Get your ASD assessment within 1 week*
*Subject to forms being completed promptly
ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) Self-Referral Frequently Asked Questions
Have a question about our private ASD assessments, referrals, or how the process works? You’re in the right place.
When you are considering a private ASD diagnosis there may be questions you have about the process. Click through our frequently asked questions below to find the answers.
Can I access the private adult ASD service if I live outside England?
Yes. Our private adult ASD service is available to patients living in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, as well as England. Assessments are delivered remotely by secure video consultation.
Can I book my own appointments?
Yes, you will be able to select your date and time through our booking links.
Can I select my own clinician?
Yes, you will be able to select your clinicians by name through our booking links.
Can I take breaks during the assessment?
Absolutely. There’s no expectation to sit through the session without stopping.
If you need time to pause, reset, or step away, that’s completely fine. We want you to feel as comfortable as possible so you can engage in a way that feels right for you.
Can someone attend my appointment with me?
Yes – and for autism assessments, it’s often really helpful.
As part of the assessment, we use tools such as the Autism Diagnostic Interview (ADI-R), which looks at early development and childhood history. Because of this, we usually ask for an informant (for example, a parent, family member, or someone who knew you as a child) to be involved.
If someone can’t attend the appointment, we can provide an informant questionnaire instead. However, where possible, having someone present helps us build a more complete and accurate picture.
Can you guarantee a diagnosis?
No. We cannot guarantee a diagnosis. All assessments are carried out by appropriately qualified clinicians and are based on a comprehensive clinical evaluation in line with national guidance. A diagnosis is only made where the clinical criteria are met. Some individuals may be assessed and found not to meet the threshold for a formal diagnosis, and this outcome is an important part of ensuring safe and appropriate care.
How can I make myself more comfortable during the appointment?
You’re encouraged to do whatever helps you feel at ease. This might include:
- Bringing a comfort item or soother (e.g. fidget tools, headphones, familiar objects)
- Wearing comfortable clothing
- Having water or snacks nearby
- Choosing a quiet, familiar space if your appointment is online
Our clinicians are used to adapting the environment to suit your needs, so please feel free to let us know what works best for you.
How long are the appointments?
The assessment is completed across two appointments:
- First appointment: approximately 2.5 hours
- Second appointment: approximately 1.5 hours
We know this can feel like a long time, so you’re very welcome to take breaks whenever you need to. Just let your clinician know – the pace can be adjusted to suit you.
How much do my assessments cost?
Whether you already know exactly which assessment you need, or are simply looking for advice, our friendly team is available 7 days a week on 0121 368 0698 or minds@healthharmonie.co.uk to support/offer a suitable appointment with an experienced clinician. For more information on our assessment costs, please visit our ASD Assessment and Treatment Fees page.
Sharing Information with Informants
If you consent, we may use their contact information to:
- Send appointment reminders
- Share structured questionnaires (e.g., about childhood behaviours)
- Clarify follow-up needs
We use secure platforms such as Hero Health to manage this information confidentially and in line with GDPR standards.
What Happens if the Informant Cannot Attend?
While informant participation is strongly encouraged, we understand that it may not always be feasible. If your informant is unable to attend the appointment:
- We may arrange to collect information through a structured questionnaire or follow-up call
- The clinician may advise rescheduling the appointment if their input is critical
- If no informant is available at all, this will be discussed at clinical team level, and a decision made about how best to proceed
What is an Informant?
The Role of an Informant in Your ADHD Assessment
As part of your ADHD diagnostic process with HH Minds, it would be beneficial to have an informant attend the assessment with you. This supports a well-rounded and accurate understanding of your experiences and symptoms across different stages of life.
What is an Informant?
An informant is someone who knows you well — ideally over a long period of time — and can offer useful observations about your behaviour, attention, and functioning. Their role is to help provide a more complete picture of your developmental history and day-to-day experiences.
What to do if I want to transfer to private services, while waiting for an NHS appointment?
If you choose to explore private services while waiting for an NHS appointment, this is entirely your decision. You can contact us to discuss private assessment or treatment options and we will provide clear information about what is available, including fees and what this would involve. Choosing to access private care does not affect your right to continue with NHS services, and you are under no obligation to transfer. We aim to ensure you have the information you need to make an informed choice that is right for you.
Who is this service for / who isn’t it for?
This service may be suitable for individuals who:
- Are seeking comprehensive ASD assessment with a qualified specialist
- Want to better understand their symptoms and whether they may be related to ASD
- Are looking for a professional diagnosis and personalised treatment recommendations
- Understand that diagnosis is based on clinical assessment and established diagnostic criteria
- Are open to discussing treatment options, which may include medication, psychological support, or both
- Are seeking structured, specialist support to help manage ASD symptoms
- Have an existing ASD diagnosis and are seeking medication titration or psychological support, subject to clinical review
This service may not be appropriate for individuals who:
- Require urgent mental health or emergency support
- Are seeking medication without undergoing a clinical assessment
- Are expecting a diagnosis to be guaranteed
- Are unable to provide the information required for a safe and thorough assessment
Who Makes a Good Informant?
A suitable informant is someone who:
- Has known you since childhood, or for a significant portion of your life
- Is familiar with your attention, behaviour, and daily functioning
- Can provide honest and supportive feedback
- Is comfortable participating in a clinical conversation (in person or remotely)
Common examples include a parent, sibling, long-term partner, close friend, or teacher/caregiver.
Why do patients need to provide photo ID?
A photo ID is required for us to remain compliant with the CQC regulations. It ensures we are verifying a patient ID, helps prevent any mix ups, identity fraud and data breaches.
Why do you need a copy of my care records?
We request access to relevant care records to ensure your assessment and any subsequent treatment are safe, accurate, and clinically appropriate. Your care records help our clinicians understand your medical history, current and past treatments, and any existing health conditions that may be important when making clinical decisions. This information reduces the risk of duplication, omissions, or unsafe treatment. We only request and review information that is relevant to your care, and all records are handled securely and in accordance with data protection legislation.
Why do you need consent to contact my GP?
We request your consent to contact your GP to ensure your care is safe, coordinated, and clinically appropriate. Your GP holds important information about your medical history, current medications, and any ongoing health concerns, which helps our clinicians make informed decisions and reduce the risk of harm. With your consent, we can also share relevant outcomes from your assessment so your GP is aware of any diagnoses, treatment plans, or recommendations. We will only contact your GP for purposes directly related to your care and in line with data protection legislation.
Why Is an Informant Important?
According to national guidelines (e.g. NICE NG87), a diagnosis requires evidence that symptoms were present before the age of 12 and have persisted over time. An informant helps:
- Fill in developmental history, particularly where memory or self-report may be limited
- Provide a second perspective to complement your own reflections
Support accurate diagnosis and safe treatment planning
Will I receive a refund if I am not suitable for the ASD assessment?
Yes. Once you have submitted your referral form and completed payment, our clinical team will review your information during the pre-assessment triage stage. If it is determined that the ASD assessment is not clinically appropriate for your needs, you will receive a full refund. Our triage process ensures that the service is safe, appropriate, and in your best clinical interests before proceeding to the full assessment stage.
Can’t find the answer you are looking for?
We’re here to help. Contact us and a member of our team will get back to you as soon as possible.
Your Safety Is Our Priority
Rated Good by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), we meet high standards for safe, effective care. We deliver the same quality you’d expect in hospital, delivered by experienced clinicians in a more convenient setting.
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