The Assessment Process

Before the assessment- free telephone consultation

A free telephone consultation will be held to answer any questions, gain some initial background information and determine whether an assessment is appropriate. Should you wish to proceed with the assessment, we will ask you to read and sign our terms and conditions.

Step 1: Developmental History Session

A developmental history (using the Autism Diagnostic Interview Revised, ADIr) is completed, via online meeting. This is to gather more extensive information about a child, young person or adult’s background, their early development, their current language skills, their communication style, their social and play development and their interests, behaviours, thought process and any sensory differences. This appointment can last up to 3 hours. This is completed with parents/ carers without the child or young person. Adults wishing to be assessed where there is no information, please contact us for further information.

Step 2: Observation Assessment

An observation assessment using the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule 2 (ADOS-2) is completed. The ADOS-2 is a semi-structured assessment of communication, social interaction and imaginative use of materials designed to elicit behaviours that are directly relevant to a diagnosis of autism. Where a client is able to report on their own lived experience, questions to gather self reports will also be asked. This is conducted in a clinic in Bristol.

Step 3: Further assessment where this is required

Further assessment tools may be used but this will depend on the age of the person being assessed, their needs and their presentation. A school observation may also be required. Information from key school staff will be requested where this is applicable.

Step 4: Diagnostic Meeting

Following these assessments, a Multi-Disciplinary Team meeting is held where information gathered is reviewed alongside the diagnostic criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder (Diagnostic Statistical Manual V, DSM V) to determine whether the person’s needs meet the criteria for a diagnosis.

Please note that a diagnosis of autism is not guaranteed. The Multi-Disciplinary Team will include at least 2 professionals from 2 different professional backgrounds, such as a Speech and Language Therapist, Clinical Psychologist and/or Occupational Therapist. The team also have access to a psychiatrist should this be needed.

Step 5: Feedback Meeting

Once the outcome of the assessment has been decided this will be shared with you and a feedback meeting arranged to review the findings of the assessment and to address any unanswered questions. A report is shared containing a description of the information received, the diagnostic outcome and recommendations for support.