprentice | The Autism Apprentice CIC

Zeno Therapy: https://zenotherapy.co.uk/