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Private Adult Autism Assessments
At PATH North West, private adult autism assessments carried out by myself, an experienced psychologist, following NICE guidelines and using recognised gold-standard tools. Whether you're based in Manchester or anywhere in the UK, I offer both face-to-face and online autism assessment appointments tailored to your needs. If you want to find out more about the autism diagnosis process , please get in touch.
What Is Autism?
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Autism, or Autistic Spectrum Disorder, is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person experiences the world, processes information, and interacts with others. While ASD is the formal diagnostic term, many people prefer simply to use the term “autistic” and do not view autism as a disorder, but as a different way of being.
At PATH North West, I take a neuro-affirmative approach to assessment. I recognise that being autistic comes with both challenges and strengths. My role is not to pathologise, but to understand and validate your experience.
After your diagnosis, we can support you with post-diagnostic sessions if needed, subject to availability.
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Book your online or In-Person Appointments in Manchester below.
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Key Signs of Autism in Adults
Autism can look different from person to person, and many adults may not realise they’re autistic until later in life, especially if they've learned to mask their difficulties. You might have always felt “different” or found certain situations more challenging than others seem to. If you often feel socially exhausted, misunderstood, or overwhelmed by sensory input, it could be a sign of autism.
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Feeling socially awkward or unsure how to “read” people
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Finding small talk and social situations draining or confusing
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Sticking to routines and feeling anxious when they’re disrupted
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Strong attention to detail and deep focus on specific interests
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Sensory sensitivities (e.g. to lights, sounds, fabrics, or smells)
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Struggling with changes, uncertainty, or transitions
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Needing time alone to recover after social interaction
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Difficulty understanding unspoken social rules or sarcasm
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Having intense interests or hobbies, sometimes at the expense of other areas of life
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A history of anxiety, burnout, or misdiagnosis (e.g. as depression or borderline personality disorder)
If any of these feel familiar, it might be worth exploring a formal autism assessment.
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Why Seek an Autism Diagnosis?
Many adults go through life feeling “different” or misunderstood, often internalising negative messages received from others. If you’ve ever felt out of step with the world, struggled with social interaction, communication, or sensory sensitivities, it’s possible you may be autistic.
Receiving a diagnosis can be a turning point. It provides clarity, self-understanding, and access to support and workplace accommodations. It can also help repair self-esteem by framing past difficulties in a new, more compassionate light.
What’s Involved in a Private Autism Assessment?
My private autism assessments are detailed, respectful, and follow national clinical standards. Every assessment is tailored to the individual and includes the following stages:
1. Initial Appointment
We begin with a session to gather background information and discuss your current concerns. We’ll talk through your developmental history, everyday experiences, and any co-occurring conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, or trauma.
2. Assessment Appointments
You will usually attend two or three assessment sessions. These may involve:
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Structured interviews
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Observational assessments
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Questionnaires and tasks
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Third-party input (e.g., from a parent or sibling, where possible)
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I use recognised tools such as the DISCO, ADOS, and ACIA, which are considered the gold standard in autism diagnosis across the UK.
3. Feedback and Diagnosis
The final appointment is a feedback session where I discuss the outcome of the assessment with you. You’ll receive:​
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A detailed written report
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A formulation explaining how autism presents in your case
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Practical recommendations for moving forward
Whether face-to-face in Manchester or via online autism assessment, the process is just as thorough and supportive.
Online Autism Assessments
Available Nationwide
If you are unable to attend in person or prefer the flexibility of remote appointments, I offer online autism assessments across the UK. The process and clinical quality are exactly the same as in-person appointments.
I use secure video platforms and ensure your comfort and privacy at all stages. Whether you’re based in the UK or even another country you can access high-quality, neuro-affirming autism assessments from the comfort of your own home.
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Autism Screening – A First Step for Some
If you're unsure whether a full autism assessment is necessary, I also offer a screening appointment as an alternative.
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What Does Screening Involve?
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A 90-minute session
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Questions covering both autism and ADHD traits
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A brief written report outlining the likelihood of neurodiversity
While not a formal diagnosis, this can help guide your next steps. Many people use screening to decide whether to pursue a full assessment. It also helps clarify whether ADHD traits may be more prominent than autistic traits – something we regularly see in clinical practice. The cost of the screening ia deducted from the full assessment cost if you do decide to go ahead.
Getting Started
To begin, simply email me at pathnorthwest@protonmail.com with any questions or to ask for further information.If you wish to have a telephone or video call discussion, this can also be arranged.
Why Choose PATH North West?
HCPC-Registered Clinical Psychologist:
You’ll be assessed by a qualified professional with 18+ years of specialist experience in working with neurodiverse adults, including in the NHS.
Private ADHD and Autism Assessments:
No long NHS wait times. We offer timely, confidential and comprehensive assessments tailored to adults.
In-Person or Online:
Insurance registered Health Provider:
Face-to-face sessions available in Chorlton, Manchester (Mondays), or online appointments available (Fridays).
​Psychology services that are registered with Aviva, AXA Health, BUPA, and Vitality Health.
Specialist in ADHD & Autism:
Extensive experience working with adults with Autism and ADHD, including late-diagnosis individuals, females and LGBTQ+ clients.
Evidence-Based Therapy Available:
I am experienced in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which may be available post-diagnosis
How long does a full autism assessment take?
Most assessments include two to three sessions, followed by a feedback appointment. The whole.
Do I need a referral from my GP?
No. You can self-refer for a private adult autism assessment without needing a GP referral.​
Can I be assessed if I’m already diagnosed with ADHD?
Yes. Many people are autistic and have ADHD. I am experienced in identifying and differentiating between both.
Is it possible to involve a parent or family member in the assessment?
Yes. If someone can provide information about your early development, it’s helpful – but not essential.
Can I choose an online assessment even if I live near Manchester?
Yes. I offer online autism assessments to anyone in the UK, regardless of location.​
What if I don’t meet the criteria for an autism diagnosis?
I will still provide a clear formulation, offer support, and signpost any next steps. You will receive a report either way.