Routes to Diagnosis

NHS Assessment

For most people, the NHS route starts with your GP.

Here’s what typically happens:

• Talk to your GP – Explain why you think you might be autistic. Bring notes or examples of things you find difficult (for instance, sensory sensitivity, social situations, or managing changes). If possible, ask a parent, carer or teacher to share examples from when you were younger, as diagnostic criteria look at lifelong traits.

• Referral – Your GP can refer you to your local NHS autism assessment service. Waiting times vary widely across the UK – from a few months to over a year in some areas.

• Assessment – The assessment is usually carried out by a multidisciplinary team, which might include a psychologist, psychiatrist, or speech and language therapist.

• Outcome – You’ll receive a written report confirming whether you meet the criteria for an autism diagnosis (currently based on DSM-5 or ICD-11 definitions). The report usually includes recommendations for support.

You can find details of your local NHS autism service here: NHS Autism Assessment Services Directory

Private Assessment

If NHS waiting times are very long, you can choose to get assessed privately.

Private assessments must be carried out by qualified clinicians experienced in autism diagnosis – ideally using the same recognised tools as the NHS (such as the ADOS-2 and ADI-R assessments).

While the private assessment route will be much quicker, and possibly offer more flexible appointment formats (in person or online), they can involve significant costs. As such, it is important to research the provider before booking to ensure they follow NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) guidelines for autism diagnosis.

If you’re unsure where to start, you can look for registered providers through:

• National Autistic Society directory

• HCPC register of psychologists

• GMC register for psychiatrists

Private diagnostic costs will vary depending on the provider, but typical ranges in the UK are between £1,000– £2,000 for a full adult diagnostic assessment, and up to £2,500 for a child or adolescent diagnostic assessment.

Help Available at School, College or University

You don’t have to wait for a diagnosis to ask for support, and your school, college or university can put support in place under the Equality Act 2010. You only need to show that you might have a disability.

This could include things like:

• A quieter study space or rest area

• Adjusted deadlines or flexible group work

• Staff awareness of your needs

• Access to mentoring or check-in sessions

If you are in school or college, speak to your SENDCo (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Coordinator) or Learning Support team, while university students should contact the Disability Service. This also gives you a chance to discuss what further support could look like if you later receive an autism diagnosis.

Summary

Getting an autism diagnosis is about understanding yourself – not about being labelled, judged, or limited.

Whether you go through the NHS or a private provider, the goal is to understand what support will help you learn, work, and live well day-to-day.

Remember:

• You can ask for help at any stage – even before diagnosis

• Always choose qualified professionals for private assessments

• Keep copies of your reports and recommendations – they’ll be useful for applying for adjustments or support

• A diagnosis doesn’t change who you are; it simply gives you language and tools to explain how your brain works – and confidence to advocate for yourself.

If you’re ready to take the next step, start by talking to your GP or student support team – they can help you find the path that’s right for you.