Autism Identification for Adults

A thorough, affirming, and respectful assessment process designed to help adults understand their autistic identity in a way that feels validating and empowering. Our approach prioritizes lived experience and the diversity of autistic presentation.

Understanding Autism & the Assessment Process

Autism is a natural difference in how people think, process information, and experience the world. Some autistic people may identify with challenges related to communication, sensory processing, routines, and social interactions, while others experience strengths in focus, creativity, and deep interests. Everyone’s experience of autism is unique.

The autism assessment is designed to explore your individual profile, strengths, and any challenges you may experience. The process is collaborative, meaning you will be involved in discussions and decision-making at every stage.

What the Assessment Involves:

  • Understanding your developmental history and current experiences.
  • Observing how you communicate and interact in a way that feels comfortable for you.
  • Identifying patterns that may suggest autism and ruling out other possible explanations.
  • Offering feedback, discussion, and support to help you understand the outcome.

The goal is to help you gain clarity about yourself and your experiences, whether or not an autism diagnosis is confirmed.

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.

[To be converted to flow chart]

1️⃣ Initial Contact & Consultation

  • 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.

2️⃣ Referral Accepted & Pre-Assessment Pack Sent

  • If the assessment goes ahead, you will receive:
  • Pre-Assessment Questionnaire (to complete before your first appointment).
  • Information about the assessment process and what to expect.
  • This flowchart outlining the steps.

3️⃣ Pre-Assessment Questionnaire Returned & Reviewed

  • The assessor will review your responses before your first appointment to understand your experiences and any accommodations you may need.

4️⃣ Initial Appointment (45 minutes). In-person or online, depending on your preference. An opportunity to:

  • Confirm consent to proceed.
  • Answer any questions you have.
  • Confirm whether an informant (someone who knows you well) will be involved.

5️⃣ Developmental History Questionnaire Sent

  • This can be completed by you and/or someone who knows your early life history well (e.g., a family member).

6️⃣ Developmental History Appointment (45 minutes). In-person, online, or by phone.

  • Discussion of childhood and early development, if information is available.

7️⃣ Observational Assessment (90 minutes)

  • Using the MIGDAS-2 (an autism assessment tool).
  • May also include additional input from an Occupational Therapist (OT) or Speech & Language Therapist (SLT), if relevant.

8️⃣ Diagnostic Decision-Making

  • A full review of all assessment information.
  • Consideration of whether autism is the best explanation for your experiences.
  • Multidisciplinary discussion if needed.

9️⃣ Assessment Feedback Session (30 minutes)

  • 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.

🔟 Post-Identification Support Session (60 minutes)

  • 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the assessment process take?

The length of the process varies depending on availability, but it typically takes several weeks to a few months from initial consultation to feedback.

Do I need to have an informant?

While it can be helpful to have someone who knows you well provide information, it is not essential. The assessment can still proceed without this if developmental history is unavailable.

Can the assessment be done fully online?

Yes! The assessment can be adapted to be fully remote or a mix of online and in-person, depending on your needs and preferences.

What if I have difficulty completing the pre-assessment questionnaire?

If you find written forms difficult, you can provide answers in another way, such as:

  • Talking through responses in an appointment.
  • Using voice recordings or bullet points.
  • Getting support from a trusted person to complete it.

What happens if I am not identified as autistic?

If autism is not identified, we will discuss other possible explanations for your experiences and suggest alternative support options.

Pre-Assessment Questionnaire

A separate document is provided for you to complete and return before your first appointment.

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.