At Healios, an online autism assessment for an adult is delivered through a series of structured video appointments with specialist clinicians.
Many adults explore an autism assessment after noticing differences in how they communicate, relate to others, or experience the world. These differences may come alongside unique strengths, challenges, or patterns of behaviour that prompt questions and a desire for deeper understanding.
For many individuals, receiving a diagnosis can bring clarity and reassurance. It can help the individual, family, employers, or educational providers better understand strengths and challenges, reduce uncertainty, and create more supportive and accommodating environments. A diagnosis can also support access to workplace adjustments, further education, or targeted therapeutic interventions.
We know this process can feel daunting. At Healios, we aim to make assessments as clear, supportive, and compassionate as possible. An autism assessment is an important step towards understanding yourself, accessing support, and helping you thrive.
What is autism?
Autism is a natural variation in how people think, communicate, and experience the world. Many autistic adults have unique perspectives, talents, and ways of navigating everyday life.
Autism is not an illness and does not need to be cured. However, differences in social communication, sensory processing, or routines can sometimes make everyday life more challenging. Understanding autism can help adults and those around them access the right support at the right time.
What are the signs of autism in adults?
Autism is a spectrum condition, meaning it can present differently for every individual both in terms of lived experience and severity. Individuals may seek an assessment if they or someone close to them has noticed some of the following:
- Difficulty understanding or interpreting social situations
- Challenges forming or maintaining relationships
- Repetitive behaviours, routines, or rituals
- Heightened sensitivity to sound, touch, taste, or light
- Significant distress when routines are disrupted
- Intense focus on particular interests or activities
Accessing autism assessments at Healios
Healios provides online autism assessments for adults across the UK. We work in partnership with NHS services and Health Boards where appropriate, and also offer private assessments for individuals seeking support independently.
If Healios is available in your area, your local NHS service may refer you for an assessment. Once a referral is received, our team will contact you to explain the next steps and arrange appointments. Private self-referrals are also accepted.
What is an online autism assessment for adults?
Online autism assessments follow a similar structure to in-person assessments but take place via secure video appointments instead of clinic visits.
At Healios, we use gold-standard diagnostic tools and evidence-based approaches to ensure assessments are robust and accurate. Our clinicians deliver assessments through our digital platform, Panacea, where adults can:
- Join video appointments
- Manage and view appointments
- Access session notes
- Invite family members or supporters to take part, if appropriate
Completing assessments at home can help adults feel more comfortable and relaxed, while also giving clinicians a more accurate picture of everyday behaviours and interactions.
Step 1
Complete questionnaires
Before the assessment, you will be asked to complete a small number of online questionnaires about your development, behaviours, and experiences. We will also request input from someone who knows you well, referred to as an ‘informant’, such as a partner, parent, or close friend where possible.
Step 2
Attend assessment sessions
Online autism assessments at Healios usually involve three core appointments:
- Initial assessment
Meet your lead clinician to discuss your concerns, explain how the assessment works, and review your history, strengths, and challenges. - Observation session
You will meet with a second clinician where you will participate in structured tasks and activities designed to help the clinician observe communication and interaction. This is not a test, and there are no right or wrong answers. - Informant interview
A second clinician may speak with someone who knows you well to gain additional context about your development and daily life, where appropriate and possible.
Review
Upon completion of all sessions, the clinicians will meet to discuss all of the information gathered and provided in order to reach a diagnostic outcome.
Step 3
Receive the outcome and discuss next steps
Following the above appointments and review, a detailed report is prepared. You will be contacted to share the outcome and agree on a feedback session date and time. This feedback session is a space for us to explain the outcome, hear from you, answer any questions, and discuss recommended next steps.
What happens next?
Receiving the outcome of an autism assessment can be an important and emotional moment. Whether a diagnosis is given or not, our priority is to ensure you feel informed, supported, and clear about the next steps.
If you receive an autism diagnosis
A diagnosis can help you and those around you better understand your strengths, challenges, and needs. It can also support access to workplace adjustments, further education, and evidence-based therapeutic strategies such as CBT or social skills support.
Our clinicians will discuss the outcome with you in a follow-up appointment, answer any questions, and provide personalised recommendations.
Where available, Healios offers post-assessment support for adults. These online sessions provide a safe space to explore what the diagnosis means, consider helpful strategies, and plan practical steps for home, work, and social life.
If NHS-funded post-assessment support is not available in your area, we will provide information about other relevant services, charities, and resources.
Private post-assessment support is also available.
If you do not receive an autism diagnosis
Not receiving an autism diagnosis does not mean your experiences are invalid, or that support is unavailable. Some adults may have traits or challenges that do not meet the threshold for a diagnosis and can access support in other ways, or may benefit from assessment in other areas such as ADHD, anxiety, or sensory processing.
If no diagnosis is given, our clinicians will provide a detailed written report explaining the findings and reasoning. This report can help you and professionals understand your profile and access targeted support.
You may also receive recommendations for:
- Further assessments or referrals, if relevant
- Practical strategies for everyday life, work, or relationships
- Signposting to local services, charities, or support organisations
We will take time to discuss the findings with you and answer any questions, helping you understand what the outcome means and what support options are available.
Beginning the process of an autism assessment can feel daunting, but you do not have to navigate it alone. At Healios, we provide high-quality, compassionate care designed to help individuals feel understood, supported, and equipped to thrive.
Frequently asked questions about online autism assessments
How long does an online mental health assessment take at Healios?
The duration varies depending on individual needs and the service you are referred to. Your appointment confirmation will explain how long your session is expected to last. As a guide, mental health assessments typically last for 90 minutes.
Who can refer me for an online mental health assessment?
Referrals usually come from NHS services such as adult mental health teams, GP surgeries, or other local NHS services. Your local service will confirm whether an online assessment with Healios is an option.
Can a family member or supporter join an online assessment?
Yes. Where appropriate, supporters can join part or all of the session. To arrange this, please contact your clinician and they will be able to explain how this works and how to include them.