Private testing for Autism

jellybean2025

Hi i have had a referral put through by GP for 18 yr old son suspected autism. I am thinking about going private. Any recommendations of who to go for, what to look out for. I vaguely remember something about when choosing they must be NICE registered or practice? 
Thank you

Jimm_Scope

Hey @jellybean2025, welcome to the community I hope we can help you out, it really is quite worrying how long the waits are for Autism and ADHD in adults.

I waited 18 months for an ADHD diagnosis appointment before we finally went private. Me and my partner did look into it very carefully before choosing. It's unfortunate just how expensive they are.

There is also the issue that each NHS Trust can have it's own policy on whether to accept a private diagnosis. You should check with the service the GP has referred your son to if private assessments is something they would accept.

Incase you have not already seen it, the National Autistic Society has a page on Pre-Diagnosis (aimed at parents of children). It has a small section on Private Assessments, as well as other resources.

I can speak with my partner a bit after work about how we went through selecting a clinic for my ADHD.