adult autism assessment

At AUDHD Mind, we understand that the journey to self-discovery can be life-changing. An adult autism assessment isn’t simply about receiving a diagnosis—it’s about deepening your understanding of yourself, embracing your neurodivergence, and finding strategies to navigate life in a way that feels authentic and fulfilling.

02

Discover new ways to manage challenges and build on your strengths.

A Respectful and Holistic Process

At AUDHD Mind, we honor the diversity and individuality of every person we meet. Our assessments are not just about ticking boxes—they’re about creating a safe, inclusive space to explore your unique neurodivergence and helping you thrive in ways that work for you.

Proudly Supporting Adults Across Ireland and the United Kingdom

We are dedicated to making autism assessments accessible, offering services to adults across Ireland and the United Kingdom. Whether through face-to-face consultations in Cork or virtual assessments from anywhere, we are here to meet you where you are.

Celebrate Your Neurodivergence

At AUDHD Mind, we don’t just see autism as a diagnosis—we see it as a dynamic and valuable way of being. Our goal is to empower you to live in alignment with your strengths, confidently embracing the unique lens through which you view the world.

Take the First Step Toward Understanding

Ready to embark on a journey of self-awareness and empowerment? Contact AUDHD Mind today to schedule your adult autism assessment. Let us walk this path with you, uncovering your strengths, exploring new strategies, and helping you navigate life in the way that works best for you.

What does an assessment for Autism or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) involve?

An autism assessment is a comprehensive process designed to understand an individual’s neurodevelopmental profile and determine if they meet the criteria for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Following best international guidelines, the assessment typically involves two key components:

1. Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2):
This is a standardized, semi-structured assessment that evaluates communication, social interaction, and play or imaginative use of materials. ADOS-2 consists of four modules, each tailored to different age groups and abilities. The module used is chosen based on the individual’s language skills and developmental level. ADOS-2 helps provide insight into the person’s social behaviors and potential traits of autism through structured and unstructured tasks.

2. Autism Diagnostic Interview – Revised (ADI-R):
This is a detailed, structured interview conducted with a caregiver, parent, or informant who knows the individual well. It takes approximately three hours and focuses on the individual’s early developmental history, particularly in the ages between four and five. The ADI-R helps in gathering essential information about the individual’s social and communication skills, behaviors, and developmental milestones from an early age.

In addition to these core tools, the assessment process may include the use of various questionnaires to gain further insight, including:

– Camouflaging Autistic Traits Questionnaire (CAT-Q): Helps assess how individuals may hide or mask autistic traits in social situations.
– Ritvo Autism and Asperger Diagnostic Scale (RAADS-R): A diagnostic tool to evaluate the presence of ASD in adults who may have developed strategies to compensate for their symptoms.
– Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ): A self-report measure used to assess the extent of autistic traits in an individual.

Throughout the process, we consider early developmental history and patterns of behavior. A psychiatrist, such as myself, uses clinical judgment alongside these diagnostic tools to make a final decision on the outcome of the assessment, ensuring a thorough and individualized approach.

How do I get referred for an autism assessment?

I understand that for many neurodivergent individuals, discussing your neurodivergence
can be difficult. It can feel overwhelming to approach a GP or ask for a referral, and I want to
acknowledge that this process can be especially challenging when you’re unsure about the
next steps.
At audhdmind.com, we are here to help. You can reach out to us directly through our
inquiry page to start a conversation in a way that feels comfortable for you. We can arrange
an informal conversation where we discuss your concerns and what an assessment might
involve, without the pressure of navigating formal referral processes right away.
While a GP referral is always welcome and can be helpful, it is not a requirement to access
care and support. If you do obtain a GP referral, it can be forwarded directly to me through
the consultant psychiatrist health mail, or sent to our audhdmind.com or audhdmind.ie
email address.
I want to assure you that not having a GP referral will never be a barrier to accessing the
care and support you deserve. Especially as a neurodivergent individual, it’s essential that
you feel heard and supported from the very beginning. We aim to make the process as easy
and trauma-informed as possible, allowing you to take the steps that feel right for you at
your own pace.

What happens after I receive a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

Receiving an official diagnosis of autism, even if you’ve always known in your heart that you’re neurodivergent, can bring a mix of emotions. While the diagnosis may bring clarity, it can also feel overwhelming. Being autistic doesn’t mean there is something wrong with you—it simply means your brain works differently. It’s common to start questioning your past decisions, comparing yourself to others, or wondering what this means for your future.

That’s where we come in. I, along with other mental health professionals I collaborate with, am here to support you through this journey. We are committed to helping you understand what your diagnosis means and guide you toward the services and supports available to you.

In Ireland, several resources are available to support autistic individuals. For instance, Aspect Rehab Care, funded by the Health Service Executive, provides support to autistic individuals, including those who were previously diagnosed under the term Asperger’s syndrome (a term no longer used in DSM-5 but still familiar to many). Depending on your needs, we can help you explore other agencies that offer support with employment, education, social engagement, and occupational functioning.

Beyond signposting these external services, we offer a range of therapeutic options that can support your personal growth and well-being, including:

– Psychotherapy and counselling
– Occupational therapy
– Speech and language therapy
– Art therapy
– Trauma-focused therapies
– Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
– Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)

Our approach is holistic and tailored to you as an individual. We work with you to ensure that the support you receive is based on your needs, rather than what a practitioner thinks is best. Together, we can explore ways to help you navigate life as an autistic individual, with the full range of supports you deserve.