Step 1: Initial consultation

• First we will ask you to complete some questionnaires.

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• During the initial consultation, a clinician will ask you a range of questions about what has led to you choosing to undertake an assessment and about your experiences. This is also a chance for us to explain the different parts of the assessment and make sure it is the right choice for you. You will also have an opportunity to ask questions.

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• There may be occasions where this initial screening appointment does not indicate that a full assessment is indicated or that it may be better to wait to complete the assessment at a more appropriate time in the future. If this is the case then the clinician will discuss this with you.

Step 2: Autism Assessment

• The ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule) is completed in person with yourself and two clinicians. This appointment lasts around one hour. The two therapists then co-score the ADOS-2.

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• The ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview) is a developmental assessment that is completed by a clinician with a person who knew you well during your early childhood, typically a parent or guardian. This assessment can take place via phone or video call and lasts approximately two hours. If you do not have someone able to complete this part of your assessment please let us know in advance so we are able to discuss this with you and plan accordingly.

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• Sometimes there is a need for clarifying questions following these assessment tools, which can be completed over email or phone. Some additional questionnaires may also be used.

Step 3: Feedback

• Feedback will be provided during a one-hour video session. This is when it will be discussed with you whether the assessment indicated a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder. You may find it helpful for a friend, family member or partner to join you for this appointment.​​

Step 4: Report

• Following the feedback session, a first copy of the report will be sent to you. It is our aim to provide the first copy of the report to you within six weeks of your first assessment appointment. In the rare occasions that this isn’t possible the clinicians will discuss this with you in advance.

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• If you are happy with the report then that will be your final copy. If you would like some amendments to be made to the report, please respond in writing to the practice email address with your requests within two weeks of the report being sent. Clinicians are able to make amendments once only and will be able to provide a second copy of the report to you within a two-week period from your request.We usually send a copy of your report to your GP. Please let us know in advance if you would like to discuss this further.

Step 5: Follow up

Following the assessment process, if you would like to discuss the results of the assessment further then the clinicians are able to provide one to two further appointments that will be charged at a sessional rate. Should you feel you would like to pursue any follow-up sessions or therapeutic work please discuss this with the practice.