Autism Assessments

Understanding differences in development and communication can be an important step toward meaningful support. At May Health, our ASD assessments provide clear diagnostic information, recognise individual strengths, and offer practical guidance for support across home, education, and workplace settings.

An Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) assessment is a comprehensive process used to explore whether the features of autism are present and how they may relate to an individual’s everyday experiences. It is not a single test, but a structured evaluation that considers developmental history, behaviour, social interaction, and communication.

For many individuals and families, the process can help clarify long-standing questions and offer a framework for understanding patterns that have been difficult to make sense of. The assessment report includes recommendations that may assist with support planning across home, education, and workplace settings.

An assessment may be helpful to consider when there are persistent differences in social interaction, communication, flexibility, or sensory processing. In children, these may be observed as difficulties with play, friendships, or adapting to change. Adolescents and adults may notice challenges with social navigation, sensory overwhelm, or maintaining relationships. These examples are general in nature and do not indicate a diagnosis on their own.

An ASD assessment explores both areas of difficulty and areas of strength, providing a balanced understanding of an individual’s profile. The process may assist with self-understanding and can inform recommendations to guide support across home, education, and workplace settings.

At May Health, ASD assessments are conducted with care, respect, and careful attention to detail.

The process begins with an initial screening session with Clinical Psychologist Karen Davies. This appointment explores developmental history, current concerns, and goals. The screening does not provide a diagnosis, but it helps determine whether a comprehensive assessment may be appropriate. At times, this discussion suggests that further assessment is not required; in other situations, the information gathered may indicate that a full diagnostic evaluation would be beneficial.

When indicated, the comprehensive assessment includes structured observations, formal diagnostic tools, and a detailed developmental history. With consent, perspectives from parents, teachers, or partners may be incorporated to support a broader understanding of an individual’s presentation.

Following the assessment, Karen prepares a detailed written report outlining whether the presentation meets recognised diagnostic criteria for autism. The report also provides information about areas of strength, areas of difficulty, and evidence-based recommendations to guide support.

A dedicated feedback session is then scheduled to discuss the findings. This conversation provides an opportunity to ask questions, review recommendations, and consider next steps in a supportive and reflective setting.

The value of an Autism Spectrum Disorder assessment lies in the clarity and structure it can bring to understanding developmental, behavioural, and communication differences. A comprehensive assessment helps identify whether the features of autism are present and how they may be influencing everyday life. This understanding can guide decisions about support, education, workplace adjustments, and wider wellbeing.

For families and individuals, the assessment may help explain long-standing patterns or challenges and provide a clearer framework for planning next steps. It also highlights areas of ability and preference, contributing to a well-rounded picture of the individual.

By offering a detailed formulation and practical recommendations, an ASD assessment can assist parents, educators, clinicians, and workplaces in considering appropriate strategies and accommodations. The aim is to support informed decision-making and promote environments in which the individual can participate as effectively and comfortably as possible.

ASD assessments at May Health are conducted by Karen Davies, a Clinical Psychologist with experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. Her background includes both assessment and therapeutic work across a broad range of presentations.

Karen takes a thoughtful and collaborative approach to the assessment process, aiming to ensure that individuals and families feel informed and supported at each stage. She also contributes to the supervision and training of other psychologists, reflecting her ongoing commitment to professional development and high standards of clinical practice.

If you have concerns about yourself, your child, or someone you support, an ASD assessment can help clarify whether differences in development, communication, or behaviour align with autism and what supports may be helpful.

To explore whether an assessment is appropriate, please contact May Health to arrange an initial screening appointment with Karen Davies. This session will help determine the next steps and provide guidance on the assessment process.

If you would like to discuss whether an ASD assessment may be suitable for you or a family member, please complete the form below. We will be in touch shortly to assist.