AUTISM ASSESSMENT
Many individuals reach adulthood without receiving an autism diagnosis. Instead, they may spend years feeling different, socially exhausted, overwhelmed by sensory environments or uncertain why everyday situations seem more challenging than they appear for others. An autism assessment can provide clarity, understanding and evidence-based support for next steps. Corteqa's structured autism assessment pathway is designed to identify traditional and subtle presentations of autism, including late-diagnosed, high-masking and previously overlooked presentations
✓ Research-led, evidence-based neurodevelopmental clinic combining clinical excellence with academic rigour
✓ Consultant Psychiatrist-led assessment pathway
✓ Clinical governance and oversight by Professor Ashok Roy, OBE,
Consultant Psychiatrist and leading UK authorityfor neurodiversity
✓ Patients typically seen within 10 days
✓ Advanced screening and clinical evaluation (N.I.C.E aligned)
✓ 2.5 hours of in-depth assessment across the full pathway
✓ Suitable for late-diagnosed, overlooked and complex presentations
✓ Comprehensive report received within 10 days of assessment
✓ Detailed recommendations and post-diagnostic guidance
✓ Accommodations for education and work
✓ Reassuringly thorough, practical and compassionate approach
Autism is frequently overlooked in adults whose differences have been attributed to anxiety, stress, personality, coping strategies or other mental health conditions. Many develop sophisticated coping strategies that mask underlying neurodevelopmental differences. Others experience periods of exhaustion, overwhelm or burnout resulting from years of adapting to environments that do not fully accommodate their needs. As a result, autism may remain unrecognised until later in life.
Why Autism is often missed in adults
Advanced Clinical Autism Evaluation
- Social exhaustion following interaction
-Sensory overwhelm in busy or unpredictable environments
-Lifelong masking and compensating for differences
-Feeling different despite adapting to every day life or seeming capable
-Workplace and relationship misunderstandings caused by communication differences
-Anxiety and distress caused by uncertainty, change and unspoken expectations
Common symptoms
Autism affects social communication, sensory processing, cognitive style, emotional regulation, predictability preferences, attention patterns, energy management, social cognition, problem-solving approaches, information and environmental adaption.
> Neurodivergence & Sleep Problems
Autism beyond stereotypes
Receiving a diagnosis is often the beginning
rather than the end of understanding. Many adults experience: relief, validation, greater self-understanding, improved educational / workplace functioning, better relationships, reduced self-criticism, improved self-advocacy and greater confidence in understanding personal strengths and support needs.
After Diagnosis
Step 1 - Validated screening questionnaires.
Step 2 - 60–90 minute pre-assessment interview with a Clinical Researcher.
Step 3 - Clinical review of findings.
Step 4 - 60 minute assessment with Consultant Psychiatrist and Clinical Researcher.
Step 5 - Diagnostic outcome and recommendations.
Step 6 - Comprehensive written report within approximately 10 days.
What happens during your assessment
- How long does the assessment take?
1 hour with consultant psychiatrist online, supported by questionnaires and
60-90 mins pre-assessment telephone nterview.
- Can adults be diagnosed later in life?
Yes. Many individuals receive a diagnosis in their 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond.
- Will I receive a report?
Yes. A comprehensive written report is provided following the assessment.
- Is ADHD often confused with anxiety?
Yes. Anxiety, burnout and chronic stress often overlap with ADHD symptoms.
- Can ADHD and autism occur together?
Yes. Many individuals meet criteria for both ADHD and autism (AuDHD).
- Is there a service to assess whether I need an assessment?
Yes. Read about our pre-assessment consultation service when you book
online and on our FAQ page. You can also contact us via our enquiries form.
- Does Corteqa assess children?
Corteqa possesses extensive expertise in assessing children with
neurodevelopmental conditions and is developing a dedicated children’s
assessment pathway.
- Does Corteqa provide medication? Our medication team is awaiting our
Governmental licence to manage regulated stimulants.
Frequently asked questions
"Receiving a diagnosis finally explained why I had struggled and suffered for decades"
>Relationships >Work >Diagnosis >Management
Lived experience