Autism services

Not always. NHS Talking Therapies (IAPT) accepts self-referrals for common issues like anxiety and depression — no GP visit needed. For specialist NHS care (CMHT, psychiatry) you usually do need a GP referral. Private therapists and psychiatrists accept patients directly.

NHS support is free but waiting lists for talking therapies and specialist services can be long, and session counts are often capped. Private support typically starts within days or weeks, lets you choose your therapist, and isn't limited by NHS commissioning rules — but you pay per session.

It depends on what you're looking for: counsellors and psychotherapists help with talking-based support; clinical psychologists handle complex or trauma-related work; psychiatrists are medical doctors who can prescribe medication. Check each provider's regulator (BACP, UKCP, BPS, GMC) on their profile.

Yes — UK therapists are bound by their regulator's ethics framework, which requires confidentiality except in specific safeguarding situations (risk of serious harm to you or others). Your therapist will explain the limits at your first session.

If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999. For urgent mental health support: call NHS 111 and select option 2 for mental health, call Samaritans on 116 123 (free, 24/7), or text SHOUT to 85258. This site is for finding routine support, not crisis care.

On the NHS, yes - your GP refers you to a specialist autism diagnostic service. Most private clinics accept self-referrals, so you can book directly. If you are considering the NHS Right to Choose pathway, your GP would need to make that referral.

An autism assessment typically involves a detailed developmental history, a structured interview or observation, and sometimes input from someone who knew you as a child (for adult assessments). The process usually takes several hours, sometimes spread over more than one session. The specific tools used vary by provider but should follow NICE guidelines.

In some areas, yes. The Right to Choose allows you to request assessment from a qualified independent provider, funded by the NHS. However, commissioning arrangements for autism Right to Choose are less consistent than for ADHD, and some ICBs do not currently offer this pathway. Your GP or ICB can confirm what is available in your area.

Post-diagnostic support varies significantly by area. Some NHS services offer post-diagnostic groups, one-to-one sessions, or signposting to local support. Private providers may offer follow-up sessions to help you understand your diagnosis. Practical support such as workplace adjustments, Access to Work funding, and Education Health and Care Plans (for children) may also be available depending on your circumstances.

Yes. Your GP can refer your child to a local NHS child development service or CAMHS for an autism assessment. Schools and SENCOs can also support the referral process. Private child autism assessments are available and may be faster, but check whether your local authority will accept a private diagnosis for the purposes of an EHCP or SEN support.

Asperger's syndrome is no longer used as a separate diagnosis in current clinical practice. It now falls under the broader diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (also referred to as autism spectrum condition). Some people who were previously diagnosed with Asperger's continue to identify with that term, and that is a personal choice.