What happens at an autism assessment?

So, you’ve finally taken the leap (see what we did there?) and booked your autism assessment. You’re nervous, you’re curious, you’re almost a bit excited, it’s been a long road to this point, and you’re hoping that soon you will have answers to life long questions. But, what actually happens at an autism assessment?

At Leap, we use two assessment tools to assess and diagnose autism. We use the ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, second edition) and the ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview - revised).

The ADOS-2 is a shorter assessment, it uses tasks and conversations to assess for autism, and is usually completed in person at our clinic space in Burscough. When you come for an ADOS-2, you will meet with Jess and one of the Leap clinicians who will guide you through the process. Jess will do most of the talking, where as the other clinician will be taking notes. This assessment usually lasts one hour.

The ADI-R assessment is a little longer and can be completed online via Microsoft Teams, over the telephone, or in person if you wish. It focuses on your developmental history, how you developed socially as a child, your interests and routines, and your sensory interests and challenges.

This may all sound like a lot, and in a way, it is - the assessments are designed to be thorough, we want any diagnoses to be accurate and clinically sound, but you will always be in safe hands. At Leap, we want the assessment process to be a positive and affirming one, and so we are led by our patients in terms of pace and in terms of what we talk about. You will never be under pressure to talk about anything you do not want to, and you can take breaks if you need to. We can also split the ADI-R assessment over two sessions.

We look forward to seeing you soon.