What is Autism
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is also known as ‘Autism’ or ‘Asperger Syndrome’. It is a condition that affects the way an individual makes sense of the world. Autism is caused by genetic factors. It occurs in more than 4 in 100 people and leads to difficulties in social and communication skills and ability to be flexible about things; often having strong, narrow, repetitive interests and routines. Many individuals also describe sensory sensitivity (i.e. to sound, touch, taste or smell).
More men are diagnosed with Autism than females (but it is believed that many females may have been missed or misdiagnosed). Many individuals with Autism may have an average or above-average IQ and excellent attention to detail.
It is not uncommon for a diagnosis of Autism to be accompanied by other neurodevelopmental disorders, (e.g. ADHD, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia) and mental health difficulties such as anxiety and depression.
Benefits of diagnosis
Some adults seek a diagnostic assessment as they did not have access to services when they were younger. Others say that they have always used strategies to disguise how much they were struggling. Some individuals feel their symptoms have previously been misinterpreted as behavioural or mental health difficulties.
Receiving a diagnosis in your adult years can be a mixed experience, many people feel an overwhelming sense of relief as they can finally put a name to all the difficulties they have been facing and feelings of being ‘different’ and ‘alone’. Others feel sad that it has taken so many years to receive their diagnosis leading to another inaccurate diagnosis.
Many individuals describe finding it helpful to be able to finally access support (e.g. social support groups, post diagnostic Autism services), relevant information and benefits (e.g. housing, supported employment, advocacy and mentoring), and access reasonable adjustments (e.g. through work and university) and are better able to understand their needs.
The Assessment Process
An autism assessment for adults is diagnosed by gathering evidence from an individual, their loved ones and by completing clinical analysis. Currently, there is no blood test or brain scan that can test for Autism. It is a bit like a jigsaw, gathering pieces of information from different sources to see if the picture is autism or if the symptoms an individual experiences are better explained by something else, for example, trauma, anxiety or difficulties with learning.
The Edinburgh Practice follows best practice guidance for adult assessments for autism from the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE, 2014) and Scottish Intercollegiate Guidance Network (SIGN 2016) and uses a range of gold-standard clinically recognised autism assessment tools.
Stage 1: The Clinical Assessment
An appointment will be arranged at The Edinburgh Practice or video conferencing that is convenient to you. Normally this lasts around 2 hours. For clients’s travelling to Edinburgh, it can be possible to complete the assessment and feedback session all in one day, you just need to request this at the time of booking an assessment.
At the start of the appointment, the clinician will want to get to know you, the reasons you have come for an assessment and more about the difficulties you are experiencing. It may help to bring along any notes you have to the session.
Following this, there will be a structured interview. This will involve the clinician asking you questions about your relationships, interests and how you feel about things, combined with some tasks that will be explained in detail at the start of the assessment.
Stage 2: Additional Information/Assessment
The clinician you see for the assessment will ask if there is someone who knows you well who can contribute to the assessment (e.g. parent, sibling, partner, boss, friend). Questionnaires will be given to these individuals with your permission and the Clinician will contact them for more information. We are aware that not everyone will have someone they can ask to be involved in an assessment and this will not prevent you from having an assessment.
Occasionally, some clients have other difficulties (e.g. medical, significant mental health, learning or speech and language) that need a further assessment before a conclusion can be reached. Support with accessing this assessment is offered.
Stage 3: Feedback, Support & Recommendations
Once all of the above information is gathered, you will be provided with feedback on whether or not you meet the criteria for Autism or whether there is another reason you may be experiencing the problems you described in session.
We will aim to complete the feedback appointment within 2 weeks of your first assessment session. This session typically lasts around 2 hours.
As well as feeding back the outcome of the assessment, the Clinician will give you the opportunity to ask questions and discuss concerns. For many individuals, the desire to explore whether they have Autism or not will be driven by a current change in mood or circumstances. Information about what supports may best meet your needs after the assessment will be provided in this appointment. We are able to offer post-diagnostic support and psychological therapy at the practice specifically tailored to people with Autism, please do ask our team if this is something you wish to pursue after receiving your feedback session.
Report
A report detailing the outcome of the assessment and conclusion will be provided to all individuals. Our Clinicians can also provide a less detailed letter stating the diagnosis which does not contain any of the more private details discussed in the assessment, so that it can easily be given to those who support you, for example, your manager or university student services.
Written information will also be provided about what local supports may be helpful to access moving forward.
Additional sessions or reports can be provided that detail more specific work and educational adjustments. You can discuss the cost of these with the Clinician in the session.
Clients Travelling to Edinburgh
It is possible to complete the assessment and feedback session all on one day, with a break in the middle (taking 4 hours in total). You just need to advise this at the time of booking an assessment. Please note that this is not possible for all clients and our team will review the referral information to consider whether this may be clinically appropriate based on each individual’s unique circumstances.
Our Fees
£1750
Autism assessment for adults
Happy Monday! This Monday, ‘M’ stands for Moments and we are sharing how we can savour the little moments in our lives to increase our happiness, sense of gratitude and quality of life.
Learning to savour the moment in life is a free and effective way to increase your happiness, reduce stress and improve quality of life. Enjoying what you have can help you to appreciate what you’ve got rather than ruminating on what you don’t have.
How to savour the moment in your everyday life:
💛 Focus on the positives: Consciously notice what is going right for you and appreciate it! Positive thinking isn’t the same as pretending you are happy when you are not, it is about noticing the things that can lead to greater happiness.
💛 Focus on the details: Notice the little things that can make a day special such as someone’s smile, the kindness of a stranger or a beautiful sunny day.
💛 Express gratitude: Notice all the nice things others do for you and thank them when you can! Keep a journal and write down the things in your day you are grateful for.
💛 Focus on sensations: Engage your senses! Pay attention to everyday sensations like the feeling of cold wind on your face, the smell of fresh coffee or fresh bread.
💛 Do what you enjoy: Life is meant to be enjoyed and savoured! Add activities into your schedule that you love doing.
We encourage to savour these little moments in you week so you can live fully in the present!
#moments #theedinburghpractice #mentalhealth #positivity
This Friday we are checking in with our Speech and Language Therapist Michelle!
Michelle is one of the lead clinicians for our child autism assessments, she is passionate about improving outcomes for individuals who have neurodevelopmental differences. Michelle’s clinical work holds individuals and their families at the centre to help them understand their neurodevelopmental profile and provide supports to reduce the impact of any challenges.
At TEP, we provide ‘gold-standard’ autism assessments, ensuring that individuals and families can access expert clinical assessments in a timely manner.
Check out our new practice videos on our YouTube Channel to find out more! (link in bio)
#fridaycheckin #theedinburghpractice
This week, TEP are supporting #antibullyingweek!
The theme this year is ‘Choose Respect’ which has come about following consultation with teachers and pupils by the Anti-Bullying Alliance (ABA) who are the official organisers of this important week. Teachers and children wanted a theme that empowered them to do something positive to counter the harm and hurt that bullying causes.
We know that the term ‘respect’ can mean different things to different people. When we talk about respect, we talk about showing that you value someone, including valuing their feelings, views, and opinions, even if they differ from yours. We also talk about accepting and understanding others, giving others the same consideration you would expect for yourself.
We also want to highlight that bullying does not end in the playground, but can continue for adults within the workplace and at home.
How to actively ‘Choose Respect’:
⭐️Actively listening: making effort to listen to other’s perspective without interrupting
⭐️Use “I” statements: Frame your thoughts and feelings using “I” statements to avoid accusing others
⭐️Stay calm and take breaks if you feel overwhelmed
⭐️Focus on behaviour not character
⭐️Seek common ground
⭐️Reflect and learn
We encourage you to always ‘Choose Respect’ even if you don’t always agree with others or even like them.
#antibullyingweek #ChooseRespect #mentalhealth #theedinburghpractice
Happy Monday everyone! We’re back with another ‘M’ word - Meeting others!
🙌 The power of connection cannot be overstated. It’s through connection that we build support networks that uplift us in tough times and remind us that we are not alone. Positive interactions nurture self-esteem, create a sense of belonging, and offer comfort during stressful periods. Meaningful connections with others can be essential for reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. Whether we’re talking with friends, joining support groups, or simply sharing a smile, each interaction contributes to emotional stability and resilience.
🤝 Beyond support, meeting others opens doors for personal growth, learning, and collaboration. It broadens our perspective, fuels creativity, and encourages empathy and compassion as we understand experiences different from our own.
💛 So maybe your next conversation could be a reminder that you are seen, heard, and valued!
#MentalHealth #ConnectWithOthers #MeetingOthers #TheEdinburghPractice
Happy Friday everyone! This #fridaycheckin we are checking in with our emotions!
Emotions are always sending us messages, just like the characters in Inside Out 🧠💬. Sometime we can feel all kinds of emotions at once - joy, sadness, anger, fear, and anxiety. At times, these feelings can be overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that they are part of being human.
💛 This #fridaycheckin, let’s take a moment to check in with ourselves and embrace our emotions.
😊 Our weekend watch recommendation is Inside out or Inside out 2! For children and adults!
#InsideOut #EmotionsMatter #MentalHealth #TheEdinburghPractice
It’s International Stress Awareness Week! Let’s focus on simple steps that can make a real difference in managing stress and improving wellbeing - small actions to make big changes!
👫 Connect with someone: Check in with your support network. A quick check-in or chat with a friend can lift spirits and remind us we’re not alone!
😴 Prioritise sleep: Take small steps to improve your bedtime routine. Wind down by minimising screen time and/or create a clean and restful sleep environment. Rest is essential as good sleep helps us recharge and face challenges with a clearer mind!
🏃♀️ Move in your own way: Get moving the way you want to! This could be walking, stretching, yoga, or doing some gardening. Moving your body releases tension and stress.
🌱 Spend time in nature: Take some time out of your day to step outside and get some fresh air. Even a few minutes outside can bring a sense of calm and a fresh perspective!
🫁 Breathe deep: Short, shallow breaths can heighten anxiety, so taking time to breathe deeply can help us shift into a relaxation mode.
🧘♂️ Practice mindfulness: This allows you to focus on the here and now. Try to find time each day to observe and just be.
Remember, even the smallest steps can lead to big changes. Take it one moment at a time! 💛
#StressAwarenessWeek #InternationalStressAwarenessWeek #TheEdinburghPractice
This Monday, ‘M’ stands for Mental Health Myths!
💛Mental health matters and so does the truth! Stigma around mental health isn’t just a barrier, it’s a wall that keeps people from seeking help, sharing their stories and finding comfort within their community. The impact of stigma can also worsen mental health difficulties!
💛At TEP, we believe in breaking the stigma surrounding mental health by challenging myths and creating an encouraging culture where everyone feels safe to seek the support they need. We encourage you to talk openly about mental health myths, listen compassionately to others experiences and support one another!
💛Let’s be part of the solution, not part of the problem!
#mentalhealthmyths #theedinburghpractice
Happy Friday! This #fridaycheckin we are checking in with your sleep with our Clinical Director, Dr Fiona!
💭Sometimes, the pace of everyday life barely gives us time to stop and rest. It can make getting a good night’s sleep on a regular basis seem like a dream.
😴Sleep is an important part of our daily routine and is essential for good health and wellbeing. Dr Fiona discusses why we may be struggling with sleep, what is “healthy” sleep and the effect of sleep on one’s mental health! Watch until the end for her top tips for a good night’s sleep!
💤We encourage to check in with your own sleep routine as it is as important as diet and exercise!
#sleep #fridaycheckin #theedinburghpractice #mentalhealth
Today as part of ADHD Awareness Month our Head of Growth and Operations, Hazel and Assistant Psychologist, Frances headed down to Atria One (@atriaone) to share more information about our services and assessments to a range of businesses!
Head to our website (link in bio) to find out more about our gold standard ADHD assessment and support services for children, young people and adults.
#adhdawarenessmonth #mentalhealth #theedinburghpractice
👋 Welcome back to our Monday ‘M’ series! This week, ‘M’ is for Minute!
We all have moments when emotions can start to take over and sometimes, we just need to ‘take a minute’ to step back. The STOPP technique is a powerful tool from CBT than can help us pause and respond to challenging situations in more helpful ways.
How to use STOPP:
✨ Practise the first 2 steps often for a few days
✨ Read through the steps often
✨ Carry written reminders with you or use the STOPP app
✨ Practise it by running through all the steps several times, every day, even when you don’t need it
✨ Start to use it for little upsets
✨ Gradually, you may find that you can use it for more distressing situations
Like any new habit or skill, we need to practise it and eventually it will become automatic.
#TakeAMinute #MentalHealth #CBT #TheEdinburghPractice
Welcome back to another #fridaycheckin! This week we are checking in with our new Child and Adolescent Consultant Psychiatrist, Dr Alex Beadel.
Dr Alex prioritises creating an open, empathetic, non-judgemental, and reassuring environment where young people feel safe and understood. He believes in a collaborative approach, ensuring that a young person’s unique needs and preferences guide the treatment journey.
At TEP, our psychiatrists have expertise across a range of areas including;
💛ADHD
💛Autism
💛Anxiety and Panic Attacks
💛Depression
💛OCD
💛Social and behavioural difficulties
💛Trauma
💻For more information about psychiatry, head to our website (link in our bio).
#fridaycheckin #theedinburghpractice #childpsychiatry #psychiatry
🌟 October is ADHD Awareness Month and this years theme is ‘Awareness is Key’.
💡 ADHD is much more than what meets the eye. It affects people in different ways, often falling under two categories: Inattention and Hyperactivity & Impulsivity. Many people experience a combination of both. In Scotland, approximately 5% of children and between 2-4% of adults are diagnosed and living with ADHD. Though the exact statistics are unknown because data on ADHD is not currently being routinely published and it is thought that many people may not have obtained a diagnosis or be receiving treatment.
🧠 The exact cause of ADHD is not fully understood, although it is thought a combination of factors are responsible. ADHD tends to run in families and in most cases, it’s thought the genes inherited from parents are a significant factor in developing ADHD. However the way ADHD is inherited is complex and is not thought to be related to any single gene.
🤝 While ADHD can present challenges, it can also bring unique strengths! People with ADHD can be adventurous, creative and resilient, just to name a few! Society can sometimes focus on the negatives of ADHD but there are so many skills and abilities beyond neurotypical counterparts. We want to challenge and break some common myths surrounding ADHD!
💛 Let’s celebrate the diversity in how ADHD minds work and raise awareness to support those who live with it every day. The more we know, the better we can offer understanding and help create spaces where everyone can thrive. At TEP, we offer gold-standard ADHD assessments for children, young people, and adults. We also offer post diagnostic support for children, adults, parents/carers and families, delivered at the practice, online and/or in educational settings.
#ADHDAwarenessMonth #ADHDStrengths #Neurodiversity
This Monday, ‘M’ is for Mantras!
🧘♀️The term ‘mantra’ means an instrument of mind or thought. It can be a word, sound or phrase that is rhythmically repeated during meditation.
💭Mantras can occupy the mind in a way that stops your normal train of thought and allow you to clear your mind. They have the power to focus the mind, body and breath in unison towards a certain goal, intention or purpose.
Using mantras in your meditation and in your day to day life may help with:
💛 Stress management
💛 A positive outlook
💛 Increased self-awareness
💛 Anxiety
💛 Low mood
💛 Cognitive functioning
💛 Staying focused on your goals
🫶Mantra-meditation can be helpful for times where you feel anxious, stressed or low. It can also be great for practicing mindfulness and bringing the attention back to self.
#mantramondays #mentalhealth #meditation #theedinburghpractice
Happy Friday! We’re back for our #fridaycheckin and today we are checking in with our body.
In today’s fast-paced world, burnout is more common than ever and our wonderful Sport Psychologist, Dr Zoe, is giving us some insight into how to prevent burnout.
😌 Taking the time to incorporate different types of rest is essential for maintaining our overall wellbeing. The different types of rest include:
🛏️ Physical rest: We often think of rest as just lying down or sitting, but it can also include stretching, taking a nap, getting a massage, or taking short breaks.
🧠 Mental rest: We live in a world that is always ‘on’, and it can be challenging to unplug. Mental rest can include turning off your phone, taking a break from social media, or practicing meditation.
💛 Emotional rest: Take a break from the emotional demands we face every day. This can include spending time alone, reducing stress where possible, talking to a trusted friend, practising self care, or spending time in nature.
🙋♀️ Social rest: We are social beings, but socialising can also be draining. Social rest can include spending time alone, considering when you want to socialise & when you don’t want to, or having a solo picnic, hike or lunch.
🔇 Sensory rest: We are constantly receiving sensory input from noise, light, and other stimuli and it can be overwhelming. Sensory rest can include turning off the TV, closing your eyes, spending time in a quiet room, listening to calming music, or practising deep breathing.
Remember - rest is not a luxury, it’s a necessity! Embracing and prioritising the different types of rest can help us live healthier, happier, and more fulfilling lives 😊
#theedinburghpractice #fridaycheckin #checkinwithourbody
This week is OCD Awareness Week!
At TEP, we are supporting and sharing awareness for #OCDweek. This worldwide event by @iocdf serves to dispel myths about obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), break the stigma around mental illness, and provide education about the disorder and how to support those affected.
OCD affects 1 in 100 adults and 1 in 200 children but can be overlooked and belittled as a personality quirk or choice. In reality, OCD is a very real mental health difficulty that affects people of all ages and walks of life.
OCD is an anxiety disorder involving obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviours. Obsessions are unwanted, intrusive thoughts, images, or urges that trigger intensely distressing feelings. Compulsions are behaviors an individual engages in to attempt to get rid of the obsessions and/or decrease distress. Compulsions can be internal (mental) or external behaviours.
Research has shown that most people have unwanted intrusive thoughts from time to time, but in the context of OCD, these intrusive thoughts come frequently and trigger extreme anxiety, fear, and/or disgust that gets in the way of day-to-day functioning.
At TEP, we offer psychology and psychiatry services to support individuals with OCD. Please head to our website (link in bio) to find out more or to submit a self-referral.
#OCDweek #ocdawarenessweek #theedinburghpractice #mentalhealth
