Combined Autism and ADHD Assessment

Both autism and ADHD are neurodevelopmental differences, and whilst some of the characteristics can overlap, each have their own diagnostic criteria. A combined presentation is commonly being referred to as ‘AuDHD’.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

It is important to understand that individuals experience autism and ADHD differently. Some may attempt to “mask” their difficulties around certain people or settings. If you notice that you, or your loved one has been struggling with social communication, language development, repetitive and restricted behaviours, or hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattention a combined assessment may be appropriate.

The first step to getting the right support is to receive a robust and reliable assessment from a qualified clinician. Taking that first step can be daunting, but Harley Street ADHD are here to support you every step of the way.

AUTISM

What is autism?

Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental difference which impacts how people view, communicate and interact with the world.

It is important to understand individuals experience autism differently. Some may attempt to “mask” their difficulties around certain people or settings in order to fit in.

ADHD

What is ADHD?

Characterised by hyperactivity, impulsivity or inattention, or by a combination of all three of these.

A diagnostic assessment will explore signs and symptoms of autism and ADHD, their length, along with the impact on a person’s general level of functioning. More information can be found here.

THE PROCESS

Why pursue a combined assessment?

Early and accurate diagnosis can be a powerful step toward unlocking potential and improving quality of life.

  • Gain a clearer understanding of how ADHD and/or autism may be impacting your behaviour, emotions, and daily functioning—building greater self-awareness and confidence.
  • Identify personal strengths alongside areas where targeted support may be beneficial.
  • Enable others to better support you, whether that’s in professional, academic, or personal settings.
  • Access appropriate support and accommodations, such as adjustments at work or in higher education, and eligibility for relevant services or benefits.

At Harley Street ADHD, we provide comprehensive combined assessments for ADHD and autism, led by experienced clinicians. This allows for a full and nuanced understanding of any challenges related to focus, behaviour, communication, or sensory processing.

Assessment information

Our combined assessment explores the client’s developmental history, their mental health experiences, as well as the characteristics of both autism and ADHD. The clinician will review these characteristics in line with the diagnostic criteria for autism and ADHD.

1
Pre-screening

Prior to your assessment, we will ask you to complete some questionnaires detailing possible symptoms of ADHD and Autism that you may be experiencing. Where possible, we will also ask one of your parents, or someone else who has known you well in childhood, to provide information about any difficulties that they remember you experiencing when younger.

2
ADHD and autism assessment

You will then meet with your clinician, who will perform a thorough assessment for both ADHD and Autism. Your assessment will be conducted in line with NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) guidelines. This can be conducted in one sitting, as a 3-hour appointment. Alternatively, you can be assessed over two, 90-minute appointments, depending on your preference.

3
ADOS-2 informed assessment

You will then meet with another clinician to conduct the ADOS-2 Informed Assessment (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule). This will take around 45-60 minute and involves completing a variety of different semi-structured tasks to explore further any difficulties that you may have with social communication, relationships and day to day activities.

4
Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) discussion

Once these assessments are complete, the results will be discussed in a MDT (Multi-disciplinary Team) meeting. This will include the two clinicians who assessed you, as well as other team members, and a decision will be made about a diagnosis of Autism and ADHD.

5
Feedback

The results of your assessments will then be fed back to you by your clinician. The reasons for any diagnosis of Autism and/or ADHD made will be carefully explained to you. If a diagnosis is not made, suggestions for any further assessment or treatment that may be needed, will be provided.

If a diagnosis of Autism is made, you will receive useful post-diagnostic resources and support, and if a diagnosis of ADHD is made, your psychiatrist will discuss with you a variety of treatment options, including medication.

6
Report

This comprehensive document will state the outcome of the assessment and may contain a formal diagnosis if decided upon. It will also include clear recommendations for any essential support.

 

7
Post-diagnostic support and treatment options

Harley Street ADHD offers medical treatment of ADHD, through a series of 25-minute appointments, where your medication will be carefully dosed, and your response to this monitored.

If the medication is suitable for long-term use, your psychiatrist will seek to enter into Shared Care with your GP.

Autism and ADHD Assessment

(including 180 minute psychiatric assessment, ADOS, MDT discussion and 30 minute feedback appointment)

£2000