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AUTISM ASSESSMENT AND DIAGNOSIS
for Adults
Quick Summary
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Specialist adult autism assessments
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Multi-disciplinary, NHS and NICE-compliant approach
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Gold-standard tools (ADI-R, ADOS-2)
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Clear diagnosis with detailed report
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Practical recommendations and ongoing support
Do You Think You Might Be Autistic?
Many adults seek an assessment because they:
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Feel “different” or misunderstood
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Find social situations difficult or exhausting
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Prefer routine and predictability
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Experience sensory sensitivities
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Have struggled with anxiety or relationships
👉 A formal assessment is the only way to know for sure—and can bring clarity and understanding.
What is Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC)?
Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition that affects:
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Social relationships
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Communication
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Behaviour and flexibility
Key Points
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Autism exists on a spectrum
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It can present differently in each person
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It often appears differently in men and women
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Many people are diagnosed later in life
Common Signs in Adults
1. Social Relationships
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Difficulty understanding what others think or feel
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Anxiety in social situations
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Difficulty making or maintaining friendships
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Preference for being alone
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Difficulty with personal space
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Strong need for routine
2. Communication
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May appear blunt, direct, or uninterested (unintentionally)
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Difficulty expressing or identifying emotions
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Taking language literally
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Repetition of words or phrases (echolalia)
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Avoiding eye contact
3. Emotional Understanding & Behaviour
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Difficulty adapting communication style to situations
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Sensory sensitivities (noise, light, textures, etc.)
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Rigid thinking or behaviour patterns
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Over- or under-reacting emotionally
Other Common Traits
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Intense or focused interests
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Repetitive behaviours
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Difficulty coping with change
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Over- or under-sensitivity to sensory input
Why Consider a Diagnosis?
A diagnosis can help you:
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Understand yourself and your experiences
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Make sense of past challenges
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Access appropriate support and services
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Improve relationships and communication
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Request reasonable adjustments at work or education
👉 It can also help others better understand your needs.
Is It Worth Getting Diagnosed?
Many people find that a diagnosis:
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Provides clarity and validation
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Corrects previous misdiagnoses
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Helps access the right support
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Improves confidence and self-understanding
How is Autism Diagnosed?
We follow best practice guidance from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) and use gold-standard tools.
Assessment Process ( Overview)
Step 1: Initial Screening
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Questionnaires completed by you and someone who knows you well
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90-minute clinical interview
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Decision made on whether full assessment is appropriate
Step 2: Diagnostic Interview
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In-depth exploration of your developmental history
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Use of tools such as ADI-R
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Usually completed over two sessions
Step 3: Diagnostic Observation (ADOS-2)
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Structured assessment of communication and interaction
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Conducted by a specialist clinician
Step 4: Multi-Disciplinary Review
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All information reviewed by the team
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Diagnostic decision made
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Comprehensive report prepared
Step 5: Feedback Session
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Clear explanation of results
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Opportunity to ask questions
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Personalised recommendations discussed
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Final report provided
Step 6: Post-Diagnostic Support - see our SPC and Therapy page
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Follow-up sessions available
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Practical strategies for daily life
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Guidance for work, relationships, and wellbeing
Support After Diagnosis
It's common for many adults with autism to experience mental health and wellbeing challenges such as:
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Anxiety
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OCD
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Depression and low mood
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Relationship issues
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Low self-esteem
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Trauma-related difficulties
Support can include:
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Therapy and psychological support/coaching
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Communication and social skills strategies
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Workplace or education adjustments
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Practical coping strategies
👉 While there is no “cure,” the right support can significantly improve quality of life.
Key Takeaways
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Autism is lifelong—but understanding it can be life-changing
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Many adults are diagnosed later in life
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A diagnosis provides clarity, not just a label
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Support can make everyday life easier
Next Step
If you think you may be autistic, a professional assessment is the most reliable way to find out. We provide a supportive, respectful, and thorough process to help you gain clarity and move forward with confidence.
We’re here to guide you through every step—clearly, sensitively, and without pressure.