Adult Autism Assessment Bristol, Conducted Online

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Private Autism (ASD) Assessments in Bristol for Adults (16+), Over Online Video Call

I’m Anne Marie Gallagher, a Speech and Language Therapist with a BSc, and a member of both RCSLT and ASILTIP. Based in the UK, I’ve spent over 25 years conducting professional adult autism assessments in Bristol, including clinical interventions for autistic adults with the NHS.

Throughout my career, I’ve dedicated my efforts to supporting autistic adults by offering both diagnoses and peer-to-peer support.

In the past two decades, my clinical emphasis has centred on identifying adults with autism, with a special emphasis on women with autism. I provide private autism assessments in Bristol and throughout the UK.

Why Choose Connect To Autism?

Find out how you can start your diagnostic journey today!

For all enquiries and to arrange an autism Assessment over an online video call, contact Anne Marie by clicking below

Anne Marie Gallagher

BSc, RCSLT, ASILTIP

How it works

Bristol is home to approximately 4000 adult autistic individuals

Bristol is home to approximately 4000 adult autistic individuals, with a 2.5% prevalence rate. These figures present a conservative estimate. The Bristol City Council, the National Autism Strategy (for England), Adult Social Care and the Bristol Autism Spectrum Service (BASS) are leading the way in providing autism-related services.

Bristol’s commitment to the inclusion of autistic individuals is commendable and a step in the right direction. I hope to contribute to this progress by lending my 20+ years of clinical expertise and professional services by offering autism diagnosis in Bristol.

My autism diagnosis and assessment process is rooted in evidence-based techniques that are both sensitive and nuanced. This is backed by years of clinical experience and helps me uncover evidence spanning individuals entire lifespan, contributing to the efficacy of the diagnostic process.

The early childhood development phase holds important behavioural clues that help me make a comprehensive autism assessment. I believe in gathering this information by using questionnaires, self-reports, and detailed interviews. I also encourage family members and carers to participate in assessments, which can provide valuable insight into the individual being assessed.

This allows for a thorough understanding of the individual’s early experiences and results in a more holistic assessment. However, it’s important to note that these assessments can still be conducted for individuals without access to an informant from their early childhood.

My clinical expertise also extends to women with autism. Autistic females often exhibit traits differently from their male counterparts. This is because women often use masking and camouflaging techniques to hide their struggles and fit in with society’s expectations.

They face considerable challenges in receiving a timely diagnosis due to gender gaps in diagnostic criteria, often postponing their access to support services. This strains their mental and emotional well-being. I seek to address this proactively by lending a more inclusive approach to autism assessments, using gender-sensitive diagnostic tools.

Autism Assessment Process

Step 1

Click here to send Anne Marie a message via the contact form

Step 2

This can either be a self-report or filled out by someone who was well-acquainted with you during your childhood.

Step 3

When evaluated, this questionnaire is highly dependable in revealing childhood information that will support the diagnostic process.

I would exercise caution in undertaking a private diagnostic assessment if it seems unlikely that the individual would meet the criteria for diagnosis.

In reviewing the questionnaire, consideration is given to the fact that behaviors indicative of ASD may not manifest noticeably until later in life. The early onset of masking and camouflaging difficulties, coupled with the potential influence of home circumstances on parental reporting, is taken into consideration.

Step 4

A telephone consultation is scheduled to provide feedback on the evaluation of the early developmental questionnaire and to determine whether there is adequate information to support the diagnostic process.

The appointment letter is sent, along with the invoice, and payment is required 7 days before the scheduled assessment date.

Step 5

The full diagnostic assessment is arranged to be conducted via Zoom.

The full assessment is completed within 4-6 hours. However the Zoom call part of the assessment is typically 2 – 2.5 hours.

How Much Does It Cost?

Diagnostic Autism Assessment

INITIAL TELEPHONE CONSULTATION FREE

This is where you get the opportunity to discuss aspects of the diagnostic journey. You can ask about the impact of masking, trauma or sensory hypersensitivities on the assessment and discuss the potential benefits of an adult assessment. You may also want to discuss the nature of the assessment report and confirm that the reports are accepted widely to ensure it will suit your purposes. Lastly you will have the opportunity to engage with Anne Marie Gallagher, the clinician who will conduct your assessment to ensure you feel at ease with her style of engaging.
DIAGNOSTIC ASSESSMENT: PART ONE: £300

This is the initial clinical assessment and evaluation of the early developmental questionnaire (EDQ), the outcome of which will be to say that its highly likely or unlikely that the person will get a positive ASD diagnosis.
DIAGNOSTIC ASSESSMENT: PART TWO: Full assessment & report £1200

This is the full assessment, the outcome of which will be a report that details how you meet the diagnostic criteria for an Autism Spectrum Disorder. Recommendations for education and workplace can also be given if requested. This assessment takes place over zoom.
TOTAL COST £1500

Fees can be paid by bank transfer, UK or international.

Please note:

If none of the initial telephone consultation times are suitable for you via the booking system, please enquire via the contact form for another available option
Part 1 is via telephone however a zoom call can be requested if preferred
ADHD screening is included in the ASD diagnostic assessment.

"Anne Marie provided an incredibly thorough, sensitive and insightful diagnostic assessment that has allowed me to feel incredibly understood. Her report represented me perfectly but comprehensively and I am very grateful for her extensive experience” Click HERE to find out how you can start your diagnostic journey"

Online Autism Assessments for Adults in Bristol

Adults with autism can use masking behaviours to cope and may experience fatigue, anxiety or mental health issues. If you’ve faced something similar and suspect you are on the spectrum, a formal autism assessment can bring you clarity and relief. Connect To Autism’s private assessment can give you a better understanding of your neurodiversity while offering a compassionate approach to autism diagnosis.

Led by Anne Marie Gallagher, an experienced Speech and Language Therapist with over two decades of clinical expertise, her autism assessments are well-renowned for their professional service. These assessments are thorough, respectful, and grounded in practical and evidence-based methods. Anne Marie has worked with autistic adults from diverse backgrounds, which has enriched her clinical experience. This has shaped her approach to autism diagnostics and allows her to deliver accurate assessments that empower individuals.

Long wait times are an ongoing issue for government-backed autism services in Bristol. This has delayed autism assessments for many. Connect To Autism’s private autism assessments are a viable alternative, which makes assessments both timely and accessible. These assessments are carried out online over a video call, which you can do from the comfort of your home.

A formal autism assessment can help adults access workplace and educational accommodations, develop stronger relationships, and find tailored support services in Bristol and beyond. As part of this service, clients also receive a comprehensive diagnostic report with practical strategies and personalised recommendations to live a fulfilling life.

If you’re looking for a trusted provider specialising in adult autism assessments in Bristol, Connect To Autism is here to support you every step of the way. We’re deeply committed to providing neurodiverse individuals with the clarity and tools they need to thrive.

Take the first step towards empowerment by contacting Connect To Autism. Explore the website to learn more about our autism diagnostic services and book your assessment today.

The Benefits of Having an Adult Autism Diagnosis in Bristol

An adult autism diagnosis and assessment is the first step towards gaining greater clarity. This comes with several benefits that provide you with a clearer understanding of your unique traits and personality. As a result, you can begin your transformative journey leading to greater self-acceptance and self-awareness.

A formal ASD diagnosis can help validate your experiences and bring you relief, especially if you’ve struggled to understand your past challenges. This can help you make informed decisions going forward in key areas such as your relationships, employment, social life and more.

Most importantly, an autism assessment can help you access support services and accommodations, which can enhance your everyday life.

Some other benefits of getting an autism diagnosis include:

Access to Support Services and Resources

A formal autism diagnosis can open the door to a wide range of support services, which are helpful in providing you or a loved one with an improved quality of life. These services and resources often include tailored programs for mental health issues like anxiety or depression, assistive tech, vocational training, counselling, speech therapies and more. These can help you access more inclusive work and educational environments to make the most of opportunities and achieve your true potential.

Improved Mental Health & Tailored Therapeutic Approach

Receiving mental health support can be vital for the mental and emotional well-being of an individual with autism. It’s an area of focus in comprehensive autism assessments. An adult autism diagnosis can play a vital role in significantly improving the mental health of autistic adults. This can help individuals access more personalised mental health services tailored to their needs, helping to address mental health issues more effectively.

Legal and Workplace Protections

Under the Equality Act 2010, employers in Bristol are legally required to make reasonable adjustments to support employees with autism. These reasonable adjustments include accessible work environments, flexible working hours, specialised equipment, modified communication styles and other inclusive practices. A formal autism assessment can help identify specific needs that will enable these accommodations.

Educational Opportunities

Adults seeking further education or vocational training can benefit significantly from a professional ASD assessment in Bristol. Educational institutions in Bristol are equipped to offer specialised support for students with autism, ensuring they have equal opportunities to succeed. This might involve personalised lesson plans, access to assistive technologies, or additional time for exams and assignments. These concessions can help young adults pursue their educational and vocational goals successfully.

Enhanced Relationships

Individuals with autism can struggle with their relationships, be it in their personal or professional lives. This is largely due to their communication difficulties and a different way of processing social cues. However, this can be addressed with a formal autism assessment, which involves family and carers. It can help them understand neurodiversity better, allowing them to offer empathy and support. This can help in improving personal and professional relationships to a great extent, forge more meaningful connections and lead to a supportive home environment.

A Few Commonly Asked Questions

What distinguishes a private autism assessment from public assessments?

A private autism assessment offers expedited services, personalised attention, and flexibility in scheduling. Unlike public assessments, private services often provide quicker results and a more tailored approach to adult autism evaluation.

What specific services are included in adult autism diagnosis services in Bristol?

An adult autism diagnosis involves comprehensive assessments, including interviews, observations, and standardised tests. These services are designed to evaluate social communication, behaviour, and other factors to provide a thorough understanding of an individual’s neurodevelopmental profile.

How does the process of autism diagnosis for adults differ from assessments for children?

Autism diagnosis for adults involves specialised assessments that consider the unique challenges and strengths of adults. The evaluation may include self-reporting, interviews, and observations to assess social communication, behaviour patterns, and potential co-occurring conditions.

What is involved in a UK Autism Spectrum Disorder Assessment for adults in Bristol?

An Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Assessment includes a comprehensive evaluation conducted by qualified clinicians. This assessment examines various aspects of an individual’s behaviour, communication, and social interactions to determine the presence of autism spectrum disorder.

How confidential are private autism diagnostic assessments in Bristol?

Private autism diagnostic assessments prioritise confidentiality. Only authorised professionals involved in the assessment process have access to the results, ensuring privacy and adherence to ethical standards.

Can individuals schedule an adult ASD assessment without a referral from a healthcare provider?

Yes, individuals can often schedule an adult ASD assessment without a referral. Private assessment services typically welcome self-referrals, providing a more accessible avenue for adults seeking an autism diagnosis.

Is your diagnosis accepted by the NHS and/or local authority?

The acceptance of a private diagnosis is dependent on many factors, and not just the robustness of the assessment and the experience of the assessor.

I have not had my assessments rejected by any service, including both the NHS and the local authority.

I always suggest that if you are looking for the diagnosis to be accepted by any service, GP, MH services, psychology, etc, that you discuss my credentials with them. This will help you ascertain if they will accept it before you commit to a professional autism assessment with me. For this purpose, I have provided additional information about my experience below.

I was the clinical lead for 20 years with Scotland’s largest Adult Autism Assessment Team. My private ASD assessments in Bristol follow the same format as my NHS assessments.

I am one of the authors of the SIGN guidelines. I’ve sat on the national steering group at the Scottish Government, having led a working group on increasing competencies across health to diagnose autism spectrum disorders.

My assessments are underpinned by the DISCO assessment (Diagnostic Interview for Social and Communication Disorders). I was the Scottish trainer for DISCO up until 4 years ago, when the license ceased after Lorna Wing’s death. I have trained 300+ clinical psychologists, psychiatrists, and paediatricians to recognise and diagnose autism professionally.

What are your current waiting times?

Please get in touch via the contact form to receive the most up-to-date waiting times.

Can you assess children?

No, unfortunately, I only assess individuals aged 16+

Can you diagnose ADHD?

No, I can only diagnose ASD. However, I’m happy to provide an ADHD screening as an additional assessment to a full ASD diagnostic assessment. This can also be done on an individual’s request, and the results will indicate whether or not further diagnostic assessment for ADHD would be warranted.

Is there the possibility of doing a face-to-face assessment instead of a telephone call/zoom?

Unfortunately, I do not offer face-to-face assessments.

Can my partner/parents/etc join the consultation/assessment?

Yes, if you are comfortable with them being there, then they are welcome to join. It is often helpful for them to attend, as it also allows them to fully understand the full impact of ASD on your life.

Book an Autism (ASD) Assessment in Bristol

Anne Marie can provide diagnostic autism assessments throughout Bristol, carried out over a video call using Zoom, Skype, Teams, etc.