Getting a private autism assessment can be an empowering and positive start to your or your family’s journey living with autism. Quicker diagnosis and early intervention will lead to a better understanding of you or your child’s strengths and challenges.

Whilst awareness of, and treatment for Autism has greatly improved, we understand that it is still a worrying and confusing time if it’s happening to you or your loved one. 

Characteristics of autism vary from one person to another, so taking the first step is the hardest, especially if you have doubts about wasting time or money. 

That’s where the experts at Unthank Speech & Communication can help. We have over 20 years experience specialising in both adult and child autism diagnosis and will provide as much support for you and your family as we can. 

We understand you might have concerns about the cost of a private autism assessment, however the benefits of a timely and thorough diagnosis and the subsequent access to appropriate resources and support can be hugely beneficial. 

Our FREE initial questionnaire helps us to decide whether there’s enough evidence to warrant doing a full assessment and hopefully this will alleviate some of your initial fears. 

10 Benefits of a Private Autism Assessment 

1. Reduced Waiting Times: The NHS has long waiting lists for autism assessments, which can delay diagnosis and support. Our private assessments allow for quicker diagnosis and subsequent access to support and resources.
2. Comprehensive Evaluation: Our NICE compliant assessment is undertaken by two healthcare professionals and is tailored to the individual’s unique needs. 
3. Detailed Report: Following assessment you will receive a detailed report which not only provides information regarding the diagnostic criteria and whether or not these have been met, but also includes specific recommendations for further support, including support within educational settings or workplaces.
4. Co-occurring Conditions: Many autistic individuals have co-occurring conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, or depression. Our assessment can help to identify (not diagnose) if further assessment and support for these conditions is appropriate, leading to more targeted and effective treatment plans. Furthermore, interventions received for co-occurring conditions can be tailored for autistic individuals. 
5. Quicker Access to Support: Although support should be based on needs rather than diagnosis, the reality is that a formal diagnosis can provide faster access to support services and additional resources. These may include educational accommodations, therapy services, support groups, and community resources tailored to autistic people.
6. Self-Acceptance and Advocacy: Knowing that you or your child is autistic can help develop self-acceptance and understanding. It allows individuals to embrace their neurodiversity and advocate for their needs.
7. Flexibility and Convenience: Arranging a private assessment is more flexible and we’ll do our best to book an appointment that works for everyone. 
8. Privacy and Confidentiality: We understand that some people prefer the privacy and confidentiality of a private assessment, especially if they have concerns about stigma or the sharing of their medical information within public systems.
9. Second Opinion: If there’s uncertainty or dissatisfaction with a previous assessment, we can offer a second opinion for clarity and reassurance.
10. Planning for the Future: Knowing that you or your child is autistic allows for better planning for the future, including educational and vocational goals, financial planning, and long-term care arrangements if necessary.

In Summary

Seeking an autism assessment is about gaining understanding, accessing support, fostering acceptance, and planning for a fulfilling future. It’s a proactive step towards empowerment and well-being for autistic individuals and their families.

Take the first step today – get in touch and fill in our questionnaire. If a full private autism assessment is appropriate, we will walk you through our terms and conditions and arrange an appointment convenient to you.

Our NICE compliant assessment is undertaken by two healthcare professionals and with your permission we will also gather information from a third party, for example work or school, about your or your child’s presentation in that setting. Please note, if a child is under 6 they need to have been seen previously by a paediatrician and we can talk you through this process.  

For more information on the assessment process, read our article on ‘What Happens in an Autism Assessment.’ and if you have any further questions, visit our FAQ page. 

*Please be aware that our initial questionnaire or what some call ‘screening tests’ – should not be seen as an alternative to proper assessment and diagnosis.