Private Autism Assessment

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurological condition people are born with, and it often runs in families. Understanding ASD is crucial for an accurate adult autism diagnosis, which can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals on the spectrum.

It seems likely that 1% of the population has ASD, which means in the UK, some 700,000 people are living with it. If you have it, you were born with it, which means your symptoms will have been there from a very young age.

It is not caused by bad parenting, eating too much sugar or junk food, or playing video games all the time. This is a picture of a functional MRI scan (a scan that shows brain activity), and it shows that the brain of a person with ASD looks quite different from that of a person who is not autistic. This points to the actual biological basis of autism.

It often runs in families (often with ADHD and other conditions), so it is hereditary and it is genetic. Extensive genetic studies have revealed hundreds of genes linked to autism, and we are not clear what exactly the impact of any genetic background is. Nor can we predict if someone with ASD will pass it on to any children.

These vary immensely from one individual to another and no autistic person is the same as another. The symptoms can be categorised in certain ‘domains', or areas of daily functioning, such as:

• Communication
• Social interaction
• Behaviours and routines
• Obsessional interests
• Sensitivities in certain senses, e.g. hearing, seeing, feeling and so on

Some symptoms will be recognisable throughout life, but others may vary: many people with ASD learn how to ‘mask’ certain symptoms or deficits.
For instance, someone may learn how to show empathy or sympathy by observing others. There are unfortunate caricatures of autism being banded about, and certain films have led people sometimes to think that if you don’t look like ‘Rainman’, you can’t be autistic.

This is nonsense: autistic people vary as much as non-autistic people. Quite a few autistic people will, for instance, report that they feel other people’s problems intensely, sometimes to the point of experiencing physical pain. And some of those may try to protect themselves from this distress by being less empathetic.

People say the symptoms are different if you are male or female. While there might be a difference in what it looks like at a cursory glance, in fact, there is often no clear difference.

There is no blood test for ASD, and scans are not precise enough and are not of any use when diagnosing someone (although that may change in the future). We offer private assessments for diagnosis by asking about a range of symptoms, how severe they are and how long you have had them. For instance, if all your symptoms started when you were 20 and you never had them before, then whatever it is, it is not autism.

We use certain structured interviews and questionnaires, such as the Ritvo Autism Asperger Diagnostic Scale (RAADS), which captures symptoms and signs in various areas of daily functioning.

The scale is thoroughly validated in extensive research studies, and in statistical terms, it approaches a similar level of diagnostic certainty as one might expect from a blood test for other conditions, as long as it is interpreted by a specialist who can appraise the clinically relevant characteristics of the person being assessed.

A private autism assessment is a comprehensive evaluation process designed to determine whether an individual has Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Typically conducted by a multidisciplinary team of professionals, including a clinical psychologist, psychiatrist, or other specialists with expertise in autism diagnosis, the assessment aims to provide a thorough understanding of the individual’s condition.

During the assessment, the individual will undergo a series of evaluations, including:

• Clinical Interviews: These involve detailed discussions with the individual to gather information about their developmental history, behaviour, and experiences. This helps in understanding the nuances of their daily functioning and any challenges they face.
• Observation: The assessment team may observe the individual’s behaviour, social interactions, and communication patterns in various settings. This can provide valuable insights into how they navigate social situations and respond to different stimuli.
• Questionnaires and Rating Scales: Both the individual and their family members or caregivers may be asked to complete questionnaires and rating scales. These tools help in capturing a broader picture of the individual’s behaviours and experiences from multiple perspectives.
• Diagnostic Tests: Standardized diagnostic tests, such as the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) or the Autism Diagnostic Interview (ADI), may be used to evaluate the individual’s symptoms and behaviours. These tests are designed to be thorough and provide a reliable basis for diagnosis.

The assessment process is designed to be comprehensive and thorough, often taking several hours or even days to complete. The goal is to provide an accurate diagnosis and recommendations for treatment and support, ensuring that the individual receives the appropriate care and resources.

The overall cost of a private autism assessment can vary depending on several factors, including the location, type of assessment, and the professionals involved.

You can see the fee we charge for an autism assessment on our fees page.

It’s important to note that some private health insurance companies may cover part or all of the cost of a private autism assessment. It’s recommended to check with your insurance provider to determine the level of coverage available. Understanding the private autism assessment cost upfront can help in planning and making informed decisions about pursuing a private assessment.

In most cases, a referral from a general practitioner (GP) is not necessary to access a private autism assessment. However, consulting with your GP before seeking a private assessment can be beneficial, as they may provide valuable insights and recommendations based on your medical history and current symptoms.

Some private autism assessment providers may require a referral from a GP or another healthcare professional, so it’s essential to check with the provider before scheduling an assessment. This ensures that you meet any specific requirements they may have and can proceed smoothly with the assessment process.

The length of the assessment process can vary depending on the type of assessment and the professionals involved. On average, a private autism assessment can take anywhere from a few hours to several days to complete. The assessment process typically involves several stages, including:

• Initial Consultation: This usually lasts 1-2 hours and involves an initial discussion to understand the individual’s concerns and gather preliminary information.
• Clinical Interviews: These in-depth interviews can take 2-4 hours and are designed to explore the individual’s developmental history, behavior, and experiences in detail.
• Observation: Observing the individual’s behavior and interactions can take 1-2 hours, providing valuable insights into their social and communication patterns.
• Diagnostic Tests: Conducting standardized diagnostic tests, such as the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS), can take 1-2 hours.
• Feedback and Diagnosis: This final stage, lasting 1-2 hours, involves discussing the results of the assessment, providing a diagnosis, and offering recommendations for treatment and support.

Overall, the entire assessment process can take anywhere from 6-12 hours or more, depending on the complexity of the case and the number of professionals involved.

After the assessment process is complete, the individual will receive a comprehensive report outlining the results of the evaluation.

The report will include:

• A Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or Other Conditions: This provides a clear understanding of the individual’s condition and any co-occurring disorders.
• A Description of the Individual’s Strengths and Challenges: Highlighting both strengths and areas of difficulty helps in creating a balanced and supportive approach to treatment and support.
• Recommendations for Treatment and Support: These tailored recommendations are designed to address the individual’s specific needs and may include therapies, interventions, and resources.
• Strategies for Improving Communication, Social Interactions, and Daily Functioning: Practical strategies and tips can help the individual navigate daily life more effectively and improve their overall well-being.

The diagnosis and recommendations will be provided by a qualified professional, such as a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist, who has expertise in autism diagnosis and treatment.

It’s essential to note that a private autism assessment is not a guarantee of a diagnosis, and the results may indicate that the individual does not have ASD. Regardless of the outcome, the assessment process can provide valuable insights and recommendations for improving the individual’s mental health and well-being.

There is no treatment for autism, and in a sense, that is understandable: it is not an illness. Rather, it is a complex situation where someone may have different strengths and weaknesses than, on average, those without autism have, and this is the result of their brain being ‘wired' differently.

The neurological background to autism spectrum disorder is extremely complex: there is not one mechanism or abnormality that is the sole cause: this picture shows how many areas of the brain are thought to be involved:

This picture shows how the brain of some autistic people seems to be able to process what is seen 10 times more powerfully than the brain of a neurotypical person. Still, at the same time, the non-autistic person seems better able to process what is heard (this is just one example and not a constant finding in all autistic people):

Some people see a formal autism diagnosis as an unhelpful label, but for many, getting a thorough assessment and diagnosis may be helpful because:

We offer autism assessments for individuals of all ages, ensuring that everyone has access to the support they need.

It helps people with Asperger syndrome (and their families, partners, employers, colleagues, teachers and friends) to understand why they may experience certain difficulties and what they can do about them.

It allows people to access services and support.

In the UK, private autism assessments are generally accepted, but there are some important considerations:

• NHS Recognition: The National Health Service (NHS) typically recognises private autism assessments, provided they are conducted by qualified professionals using approved diagnostic methods. We are qualified and use approved methods.
• Educational Settings: Schools and universities in the UK often accept private assessments for providing support and accommodations. However, they may have specific requirements or prefer assessments from certain providers.
• Workplace Accommodations: UK employers generally accept private assessments when considering reasonable adjustments under the Equality Act 2010.
• Benefits and Support Services: Government agencies like the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) usually accept private assessments for accessing disability benefits or support services. However, they may require additional evidence or conduct their own assessments in some cases.
• Quality Standards: The assessment should meet the standards set by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines for autism diagnosis.
• Professional Qualifications: The assessment should be carried out by a qualified professional, such as a clinical psychologist, psychiatrist, or a multi-disciplinary team specialising in autism.
• Local Authority Services: Some local authorities may have specific requirements for accepting private assessments, especially when providing support services.
• Insurance Companies: Private health insurance providers in the UK generally accept private assessments, but policies can vary.
  

It's worth noting that private assessments are often quicker to obtain than NHS assessments. Some people opt for private assessments due to long NHS waiting lists. Still, it's always advisable to check with the relevant organisation or institution about their specific requirements for accepting private assessments.

If you're considering a private assessment for a specific purpose, it's recommended to inquire directly with the relevant body (school, employer, local authority, etc.) about their policies on accepting private autism assessments.

There are many resources available for people with ASD and their families, including support groups, advocacy organisations, and educational resources. The National Autistic Society, and Autism Alliance UK are all good places to start for information and support.