At Healios, a combined autism and ADHD assessment for adults is delivered through a series of structured video appointments with specialist clinicians.
Some people use the word “AuDHD” to describe being both autistic and ADHD, and there is growing awareness and discussion about what makes AuDHD experiences unique.
These assessments aim to understand attention, activity levels, social communication, sensory experiences, and everyday challenges. Some adults may receive a diagnosis of autism, ADHD, both (AuDHD), or neither. Even if a diagnosis is not given, the assessment can provide valuable insights, practical strategies, and guidance to help manage everyday life, work, and relationships.
Many adults seek combined assessments after noticing overlapping signs of attention difficulties, impulsivity, social challenges, or sensory sensitivities. At Healios our specialist clinicians understand that AuDHD can often present as a unique set of experiences and challenges, and are trained to think about this with you through assessment. The process helps bring clarity, reassurance, and practical advice regardless of the outcome.
At Healios, we make combined assessments clear, supportive, and compassionate, helping adults better understand themselves and develop strategies to thrive.
What are autism and ADHD?
Autism is a natural variation in how people think, communicate, and experience the world. It can affect social interaction, communication, routines, sensory processing, and interests. Autism is not an illness and does not need to be cured, but understanding it can help adults and those around them navigate life more effectively.
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, activity levels, and behaviour. Adults with ADHD may experience difficulties with focus, organisation, time management, impulsivity, or restlessness.
Some adults experience signs of both conditions (AuDHD). Combined assessments are designed to capture overlapping and distinct patterns to provide a clear understanding of how these neurodevelopmental differences may affect everyday life.
What are the signs of autism and ADHD in adults?
Autism and ADHD can present differently in each adult. Common signs include:
Autism signs:
- Difficulty interpreting social cues or understanding others’ perspectives
- Sensory sensitivities (e.g., to noise, touch, light)
- Preference for routines and predictable environments
- Intense focus or special interests in specific topics
ADHD signs:
- Trouble maintaining attention and focus
- Forgetfulness or missing details
- Difficulty with organisation and time management
- Restlessness, impulsivity, or acting without planning
Why AuDHD may go unrecognised:
Being both autistic and ADHD can sometimes mean:
- Later diagnosis – because the signs may be less ‘obvious’.
- Under-diagnosis – one condition can “mask” the other.
- Different presentation – the way traits show up might not match the usual expectations professionals look for.
Because these behaviours can appear in adults without either condition, an experienced clinician is required to make a formal diagnosis. A diagnosis is only given when signs have been present over time, across multiple settings, and clearly impact daily life.
Accessing combined assessments at Healios
Healios provides online combined ADHD and autism assessments for adults across the UK. We accept referrals via NHS services where available, as well as private self-referrals for adults seeking independent assessment.
Once a referral is received, our team will contact you to schedule your appointments.
What is an online combined ADHD and autism assessment?
A combined assessment follows a similar structure to an individual ADHD or autism assessment but is designed to explore signs of both conditions together. All appointments take place via secure video calls using our digital platform, Panacea. Adults can:
- Join video appointments
- View session notes
- Manage appointments
- Invite family members or supporters to take part, if desired
Completing assessments at home allows adults to feel more comfortable, helping clinicians gain an accurate understanding of everyday behaviour, attention, and social interaction.
How do online combined ADHD and autism assessments work at Healios?
Step 1
Complete questionnaires
Adults complete online questionnaires about attention, behaviour, social interaction, routines, sensory experiences, and daily challenges. With consent, input may also be requested from someone who knows you well, such as a partner, family member, or colleague.
Step 2
Attend assessment sessions
Combined assessments typically include:
- Initial session
Meet your clinician to discuss concerns, explain how the assessment works, and review personal, educational, and work history.
- Observation and structured assessment session
This session usually lasts around two hours. Clinicians explore attention, organisation, impulsivity, social interaction, routines, sensory sensitivities, and other daily functioning aspects. They also consider whether other mental health or neurodevelopmental conditions may be contributing to difficulties.
Step 3
Receive outcome and discuss next steps
After the appointments, the clinician meets with a multidisciplinary team to review findings and agree on an outcome. A detailed report is prepared, and a follow-up session is arranged to explain the results, answer questions, and discuss strategies, therapies, or medication options where relevant.
What happens next?
Whether a diagnosis of autism, ADHD, both (AuDHD), or neither is given, Healios ensures adults feel informed, supported, and clear about next steps.
If a diagnosis is given
A diagnosis can help adults understand their strengths, challenges, and needs. It can guide access to workplace adjustments, therapies, and practical strategies for daily life.
Where available, Healios provides post-assessment support for adults. These sessions allow the individual to explore the diagnosis, ask questions, and develop strategies for attention, organisation, social interaction, and sensory management.
If NHS-funded post-assessment support is unavailable, we provide information about other services and charities. Private post-assessment support, including ADHD medication guidance, is also available.
If no diagnosis is given
Not receiving a diagnosis does not invalidate your experiences. Clinicians provide a detailed report explaining the findings and reasoning, along with recommendations such as:
- Further assessments (e.g., for anxiety, depression, or other neurodevelopmental conditions)
- Practical strategies for attention, organisation, social interaction, and daily routines
- Signposting to local services, charities, or support organisations
Clinicians take time to discuss the outcome, helping adults understand the results and available support options.
Beginning a combined ADHD and autism assessment can feel daunting, but Healios provides high-quality, compassionate care to help adults understand themselves and develop strategies to thrive, regardless of the outcome.
Frequently asked questions about online ADHD assessments
How long does a combined assessment take at Healios?
Combined assessments usually take place over two main appointments: an initial session to gather background information, followed by a longer structured assessment session of around two hours. A separate feedback appointment is then used to discuss the outcome and next steps.
Are online combined assessments as robust as in-person assessments?
Yes. Healios’ online combined assessments follow the same clinical standards as in-person assessments. Clinicians use structured interviews, validated questionnaires, and expert clinical judgement.
Who can refer an adult for a combined ADHD and autism assessment at Healios?
Referrals are usually made via NHS services or local mental health teams. Private online combined assessments are also available for adults seeking an independent route.