Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Below are the answers to some of the key questions our clients ask about our assessments.
Do I need a referral from my GP?
No, as a private service we accept self-referrals. Should we need any further information from your GP, we will discuss this with you first and only contact them with your consent.
Can full assessment be carried out via an online video call?
A full autism assessment involves a detailed understanding of your behaviour, communication, and social interactions. Conducting it in person allows us to provide the most thorough and high-quality assessment, capturing the nuances that matter. While initial screening sessions can be done online, the in-person format ensures we gather a complete picture and provide accurate, meaningful results tailored to you — all in a supportive and comfortable setting.
Do I need to download any applications to have my assessment?
Yes — you’ll need to download Microsoft Teams to attend your screening appointment. It’s a free app available on computers, tablets, and smartphones. We’ll send you the meeting link in advance, along with simple instructions.
Do you offer free consultations?
We do not currently offer free consultations. Our pathway offers a screening appointment for £99. This will then determine whether full assessment is recommended. The £99 fee is then deducted from the final assessment fee (so is included in the full price).
Do you have a waiting list?
We are a new, small service and are currently accepting referrals at regular intervals. In most cases, we are able to get in touch very soon after you reach out. This may change as demand increases, and we will update this section if there are any changes to availability.
How long does an autism assessment take?
Adult autism assessments can vary in length dependent on several factors (e.g., gathering supporting information, your availability). Approximatley, assessments take around one month.
Do you have any payment plans?
We do not currently offer payment plans. This is something we will continue to review and accept feedback on.
Can I claim for the assessment through my health insurance?
We are not a registered provider with any health insurance companies. You may be able to book and pay for the assessment and then claim from your own health insurance but this will depend on their terms and conditions. Please contact your health insurer for advice before booking your appointment.
Can you provide assessments under the NHS Right to Choose system?
Unfortunately, this is not something we currently offer.
Where does the assessment take place?
CADS assessments will typically take place in the comfort of your own home. We travel to you for each appointment and this is included in the price. The only time we will organise another venue is if the environment is not suitable for assessment.
What if I do not want my assessment at home or is not an option for me?
We understand an assessment at home may not always be suitable. If you prefer—or if privacy at home is limited—we can arrange a suitable local space for your assessment. There may be a modest additional cost for assessments outside the home, but we ensure these spaces are confidential, convenient, and of high quality. You would always receive a quote in advance, so there is no commitment until you are happy to proceed.
I live outside of the area CADS covers, can I still have an assessment?
Yes. During booking/screening please inform the assessing clinician and we will provide a bespoke quote to cover any additional expenses. We take into account the area that is covered into this estimate.
I would like more information about CADS policies and my rights. Where can I find these?
Comprehensive summaries of our policies are available at the bottom of every CADS webpage. Full policies are available upon request. Any additional queries can be submitted via the contact us page.
I have a pre-existing diagnosis of learning disability, can I still have an assessment?
Yes, if you have a mild learning disability, you may still be suitable for an autism assessment with us. For people with more significant learning disabilities (moderate or severe), our assessments may not be the best fit, as they often need a specialist approach to make sure the results are accurate and helpful.
If you’re not sure, just get in touch and we can talk it through. If our service isn’t the right one for you, we’ll do our best to point you in the direction of a service that can better meet your needs.