Autism Identification for Adults
Understanding first. Meaning always.
Autism identification at Neurothriversity is about more than reaching a conclusion. It is about developing clear, grounded understanding — of lifelong patterns, strengths, needs, and how a person’s mind and nervous system have adapted over time.
The word diagnosis comes from the ancient Greek gnosis, meaning knowledge. In that spirit, autism identification here is a process of coming to know — not of being reduced to criteria. The aim is to create the spark of self-understanding that can help set a meaningful, individualised course for autistic wellbeing.
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How the assessment works
Autism identification is formulation-led, drawing together several strands of assessment information rather than relying on any single test or score. This typically includes:
- A detailed developmental and contextual history, including strengths, challenges, adaptations and key life transitions
- A neuro-affirming, person-led assessment
- Thoughtful consideration of differential explanations, including mental health, trauma, stress and neurodevelopmental overlap.
- Clear feedback that supports understanding, and next steps
Assessments are conducted in line with relevant national guidance, including NICE recommendations, and informed by current evidence, clinical judgement and neuro-affirming practice.
Where helpful, I work collaboratively with local partners, including Laura Elliott — Specialist Occupational Therapist and Sensory Integration Practitioner — as part of a flexible MDT approach.
Our service is particularly suited to identifying and supporting Autistic adults who may have been overlooked, masked their traits, or felt misunderstood in standard pathways. We aim to create a psychologically safe and identity-affirming environment, recognising each person’s unique experiences.
Reflective use of assessment tools
Where structured tools are used, they are applied reflectively and thoughtfully, within an overarching neuro=affirming approach, and as aids to understanding informed by the individual’s own experiences and story.
For example, I may use the MIGDAS-2 (Monteiro Interview Guidelines for Diagnosing the Autism Spectrum) as part of the assessment. MIGDAS-2 offers a structured, sensory-based, narrative-informed way of exploring autistic experience across social communication, relationships, emotional responses, sensory processing, and focused interests.
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Your Autism Assessment Journey
Below is a step-by-step outline of the assessment process. This process is flexible and can be adjusted to meet your individual needs and communication preferences.
- A 30-minute consultation to explore your needs, aligned with your communication preferences (e.g., phone, video call, email).
- Discussion of whether an autism assessment is appropriate for you.
- If the assessment goes ahead, you will receive:
- Pre-Assessment Questionnaire (to complete before your first appointment), e.g. interests, developmental history, physical and mental health history.
- Information about the assessment process and what to expect.
- Reasonable adjustments (accommodations) questionnaire to make the assessment as accessible as possible.
- The assessor will review your responses before your first appointment to understand your experiences and any reasonable adjustments you may need.
- Confirm your choice as to whether an informant (someone who knows you well) will be involved.
An opportunity to:
- Confirm consent to proceed.
- Answer any questions you have.
- Initial exploration of why the possibility of being autistic arose and what it means to you.
- Follow up on pre-assessment information to better understand your particular story.
- Begin gathering assessment information using the MIGDAS-2.
- Completion of assessment information gathering using the MIGDAS-2.
- May also include additional input from an Occupational Therapist (OT) or Speech & Language Therapist (SLT), if relevant.
- A full review of all the different sources of assessment information, mapped against the DSM-V autism diagnostic criteria
- Consideration of whether autism is the best explanation for your experiences.
- Multidisciplinary discussion where needed.
- Discussion of findings and recommendations.
- A written assessment report summarizing your strengths and needs.
- If autism is confirmed, discussion about what this means for you and next steps.
- A dedicated session to reflect on your identification as autistic.
- Exploring what this means for you and how to live well as an autistic person.
- Discussion of any further support you may need.
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Fees for Adult Autism Assessment
I aim to be transparent about costs and to reduce barriers to accessing assessment wherever possible.
All autism assessments are conducted by a Clinical Psychologist and are neuro-affirming, adult-appropriate, and aligned with NICE guidance.
Assessment Pathway and Fees
Initial Screening and Consultation — Free (£0)
An initial conversation to discuss what has led you to seek an assessment, outline the process, your priorities, questions, and any concerns, and identify any adjustments or accommodations that would help the assessment process work well for you.
This appointment is offered free of charge so you can decide whether an assessment feels right for you.
Comprehensive Diagnostic Assessment — £800
A full adult autism assessment, usually involving 2–3 sessions. This includes an in-depth clinical interview, exploration of autistic identity, masking, strengths and support needs, and consideration of alternative explanations where relevant.
Informant input is welcomed where available but is not required.
Diagnostic Decision, Report and Follow-Up — £700
Integration of assessment information and diagnostic decision-making, preparation of a detailed written report suitable for workplace, education and benefits contexts, and a feedback appointment.
This also includes one post-diagnostic follow-up session to support understanding and next steps.
Total cost for a full autism assessment: £1,500
Optional Additional Support
Additional post-diagnostic sessions, support letters or report addenda can be arranged if needed.
£120 per session / per hour
Paying for an Assessment
Fees are discussed clearly in advance, and no payment is required until you have decided to proceed following the initial consultation.
The full fee can be paid as a single payment if that feels simplest for you.
If spreading the cost over time would be more manageable, we can also discuss staged payment options linked to different parts of the assessment process.
If you have questions about costs, timing, or whether an assessment is right for you, you are welcome to get in touch before booking
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the assessment process take?
Most people complete the process within a few weeks. The pace is guided by your needs — thorough enough to be meaningful, without unnecessary delay. Timelines can vary depending on individual needs.
Do I need a family member or person I know well involved?
While it can be helpful to include someone who knows you well, it is not essential. Your own account of your experiences is central.
Can the assessment be done fully online?
Yes. Assessments can be adapted to be fully online, in person, or a mix of both, depending on your preferences, accessibility needs and comfort.
What if I have difficulty completing the pre-assessment questionnaire?
If written forms are difficult, we can adapt the process. Options include:
- Talking through responses in an appointment
• Using voice recordings or bullet points
• Getting support from a trusted person
We will work in a way that fits how you communicate best.
What happens if I am not identified as autistic?
The goal is understanding. If autism is not identified, we will still explore meaningful explanations for your experiences. We will discuss alternative formulations and supportive options that align with your needs.
If you have other questions, you’re welcome to get in touch before deciding whether an assessment feels right for you.
Pre-Assessment Questionnaire
Before your first appointment, you’ll be invited to complete a short questionnaire.
This helps us understand your experiences in your own words and ensures our time together is focused and meaningful.
Next Steps
If you have any questions before your first appointment, please reach out via our Contact Page. We look forward to supporting you through this process. We’re here to support you throughout the process.