Autism Diagnosis

1. Referral

• A referral is usually made by a GP, education service or health visitor if there are concerns about a child’s development or behaviour.
• Parents can also raise concerns directly with professionals involved in their child’s care.

2. Pre-Assessment Information Gathering

• Parents/carers receive a questionnaire to provide detailed background information.
• The team will also gather reports from schools, nurseries, or other professionals involved with the child.

3. Assessment Appointments

• Appointments usually involve a detailed developmental history interview with parents/carers. There will also be direct assessment of the child, by a multidisciplinary team, which may include psychologists, paediatricians, speech and language therapists and occupational therapists.  

4. Outcome

• You will receive a decision of whether your child has been diagnosed with autism. You will receive a written confirmation and the outcome is discussed with you. If diagnosed, your child and your family will be offered post diagnostic support services, which vary depending on the Trust area.

• Children’s Autism Service - Belfast Trust: 02895 040 510
• Children’s Autism Team - South Eastern Trust: 02892 607 528
• Children’s Autism Team - Southern Trust: 02838 366 777
• Children’s Autism Team - Northern Trust: 02825 633 777
• Children’s Autism Team - Western Trust: 02882 835 983

There is also the option to seek a private assessment and diagnosis. There are several independent providers of autism assessment across Northern Ireland. The cost of any private assessment can vary, so it’s a good idea to phone several and ask what costs are involved and what the cost covers. It is also important to check if your Health Trust has previously accepted the provider’s diagnostic reports and whether there is any follow-up early support offered. 

Following a diagnosis, parents may experience a range of emotions about the needs of their child. It is important to recognise that the period immediately following an autism confirmation is one of adjustments. As you gather more knowledge and understanding about autism, your confidence will grow and with it the recognition that you are the greatest, all-round expert on your autistic child.

Actively seek out people who are knowledgeable and consider what they have to say. Take time to look up early support options and decide what is best for your child and family. Above all never lose sight of the individual autistic child at the centre of any proposed support.

Find out more about our Family Support Services

1. Referral

• A referral can be requested through your GP, to the adult autism service within your Trust area. 
• Bring a list of traits or differences you’ve experienced that you think may relate to autism, so you can explain why you would like to be referred. 

2. Referral and Screening

• After referral, you may be asked to complete questionnaires about your life experiences, communication, and behaviour.
• Sometimes, people close to you (like a partner or parent) may be asked to provide input.

3. Diagnostic Assessment

• This is usually done by a multidisciplinary team (e.g. psychologist, psychiatrist, or specialist nurse).
• The assessment may include a detailed developmental history, interviews and questionnaires, and observations of how you communicate and interact. 

 4. Diagnosis and Feedback

• You’ll receive a diagnostic report explaining whether you meet the criteria for autism.
• The team will discuss the outcome with you and answer any questions.
• If diagnosed, you may be offered post diagnostic support, which will vary depending on your Trust area. 

• Adult Autism Service – Belfast Trust: 02895 041 464
• Adult Autism Service – South Eastern Trust: 02892 501 326
• Adult Autism Service – Southern Trust: 02837 564 500
• Adult Autism Service - Northern Trust: 02827 661 335
• Adult Autism Service – Western Trust:  02871 320 167

There is also the option to seek a private assessment and diagnosis. There are several independent providers of autism assessment across Northern Ireland. The cost of any private assessment can vary, so it’s a good idea to phone several and ask what costs are involved and what the cost covers. It is also important to check if your Health Trust has previously accepted the provider’s diagnostic reports and whether there is any follow-up early support offered.

Following a diagnosis, a person may experience a range of emotions about their needs, their previous experiences and their next steps. It is important to recognise that the period immediately following an autism confirmation is one of adjustments. As you gather more knowledge and understanding about autism, your perception of your diagnosis and your identity as an autistic adult may change. 

It is important to remember that being autistic is not the wrong way of processing, rather it is a natural variation in how brains process and react to information. 

You may find it helpful to access further information and support after a diagnosis - Autism NI have a range of supports and services available for autistic adults. 

Find out more about our Adult Services