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Autism
Spectrum Disorder

Comprehensive Autism Assessment Services for Adults
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What is Autism
Spectrum Disorder?

Autism is a neurological condition that is lifelong and affects approximately 1% of the population. It generally affects how an individual communicates and interacts with the world around them.

Often a diagnosis can provide clarity, peace of mind, validation and an explanation of their experiences.

What are the Symptoms of Autism
Spectrum Disorder?

At Harley Street Mental Health we recognise that everyone's experience of Autism is unique. Generally individuals can experience some of the following symptoms:

Social Interaction

  • Individuals can appear to be insensitive or come across as being unconcerned and lacking in empathy.
  • They can seek out time to be alone when feeling overloaded or overwhelmed by other people
  • They can struggle to give or receive comfort, and have difficulties with feeling too much or too little empathy
  • Difficulties making and maintaining friendships

Social Communication

  • The person can take things literally, and struggle to understand abstract concepts
  • They may need extra time to process information or answer questions
  • They can use masking behaviours to integrate socially which can leave them feeling exhausted
    They can have difficulties understanding non-verbal communication and other people's point of view

Restricted and Repetitive Behaviour

  • Individuals like routine so that they know what is going to happen and when to avoid feelings of overwhelm
  • They can engage in repetitive activities and have a clear need for sameness and familiarity
  • They can have intense and highly focused interests, and become experts in special interests
  • They can be viewed as inflexible or "black & white"

Sensory Sensitivity

  • It is important to note that we consider both hypo and hyper sensitivities in the following areas
    - Light
    - Sound / Balance
    - Taste                                    
    - Smell                                      
    - Touch /  Pressure                               
    - Temperature
    - Texture / Body Awareness
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How do we
diagnose Autism?

There are multiple different ways of diagnosing autism. Here at Harley Street Mental Health we utilise either an assessment informed by the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R) or an assessment informed by the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2). These are the two most trusted assessments. The assessment chosen will depend on your circumstances, and whether the assessment is in-person at our Harley Street address or if it is conducted virtually.

After the assessment you will receive a detailed written report outlining the findings of your assessment along with helpful recommendations.

How do we treat Autism?

Everybody’s experience of Autism will be different. Unfortunately there is not “one size fits all” treatment for autism, nor is there any medication that has been found to improve the symptoms of autism. There are medications that can help treat the comorbidities that are associated with autism, such as depression, anxiety or ADHD however these will not help treat the actual Autism.

A diagnosis can help individuals understand their difficulties and access various different services and support.

An assessment of an individual's psycho-social needs, along with sensitivities can also be helpful.

Behavioural interventions such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Social skills training, Anger management interventions, Relationship counselling and Family Therapy can be helpful in some instances and may be recommended by your clinician.
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© Copyright Harley Mental Health LTD | All Rights Reserved.
©Copyright Harley Mental Health LTD | All Rights Reserved.

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