Adult Autism Assessment Process

Our adult autism assessments follow a gold-standard, multidisciplinary diagnostic pathway, aligned with DSM-5 diagnostic criteria and current best-practice guidance.

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The process typically includes:

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1. Initial Assessment & Background Information

You will be asked to complete an initial questionnaire exploring:

• Reason for referral

• Current strengths, worries, and behaviours

• Mental health and risk considerations

• Pregnancy, birth, and early developmental history (where known)

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2. Developmental Interview

A detailed 2–3 hour structured clinical interview, completed online via video call. Depending on individual circumstances, this will be either:

• Autism Diagnostic Interview – Revised (ADI-R), or

• ACIA (Adult Clinical Interview for Autism)

This interview explores early development, communication, social interaction, relationships, routines, sensory experiences, and lifelong patterns of behaviour.

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3. Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2)

A structured observational assessment lasting approximately 1.5 hours, completed face-to-face or online with Tania Richards (Speech and Language Therapist).

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4. Informant Questionnaire (if applicable)

Where appropriate, a partner, relative or close friend questionnaire is used to gather an additional perspective on developmental history and current presentation.

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5. Multidisciplinary Team Review

Once all information has been gathered, findings are reviewed within a multidisciplinary team, and carefully considered against DSM-5 diagnostic criteria.

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6. Written Diagnostic Report

A comprehensive written report is provided, detailing:

• Diagnostic conclusions

• Clinical formulation

• Personalised recommendations for support, adjustments, and next steps

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7. Feedback Appointment

You will be offered a 30-minute feedback session, during which the outcome of the assessment is explained clearly, with time for questions and discussion.

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