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What is Autism?

Autism, or Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), is a natural variation in how people experience the world. It influences how individuals communicate, interact, and process information. Autism is not a disorder to be "fixed" but a different way of thinking, feeling, and perceiving. As a spectrum, it presents uniquely in each person—some may need more support in daily life, while others navigate the world independently.

Common autistic traits include differences in social communication, sensory processing, and a strong preference for routine. Many autistic individuals also have deep passions and strengths in specific areas, bringing creativity, focus, and unique perspectives to their lives and work.

If you’re wondering whether you or someone you know might be autistic, a private assessment can offer clarity and a deeper understanding of individual strengths and needs.

Autistic Traits: A Closer Look

💬 Social Interaction & Communication
Autistic individuals often experience communication in a way that differs from neurotypical expectations. This can include challenges in reading social cues, navigating small talk, or maintaining eye contact. However, many thrive in deep, meaningful conversations and prefer direct, honest communication.

🔄 Routine & Predictability
A strong preference for structure and routine is common. Unexpected changes can feel overwhelming, while predictable environments provide comfort and stability. Many autistic individuals develop intense interests, allowing them to excel in their chosen fields.

🌍 Sensory Processing
Autism can heighten or diminish sensory experiences—lights may seem too bright, sounds too loud, or certain textures overwhelming. Others may seek sensory input, finding comfort in movement, deep pressure, or specific sounds. Understanding these needs can help create an environment where autistic individuals feel comfortable and supported.

At our practice, we offer private autism assessments that are thorough, respectful, and neuroaffirmative. If you have any questions or would like to explore whether an assessment is right for you, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

How to Get an Autism Assessment

Seeking an autism assessment can feel like a big step, but we’re here to guide you through the process with clarity and care. Below, we outline each stage of our private autism assessment to help you understand what to expect. If you have any questions along the way, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Step 1: Initial Consultation

Before your assessment, we will ask you to complete some short questionnaires. During the initial consultation, one of our clinicians will explore your experiences, what has led you to seek an autism assessment, and how we can best support you.

This session is also an opportunity to ask any questions and ensure that an autism assessment is the right choice for you. In some cases, we may recommend waiting until a more appropriate time or suggest alternative support options. If this applies to you, your clinician will discuss this with you in a supportive and transparent way.

Step 2: Private Autism Assessment

Our assessments use gold-standard diagnostic tools to ensure a thorough and compassionate approach:

  • The ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule): Conducted in person with two clinicians, this structured assessment lasts around one hour and helps us understand how autism may present for you. Our clinicians will co-score this assessment to ensure accuracy.

  • The ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview): A detailed developmental history is gathered from someone who knew you well during early childhood, such as a parent or guardian. This can take place via phone or video call and lasts approximately two hours. If you do not have someone available for this part of the assessment, please let us know so we can discuss alternative options.

We may also ask follow-up questions over email or phone and use additional questionnaires where needed to build a complete picture of your experiences.

Step 3: Feedback Session

Once your assessment is complete, we will discuss the results with you during a one-hour video session.

This is when we will share whether the assessment indicates a diagnosis of autism. Many people find it helpful to have a family member, partner, or friend join this session for support.

Step 4: Your Report

Following your feedback session, you will receive a detailed written report summarising the assessment findings. We aim to provide a first copy within six weeks of your initial assessment appointment.

  • If you are happy with the report, this will be your final copy.

  • If you would like any amendments, you can request these in writing within two weeks of receiving your report. We will provide a revised version within two weeks of your request.

By default, we send a copy of your report to your GP. If you would prefer not to, or if you’d like to discuss this further, please let us know in advance.

Step 5: Follow-Up Support

Understanding an autism diagnosis can take time, and you may have further questions after your assessment. If you would like to discuss your results in more detail, we offer one or two follow-up sessions at a sessional rate.

If you are interested in any further support or therapeutic work, please let us know, and we can explore the best next steps for you.

How Much Does a Private Autism Assessment Cost?

We understand that seeking an autism assessment is an important decision, and we aim to provide a transparent breakdown of our fees. Below is the cost of each stage of the assessment process:

  • Initial Consultation (50 minutes) – £300
    This session helps determine whether a full autism assessment is appropriate for you. If an assessment is recommended and you require a letter for your insurer, this will be included in the fee.

  • Full Autism Assessment, Feedback Session & Report – £1,950
    This includes the ADOS-2 assessment, ADI-R interview, scoring and analysis by two clinicians, a detailed diagnostic report, and a one-hour feedback session.

  • Follow-Up Support Sessions (50 minutes) – £130
    If you would like further support after your assessment, we offer follow-up sessions to discuss your diagnosis, next steps, or additional guidance tailored to your needs.

If you have any questions about the process or fees, please feel free to get in touch. We’re happy to help.

Why Choose Us?

Choosing the right team for your autism assessment is an important decision. Here’s why you can trust us to provide a high-quality, compassionate, and evidence-based approach:

  • Expert Clinicians with NHS Experience
    Our clinicians have extensive experience conducting autism assessments within the NHS and adhere to national guidelines in our private practice. This ensures that our assessments meet the highest professional standards.

  • Gold-Standard Diagnostic Tools
    We use the ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule) and ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview), which are widely recognised as the most reliable tools for diagnosing autism.

  • A Compassionate and Neuroaffirmative Approach
    We understand that seeking an autism assessment can feel overwhelming. Our team creates a supportive and validating space, recognising and respecting the diversity of autistic experiences.

  • Comprehensive and Individualised Reports
    Our detailed assessment reports are tailored to your unique experiences, providing valuable insights and recommendations to support you beyond the diagnosis.

  • Clear, Transparent Process
    We ensure that you understand each step of the assessment process, providing clear communication and ongoing support.

If you’re considering an autism assessment and would like to learn more, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’re happy to answer any questions and guide you through the process.