1 - Who can have an autism assessment?

We provide comprehensive autism assessments for children, adolescents, and adults who may be experiencing characteristics associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Our assessments are tailored to the individual's age, developmental stage, and personal circumstances, ensuring a thorough, evidence-based, and neuro-affirming evaluation.

You may wish to consider an assessment if you or your child experience ongoing difficulties in areas such as:

• Social communication and interaction

• Sensory sensitivities or sensory-seeking behaviours

• Strong preference for routines and predictability

• Intense or highly focused interests

• Emotional regulation or managing change

Whether you are seeking answers for yourself or your child, our team aims to provide a respectful, supportive, and comprehensive assessment process that helps you better understand your strengths, challenges, and support needs.

 

2 - Am I guaranteed to receive an autism diagnosis?

No. An autism assessment does not guarantee that you or your child will receive an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) diagnosis.

The purpose of the assessment is to determine whether the individual's presentation meets the DSM-5-TR diagnostic criteria for ASD. Our clinicians carry out a comprehensive, evidence-based evaluation, considering developmental history, current functioning, clinical observations, and information gathered from standardised assessment tools and other relevant sources.

Regardless of the outcome, you will receive a detailed diagnostic report outlining the assessment findings, clinical formulation, and personalised recommendations tailored to the individual's strengths, needs, and goals.

If the assessment indicates that autism is not the most appropriate explanation for the presenting difficulties, we will discuss this with you and, where appropriate, consider alternative explanations (differential diagnoses) and recommend appropriate supports or onward referrals.

 

3 - Can the assessment be completed online?

Where possible, we recommend that at least one appointment is conducted in person, as this allows the clinician to build rapport and gather valuable clinical observations. However, much of the assessment process can often be completed online.

For adults, the clinical interview, developmental history, questionnaires, and feedback session can usually be completed remotely. Depending on the individual's presentation, the clinician may recommend an in-person appointment if it is clinically indicated.

For children and adolescents, some appointments, such as the parent/developmental interview, questionnaires, and feedback session, can often be completed online. However, the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule – Second Edition (ADOS-2) must be conducted face-to-face, as it involves direct observation of communication, social interaction, play (where appropriate), and behaviour.

Your clinician will discuss the most appropriate assessment format with you to ensure the process is tailored to your individual needs while maintaining the highest standards of clinical practice.

 

4- Will my private health insurance cover some of the cost?

Yes, many private health insurance providers offer partial reimbursement for autism or other neurodevelopmental assessments. However, the level of cover varies depending on your insurer and your individual policy.

We recommend contacting your insurance provider before your assessment to confirm what is covered and whether any documentation is required.

If it is helpful, our clinical psychologists are Chartered Psychologists registered with the Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI).

We can provide receipts and any supporting documentation required for insurance claims where appropriate.

 

5- Can I claim tax relief?

Potentially, yes. In many cases, clients may be able to claim tax relief on eligible health expenses through Revenue.

We provide detailed invoices containing the necessary information, including our professional registration details where applicable, to support your claim.

As eligibility depends on your individual circumstances and current Revenue guidelines, we recommend checking the latest information on the Revenue website or speaking with your tax adviser.

 

6- Is my information kept confidential?

Yes. All information you share with us is treated as strictly confidential and stored securely in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and Irish data protection legislation.

There are, however, some limits to confidentiality. As mandated persons under the Children First Act 2015, we have a legal obligation to report child protection or welfare concerns that meet the reporting threshold to Tusla – Child and Family Agency. We may also need to disclose information where there is a serious and immediate risk of harm to you or another person, or where disclosure is required by law