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A diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder can provide relief and understanding for you and your loved ones
- Do you struggle to understand others and fit in socially?
- Find the world chaotic and messy when you prefer control and organisation?
- Have others suggested you might be on the spectrum?
An autism assessment can be a helpful next step.
What is autism?
'Autism spectrum disorder', or 'ASD', is an umbrella term for a wide range of neurodiverse profiles, all sharing core traits of:
- difficulties with social communication and interaction
- repetitive behaviours and set ways of thinking
- limited interests and a tendency to overfocus on one subject
- resistance to change
Other autism features can include sensory difficulties (being over or under-sensitive to light, colour, or noise), and challenges with emotional regulation.
Is adult autism different from children’s autism?
No. Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition, meaning it’s always present since childhood. As the word ‘spectrum’ implies, differnt austitic people have different traits and like anyone, each autistic person will have a range of strengths and challenges individual to them. Signs of autism can be overlooked in children as being simply ‘unique’ or ‘special’. However, the demands of adulthood can make traits more apparent.
Autism in adults
Some autisitc individuals may not receive a diagnosis until adulthood. This can be because their traits present differently, or their coping mechanisms were sufficient in childhood but less so with adult demands. An adult autism diagnosis can provide clarity and access to appropriate support.
Autism in women
Females can be diagnosed later in life because they manifest traits differently. Recent research shows autistic girls and women can be better at social situations and masking their difficulties, meaning their struggles are more likely to be overlooked.
How is ASD diagnosed in adults?
An autism assessment is not a medical test, so you don’t have to worry about any health or blood tests. An autism specialist will observe how you interact and socialise, and ask about your past, including your childhood development and struggles with mental health.
They will use one or more of a variety of diagnostic tools, which generally consist of questionnaires looking at the ways you think and behave. At Harley Therapy™ we use DISCO, ADOS, and ADI-R testing.
Your results will then be compared to guidelines put forth by diagnostic manuals. Here in the UK this is not the DSM-5 (popular in America), but the ICD-10, alongside the guidelines from the National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE).
The benefits of autism testing
An assessment with an autism expert can help you or your child:
- finally understand ongoing struggles
- explain to others why you or your child might seem different
- override any previous misdiagnosis such as a learning difficulty or anxiety disorder
- receive the right treatment plan to help cope
- qualify for certain benefits and support
Autism support post-diagnosis and therapy sessions
While there is no cure for ASD, there are various interventions that can improve the quality of life. These typically address one or more areas of functioning, including social, communication, cognitive, and academic skills. Support groups and networks, such as social learning programs and daily skills programs, can also be beneficial.
Counselling is a recommended intervention, particularly when ASD occurs alongside another mental health issue, such as depression or anxiety. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) is often recommended, with necessary adaptations for neurodivergent individuals.
It’s important to also seek support for yourself if you are a family member or partner of someone who is autistic.
Private autism assessment in London - the Harley Therapy™ approach
Our autism specialist, Dr Maria Daves provides assessments and ASD diagnoses for adults. We also offer post-diagnostic support sessions and relationship help. Our team has extensive experience working with autistic people who are autistic, as well as individuals with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD/ADD), longstanding emotional and psychological difficulties, and acute stress. We have a strong interest and expertise in the unique challenges faced by women on the neurodiverse spectrum.
In addition to our autism specialists, we provide a roster of talk therapists who work with autistic clients, helping them cope better and improve relating skills.
Why not get in touch to discuss your concerns and get the support you need? Call us now or book online to make a confidential autism assessment in London, or autism support in our locations that include Harley Street, London Bridge, and the City, or worldwide via online counselling.
How to book your appointment
Call us now on 0345 474 1724 OR book online
All practitioners are qualified and accredited with reputable professional associations.
Reviewed by 
Dr Sheri Jacobson
Other Neuro-developmental Services:
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