Our Autism assessment protocol provides a comprehensive evaluation for diagnosing Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in adults. The assessment process is carried out in three parts to gain a complete understanding of an individual’s behaviours, developmental history, and current functioning, these are outlined below.
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1. Developmental History Assessment
Preceded by a detailed questionnaire, this structured interview typically takes 2-3 hours and is conducted with the patient and if possibly also with a parent or close relative who knew the individual as a child. It focuses on early development, social interactions, communication skills, and specific features of behaviour during childhood. If interviewing someone from childhood isn’t possible, the assessment may be done with an adult who knows the individual well, provided school reports can also be made available to help complete the developmental picture.
2. Observational Assessment
This may be conducted in several ways:
Formal, using the ADOS2 (Autism Diagnostic Schedule, second edition). This standardised observational tool assesses communication, social interaction, and play behaviours in individuals suspected of being autistic. This method is considered to be the most robust way of confirming a diagnosis, particularly if the certification of diagnosis is required by any third party. It is a longer assessment, takes longer to mark and so costs more.
Pragmatic, using a lighter touch observation assessment tool. This method is ideal for those in whom the focus is self-discovery and self awareness and who would like to preserve some resources for subsequent therapy (or going on holiday).