It is never too late to understand yourself.
Specialist, NICE compliant autism assessments for adults. Understand the why behind your lived experiences and access the support that you need.
Why seek a diagnosis now?
Many adults describe feeling different from those around them, often sensing that they experience and process the world in ways that do not align with other’s expectations. They may also have worked hard to mask their natural traits in order to adapt, both socially and professionally. At AYC we understand that an adult assessment can be a meaningful and affirming experience. If undertaken well, the assessment itself can act as an intervention, helping individuals develop a clearer understanding of their unique neuro developmental profile, strengths and support needs.
Clinical Rigour
A respectful, collaborative process.
We offer comprehensive, evidence based assessments. Our assessment pathway is designed and implemented in accordance with NHS gold standard NICE guidelines, ensuring that each assessment is thorough, clinically robust and supported by a detailed person centred report.
Developmental History
You will complete a detailed questionnaire based on the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R). This questionnaire will ask questions about your childhood as well as your current strengths and challenges. This is reviewed by a member of our MDT who may get in touch if we need any additional details or clarification.
Note: While it is helpful to have a parent or older relative contribute as an informant, we understand this isn’t always possible. Alternatively, we are happy to accept information from a partner, friend, or your own self-report.
Sensory Processing Measure
Unlike many standard autism assessments, we include a sensory processing measure. This helps us identify if you experience any sensory processing differences which impact your day-to-day lived experience.
The face to face Assessment (ADOS-2)
You will attend our Warrington centre for the ADOS-2 (Module 4). This is a structured conversation and set of interactive tasks designed to let us see how you communicate and interact naturally, in real-time.
Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) Review
Your information is reviewed by our specialist multidisciplinary team (including Clinical Psychologists, Occupational Therapists, Speech and Language Therapists, and Assistant Psychologists). This ensures we consider not only observable behaviours but also underlying cognitive, language, sensory, and emotional factors, reducing the risk of misdiagnosis and guiding targeted recommendations.
Feedback & Report
You receive feedback, followed by a comprehensive diagnostic report with personalised recommendations. The report can be used to gain support and adjustments in University (disabled students allowance (DSA) and the information contained within the report can be used to strengthen applications such as education, health and care plans (EHCP’s) and disability living allowance (DLA). Your diagnosis, should you wish to do so, can be applied to your NHS records.
What changes after diagnosis?
Beyond personal validation, a formal diagnosis unlocks legal protections and tangible support.
Workplace Protections
The Equality Act
Employers have a legal duty to make “Reasonable Adjustments” for neurodivergent staff if needed. Your diagnostic report provides the evidence that you will need to request changes like quiet workspaces, noise-cancelling headphones, different ways of working and/or different schedules.
University Support
DSA Funding
If you are a student, a diagnosis allows you to request additional support and apply for the Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA). This can fund specialist mentoring, software, and study support.
Mental Health
Wellbeing
Understanding your own sensory and social communication needs will allow you to ensure that all aspects of your daily life facilitate your well-being and prevent you from experiencing over whelm or autistic burnout.
Why Choose AYC?
Expert care, close to home.
NICE Compliant
We follow NICE Guidelines and use best assessment practices. This means that your diagnosis will be recognised by the NHS, your GPs and all other appropriate Mental Health Services.
The Female/Masking Profile
We specialise in identifying autism in women and individuals who mask, presentations often overlooked in standard assessments. Our MDT uses multiple sources of information to ensure a comprehensive understanding beyond surface behaviours.
Sensory Informed
Our Warrington clinic is designed to be calm and low arousal, removing the stress of a clinical environment.
Common Questions
Yes. While the diagnostic criteria require evidence of traits in childhood, we can use other informants (partners, siblings) or clinical judgment based on your memory and current presentation.
Generally, no. Being autistic does not stop you from driving (unless you have specific medical/attention issues). In fact, it may grant you legal protections against discrimination.
Autism is not treated with medication. However, if you have co-occurring anxiety or depression, our Clinical Psychologists can recommend therapeutic approaches tailored to neurodivergent minds.
