Adult Autism Assessments Stirling, Conducted Online

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Private Autism (ASD) Assessments in Stirling 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, including clinical interventions for autistic adults with NHS Scotland.

Throughout my career, I’ve dedicated my efforts to supporting autistic adults by offering both mental health 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 Stirling 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 in Stirling over online video call, contact Anne Marie by clicking below.

Anne Marie Gallagher

BSc, RCSLT, ASILTIP

How it works

Scotland is home to approximately 44,000 autistic individuals.

Stirling is home to approximately 0.5% of autistic individuals, with a 1.4 % prevalence rate. Stirling has adopted the Scottish Strategy for Autism and has partnered with autism initiatives like the late diagnosis programmes (LDG) and the post-diagnostic support pilot project. With this, the city has demonstrated its commitment to the welfare of autistic individuals.

I hope to continue this forward progress by lending my 20+ years of clinical experience and professional services by offering autism assessment in Stirling. Autism assessment processes often require a personalised and collaborative approach to work effectively. I understand the importance and need for such an approach, working actively with the individual on a one-to-one basis.

This helps to uncover evidence spanning their entire lifespan, contributing to the efficacy of the diagnostic process. I use a variety of assessment techniques, such as questionnaires, self-reports, and interviews with the individual being assessed.

The early childhood development phase holds important clues that are helpful in autism assessments. I believe in gathering this information from individuals who’ve known the person during that period to yield valuable insight. This allows for a comprehensive 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.

I also recognise the challenges and struggles faced by women with undiagnosed autism, who may camouflage the true extent of their difficulties. Informed by the person’s perspective, diagnostic assessments and decision-making are not solely based on demonstrable behaviours.

I make an autism diagnosis and assessment based on the individual’s thoughts, experiences and unique challenges, which allows for a more tailored therapeutic solution. My expertise also extends to ASD diagnosis and assessment, ensuring thorough and personalised evaluations for those struggling with autism spectrum in Stirling.

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 Stirling

As an experienced speech and language therapist, I’m committed to offering neurodiverse individuals the clarity, tools and support they need to live an empowered life. Through Connect to Autism, I offer professional autism assessment services in Stirling for adults aged 16 and above. I also specialise in autism assessment services for women. My autism assessment services are compassionate, efficient, and highly personalised.

With over 25 years of clinical expertise, I offer professional autism assessments that are thorough, respectful, and grounded in practical and evidence-based methodologies.

Long wait times are an ongoing issue for NHS autism assessments in Stirling and the wider region. With Connect to Autism, you can access timely and accessible autism assessment services.

With my online private autism assessments, individuals in Stirling can easily access professional autism services from the comfort of their homes. This is a convenient and inclusive arrangement that allows you to connect with me while receiving the same high-quality service as an in-person appointment.

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

If you’re looking for a trusted provider specialising in adult autism assessments in Stirling, I’m here to help. Take the first step towards empowerment by contacting Connect To Autism.

Explore my website to learn more about my autism diagnostic services in Stirling and book your assessment today.

The Benefits of Having an Adult Autism Diagnosis in Stirling

Autism assessments provide detailed reports filled with valuable insight that can help you live a more meaningful, fulfilling and empowered life. It gives you a clearer picture of your personality, sensory and communication preferences and suggests coping mechanisms you can use. As a result, you can begin your transformative journey leading to greater self-acceptance and self-awareness.

A formal autism assessment in Stirling can also help validate your experiences and prove cathartic, especially if you’ve struggled to understand your past difficulties. These new insights can help you make more informed decisions in key areas of your life, such as your relationships, social life and more.

Most importantly, an adult autism assessment in Stirling can help you access critical and local support services and accommodations. This can enhance your everyday life for an improved living experience.

Some of the other benefits of autism diagnosis in Stirling include:

Access to Support Services and Resources

A professional autism assessment in Stirling can open the door to a range of local support services, like counselling, occupational therapy, government-led autism initiatives and more. These support services can play a vital role in improving your quality of life.

Improved Mental Health & Tailored Therapeutic Approach

Individuals with autism often struggle with mental health issues, and obtaining a formal autism diagnosis in Stirling can be a proactive step in addressing these issues. Autism assessments provide valuable insights into an individual’s personality, which can help individuals access more personalised mental health services tailored to their needs.

Legal and Workplace Protections

Individuals with autism and ASD can benefit from an autism assessment in Stirling, as it helps identify their specific needs in the workplace. This can help them access work accommodations like flexible work hours, specialised equipment and other accommodations for sensory preferences under the Equality Act 2010.

Educational Opportunities

Adults seeking further education or vocational training can benefit significantly from a professional autism diagnosis in Stirling. Under Scotland laws, educational institutions in Stirling are equipped to offer specialised support for students with autism, ensuring they have equal opportunities to succeed. This includes vocational training opportunities that can help them in their future careers or field of work.

Enhanced Relationships

Relationships at home and outside are crucial for an individual with autism, as it’s an important part of their support system. For this reason, loved ones and carers need to gain a deeper understanding of an autistic individual’s personality, strengths and difficulties. This insight can help loved ones offer you a greater level of support and empathy, leading to healthier, stronger relationships in the home environment.

FAQs

What distinguishes a private autism assessment from public assessments?

A private autism assessment in Stirling 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 Stirling?

An adult autism diagnosis in Stirling 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 an Autism Spectrum Disorder Assessment for adults in Stirling?

An Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or an autism assessment in Stirling 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 Stirling?

Private autism diagnoses in Stirling are completely confidential. 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 autism assessment in Stirling 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 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 Scotland 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 Stirling

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