What an autism assessment involves
An autism assessment is carried out by autism specialists — usually a multi-disciplinary team that may include a paediatrician, psychologist, speech and language therapist, and occupational therapist.
What typically happens
- Information gathering: detailed history from parents, school reports, and sometimes a home or school observation.
- Developmental history: questions about early childhood, milestones, communication, play and sensory responses.
- Direct assessment: standardised tools such as the ADOS-2 (an interactive assessment with the child) and/or the ADI-R (a parent interview).
- Multi-disciplinary discussion: the team meets to discuss the evidence and reach a conclusion.
- Feedback meeting: you are told the outcome, with a written report.
How long it takes
This depends on local services. Waits of many months — sometimes longer — are common. Ask your local pathway for current waiting times.
What an assessment cannot do
An assessment is not a school-support plan. Even if your child is diagnosed, you will still need to work with school on day-to-day support, and may need to request an needs assessment separately if needs are significant.
After the assessment
You should be offered a written report, post-diagnosis information, and signposting to local services. Ask what is available — it varies by area.