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Is there a way of being tested for ASD?

I am looking to get some answers as to whether or not I have ASD.
Since I was a child I knew that I was different from other kids and even as an adult, I feel very much the same.
Is there a way of being tested for ASD? And how easy is it to get help and support in this case?
Since I was a child I knew that I was different from other kids and even as an adult, I feel very much the same.
Is there a way of being tested for ASD? And how easy is it to get help and support in this case?
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I did go to my GP a few weeks ago and he referred me to the North Essex NHS Mental Health Trust who, as it turns out, no longer provide this service.
Is there an option to go private and if so, who would I need to contact?
Sorry to hear that, the GP has to refer you to another Autism assessment service, also contact the NAS, I am sure you will be helped. Do not go private!
Violet
ASD advisor, Scope
Do not go private, why?
1. it costs about 2000 pounds
2. A private DX is not generally accepted to gain social benefits.
3. It's your right to be referred to NHS/NAS funded Autism assessment centres/clinics.
I was immediately referred by my GP to a Cambridgeshire Autism clinic, you can contact them yourself and enquire, the details....
http://www.cpft.nhs.uk/services/class-clinic.htm
Unfortunately the information that @davidj49 is giving you is not correct. As private charges vary, some may cost as much as David is quoting, but many don't (my own was a fraction of that amount).
As has been said before, private dx are more widely accepted in adults for the simple reason that it is harder for adults to get assessed on the NHS.
Not everyone gets a dx with the sole purpose of claiming benefits - I certainly didn't. ASD is not an automatic qualification for disability benefits anyway, they are based solely on need, regardless of dx.
'Rights' aside, it can be very difficult to get referred for an NHS assessment and it is as well to know the options. That way all routes can be explored - what is right for one person might not be right for the next.
Most importantly - this forum is for those with experience of such matters to suggest ways that have helped them and which may help others. It is for advice only and is not here to tell people what they absolutely should or should not do.
Violet
ASD Advisor, Scope
Private diagnoses often cost 2000 pounds, I know this to be true.
I hope this helps.
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