Autism Diagnostic Assessment
We are very pleased to offer Autism Diagnostic Assessments and Post Diagnostic Support for Adults - recognised by the National Autistic Society - https://www.autism.org.uk/directory/w/wimborne-psychology
Mandy Dodds and Charlotte Boulton are both highly skilled and experienced Clinical Psychologists who will work side by side in offering this comprehensive and much needed service. (please find profiles for Charlotte and Mandy in the Clinicians Section).
The process will begin with a free initial consultation with Claire Williams to gather information from you and answer any questions you may have. This will last approximately 15-20 minutes. Claire will take notes from your discussion and your confidential information will then be looked at by our Clinical Lead Dr Alisha Azzopardi and either Charlotte Boulton or Mandy Dodds will be assigned to offer you your first appointment.
We offer a 2 step autism assessment process for adults. This consists of initial screening followed by the option of a full diagnostic assessment if indicated.
Mandy Dodds and Charlotte Boulton are both highly skilled and experienced Clinical Psychologists who will work side by side in offering this comprehensive and much needed service. (please find profiles for Charlotte and Mandy in the Clinicians Section).
The process will begin with a free initial consultation with Claire Williams to gather information from you and answer any questions you may have. This will last approximately 15-20 minutes. Claire will take notes from your discussion and your confidential information will then be looked at by our Clinical Lead Dr Alisha Azzopardi and either Charlotte Boulton or Mandy Dodds will be assigned to offer you your first appointment.
We offer a 2 step autism assessment process for adults. This consists of initial screening followed by the option of a full diagnostic assessment if indicated.
Autism Diagnostic Process
1. Initial screening
2. Diagnostic Assessment
3. Post-diagnostic Support
Initial screening: During the initial screening appointment, you will be offered a telephone or video appointment of up to 30 minutes to discuss your reasons for pursuing an autism assessment. The results of the screening questionnaires, which you completed when you first contacted the service, will be shared and we will discuss whether there is sufficient evidence at this point to warrant progressing to a full diagnostic assessment.
It's important to know that even when there are good indicators at screening, assessment cannot guarantee a positive diagnosis. There is no pressure to decide your next steps at this stage. The screening appointment helps you to make an informed decision about whether diagnostic assessment is right for you at this time.
Diagnostic assessment: This usually consists of two to three semi-structured clinical interviews.
Appointments can be in person or via video call, depending on your preference. Our assessments are compliant with the Autism NICE guidelines (2012).
During these appointments, you will be asked questions about your family background, your mental health, communication style, social interaction and relationships, repetitive behaviours, interests and sensory experiences. As autism is a lifelong diagnosis it is also important to assess for evidence in childhood. Therefore, we will ask for access to school reports and previous assessments (if available) and to make a telephone appointment with someone who knew you well as a child. Usually, but not exclusively, this will be a family member.
Once all the information is gathered, a comprehensive report will be written with a conclusion as to whether or not you meet the threshold for a diagnosis of an autism spectrum condition. Recommendations for future help and support will also be made. This will be discussed in detail during a final feedback session.
Post Diagnostic Support: Following diagnosis, we can provide ongoing sessions to help you understand your ASC and how it impacts your life and relationships. We recognise that adjusting to the diagnosis will involve unique challenges which we can help you process, explore and ultimately manage.
It's important to know that there is an NHS autism diagnostic service in Dorset. Referrals can be made via your GP. There are specific eligibility criteria for referral and waiting times.
Autism Diagnostic Fees
Initial screening fees are £120
This includes initial screening forms which you would be asked to complete and return via email. This is followed by a 30 minute telephone or Zoom call to discuss the results of the screening.
Full Diagnostic Assessment Fee is £1,440 Inclusive
If you wish to go ahead with a full Adult Autism Assessment, you will be booked in at the clinic, in person. This will include two or three appointments, face to face or zoom . A telephone appointment with someone who knew you in childhood (up to 1 hr). Results of the assessment and recommendations tailored to your unique needs will be discussed with you at the final feedback appointment. You will receive a full diagnostic report.
Post Diagnostic Support Fees are £120.00 per session
Following diagnosis, we can provide ongoing sessions to help you adjust to the diagnosis, understand your autism and help you move towards a rich and purposeful life. Sessions are charged at the standard Clinical Psychology rate of £120 per session.
This includes initial screening forms which you would be asked to complete and return via email. This is followed by a 30 minute telephone or Zoom call to discuss the results of the screening.
Full Diagnostic Assessment Fee is £1,440 Inclusive
If you wish to go ahead with a full Adult Autism Assessment, you will be booked in at the clinic, in person. This will include two or three appointments, face to face or zoom . A telephone appointment with someone who knew you in childhood (up to 1 hr). Results of the assessment and recommendations tailored to your unique needs will be discussed with you at the final feedback appointment. You will receive a full diagnostic report.
Post Diagnostic Support Fees are £120.00 per session
Following diagnosis, we can provide ongoing sessions to help you adjust to the diagnosis, understand your autism and help you move towards a rich and purposeful life. Sessions are charged at the standard Clinical Psychology rate of £120 per session.