Frequently Asked Questions

Is a private autism diagnosis recognised?

From us, absolutely, yes!

Our assessments meet all the NICE guidelines and so are accepted by GP's and NHS services. We use the same tools as our NHS colleagues and a diagnosis is made against the same criteria. If we make a diagnosis, this will be accepted by your GP, NHS services, education settings and at workplaces. If you have any issues with acceptance, we are more than happy to talk to your healthcare provider, education setting or your workplace to support your valid diagnosis, which must be recognised.

Why should I choose the Autism Centre for my assessment?

Our high quality assessments are only delivered by highly qualified and experienced clinicians that have a wealth of experience providing autism and neurodevelopmental diagnostic assessments. The lead clinicians have many years of experience working in the NHS and private practice, providing autism and ADHD assessment and post-diagnostic support for clients. We have become aware that some other providers use less experienced practitioners who are paid accordingly, which in turn can allow them to charge less; but often provide lower quality assessment, and do not always meet NICE guidelines, which can cause issues with NHS providers accepting the outcome.

Why is the autism centre cheaper than other providers?

As experienced clinicians with lived experience, we know and understand how difficult life can be for individuals, their families and the professionals involved when there are differences noted but an assessment is not forthcoming.

We are acutely aware of the state of NHS diagnostic services for autism and ADHD in many areas of the UK, with lengthy waiting lists, and the impact this can have on individuals and the people around them. Whilst many private providers charge more for their assessments, we want to adhere to our values and morals of providing the most compassionate care we can at a fair price.

As a nation we are currently in a cost-of-living crisis with people having less 'spare money'. Therefore, we want our diagnostic assessments to be as affordable as possible whilst maintaining high-standards and NICE compliant diagnostic assessments.