When you or your child is being assessed for autism, you may have 1 or more appointments with 1 or more different professionals. These professionals work together as a team. The amount of time it takes depends on your autistic experiences and who does the assessment.
How to get an autism assessment
Autism assessments for children
The assessment team may:
- ask you about your child's development, when they started talking, walking and how they interact with others
- ask you how your child is doing right now and if you have any concerns
- ask you or your child's teacher to complete a questionnaire about your child
- watch how your child interacts with others, how they communicate and they play
- read any reports about your child from school, your GP or other health professionals
- visit your child's school to watch them in a familiar setting
Autism assessments for adults
The assessment team may:
- talk to you in an interview
- ask you to complete a questionnaire about yourself
- talk to someone who knew you as a child to learn about your childhood development
- read any reports from your GP about other health conditions you may have
Assessment reports
When the assessment is complete, you'll get a report. It will state if you or your child has autism, does not have autism, or if it is unclear at this stage.
The report will tell you:
- you or your child's strengths and experiences
- what you or your child might need help with and what service can provide this support
- if the team observed signs of other conditions, such as ADHD, that may need further assessment
Ask the assessment team to explain the report if you need any help. They will also tell you what you need to do next.
Newly diagnosed with autism
People react to a diagnosis of autism in different ways.
Parents or people who were expecting an autism diagnosis are often relieved because:
- it helps them access support, services and educational placements
- they now understand why they, or their child thinks, feels and acts the way they do
Remember:
- help and support is available
- you or your child are still the same person as before
- autism is not an illness or disease
- focus on what you or your child are good at by using a strengths-based approach
Professional support for autistic children
If your child is diagnosed with autism, the assessment team will recommend the services they need.
This might include:
- Primary Care
- Local Children's Disability Network Team (CDNT)
- Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) if they need help with moderate to severe mental health difficulties
Professional support for autistic adults
If you are an adult who is assessed as being autistic, you should be directed to autism-informed professionals such as:
- Psychologists
- Psychiatrists
- Occupational Therapists
- Speech and Language Therapists
These professionals can help you understand your strengths and challenges. They can also provide coping strategies tailored to your needs.