Autism Assessment
It can feel daunting making the decision to seek an autism assessment.
It can be equally as daunting continuing to wonder if you,
or someone you care about has autism.
Our goal at Autism 360 is to give you all the information about the diagnosis journey that will help you to make an informed decision about autism assessments.
We want to make the assessment experience as comfortable as possible. To help with this, we have outlined all stages of the autism process, so there are no hidden surprises.
We hope that if you choose to seek an autism assessment, that you consider Autism 360, for a person centred approach that sees you as a whole person, and not just a diagnosis.
How is autism assessed?
At Autism 360 we follow national, and international guidance on the most reliable way to assess autism. This ensures the service we offer is evidence based and of the highest standard. It also makes the diagnostic decisions defensible, so you can be reassured by the outcome of your assessment.
To begin the autism process, We will ask you to complete background information.
This helps us to understand more about you, how long you may have experienced any difficulties, and learn about what you were like in childhood.
This is important for us to understand, as autism is a neurodevelopmental condition, meaning that it is present in childhood, though it may become more apparent as people get older and have more influence over their own environment.
In the assessment, our clinicians use the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS), (2nd edition).
We use ADOS module three for children and ADOS module 4 for adolescents and adults.
Where we also undertake discussions with parent/guardians we use the Autism Diagnostic Inventory–Revised (ADI-R).
We use the diagnostic classification of ICD-11 (International Classification of Diseases-11), which is recognised for use within the UK.
You may have heard of the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders– 5).
This is a US version of a diagnostic classification.
Whilst referred to in the UK, best practice is to follow ICD-11 for UK assessments.
There are very few differences between ICD-11 and DSM-5.
We also follow NHS England guidance specifically outlining best practice in autism assessment services (published April 2023).
Choosing an Autism 360 assessment is therefore choosing a safe, effective and informed service.
Reasonable adjustments
At Autism 360 we want you to feel comfortable in the assessment.
Please let us know if there is anything specific you would like us to take on board to adapt the way in which we support you through the autism process. This may include;
- Adjustments for hearing or sight needs.
- Acommodations for anxiety.
- Breaks to support concentration.
Support
You may want to talk to those important to you for support during your autism journey. Letting someone know you are considering an assessment can be reassuring for you. They can even sit in the assessment for support if you want them to. They would not take part in the assessment itself, but would be there to give you reassurance if needed.