What is Autism?
There has been increased recognition and awareness of autism over recent years. More people have been seeking an assessment for a diagnosis in adulthood.
Diagnostic criteria refer to social and communication difficulties, as well as a preference for sameness, strong interests and sensory sensitivities. As autism is a neurodevelopmental condition, these differences would have been present since childhood. Diagnostic criteria refer to these as ‘impairments’ and ‘deficits’ however there is increased recognition of the strengths that the autistic brain and neurodiversity can have. As these difficulties exist on a spectrum, there is a lot of variety amongst people with ASD.
The National Autistic Society are a good source of information about autism: What is autism?
The Autism Quotient test was designed by Simon Baron-Cohen, a well-renowned researcher into autism. The tool is widely available on the internet and can easily be accessed via search engines. Although this is not definitive, i.e., it is not 100% accurate, it can be a useful tool in thinking about whether someone may exhibit any autistic traits.
Reasons To Get An Assessment
For a lot of adults with ASD, receiving a diagnosis can be a positive first step towards self- acceptance. It can help people to understand the difficulties that they have had throughout their life and give them chance to learn more about ASD. It may also be helpful for an individual to share a diagnosis with friends, family, colleagues or employers as this will help them to understand better. It can help them to empathise with any difficulties and provide an individual with extra support. It may also be helpful in seeking appropriate support from local services, if needed.
Why Go With Clarity?
• We are proud that all of our Clinical Psychologists have many years experience in providing diagnostic assessments for autistic adults. All of our clinical psychologists have either led or had a senior role within NHS adult autism diagnostic services, now or in the past. Collectively, we have assessed thousands of individuals both in the NHS and in private practice. All our clinical psychologists are registered with the HCPC, our regulatory body.
• All of our assessments have a Clinical Psychologist as the lead diagnostician. This is in line with recent NHS England guidance which states that autism assessments can be conducted by single clinicians from particular professional backgrounds.
• We have lots of experience of assessing and diagnosing females and are skilled at being able to pick up the subtleties in terms of how autism is different in women and girls. We are confident at being able to explore masking strategies which may be missed by less experienced assessors.
• We are trained in gold-standard assessment tools which aid our clinical decision making, including the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, the Diagnostic Interview for Social and Communication disorders and the Autism Diagnostic Interview.
• We are also able to offer a team approach to assessments when this is required with our associates. There is no additional cost for this.
• As we have recently expanded our team, we are able to work to short waiting times and we are often able to arrange your first assessment appointment within 2-4 weeks of you confirming that you wish to go ahead.
• We are able to offer appointments at various locations in Greater Manchester, as well as online.
• We provide a detailed report as standard which includes clinical information gathered during the assessment to support any diagnosis given. The report also includes information about the clinicians involved in your assessment, such as their skills, experience and qualification. We will share the report with your GP for your medical records if you would like us to.
• We have a fantastic post-diagnostic support offer. This includes invitation to a series of 4 workshops which are co-developed and co-delivered by our autism experts who have lived experience of autism. They are able to bring their own expertise and reflections which are invaluable to our attendees. We are able to arrange one-to-one sessions with one of our clinical psychologists who is experienced in working with autistic clients to support their emotional well-being and develop coping strategies.
• We are also able to provide assessments for ADHD. A high percentage of autistic people also have ADHD (AuDHD) and therefore, if it is deemed appropriate, we can arrange for further assessments. We have links to a prescriber who would be able to initiate medication, when appropriate.
• Importantly, we have a neuro-affirming approach to assessment. We believe that autism is a difference and not a disorder. The autistic brain is simply wired differently and people experience the world in a diverse way. There are a great many strengths and positive traits which are associated with autism, as well as the differences which can lead an individual to experience challenges in living in a world which does not always understand and embrace autism.
• Lastly, lots of our clients are anxious about attending assessments. For them, going to new places and meeting new people are things that can trigger anxiety and overwhelm. However, we are able to put individuals at ease during our first meeting. You can also let us know if there is anything that might help to reduce anxiety before the appointment. We'd be happy to arrange a phone call to discuss the assessment before your appointment.
Who We Are
We are a team of highly specialist and experienced clinical psychologists who have expertise in assessing and diagnosing autism. We have extensive experience of working in the NHS, including setting up and managing adult autism diagnostic services in various areas.
Dr Kate Leonard
My name is Dr Kate Leonard and I qualified as a clinical psychologist in 2007. I am registered with the Health Care Professionals Council. I have extensive NHS experience, having worked in the NHS for 23 years. I have been conducting diagnostic assessments in ASD since 2010. This was the main part of my job when I was clinical lead for an NHS Autism Diagnostic Service for adults from 2012 until 2023. Now, my clinical work is focused on meeting the needs of my clients with Clarity Manchester.
I set up Clarity Manchester in 2014 to be able to offer timely autism assessments for adults (age 16 and above). I see a lot of people who are frustrated with the length of NHS waiting lists and are keen to arrange an assessment more quickly. Sometimes, individuals are seeking to develop their understanding of themselves with a view to them accepting their differences and embracing their strengths. I also see a number of people who are hoping for a diagnosis to be able to access support at work or in education. Interestingly, most of the clients I see are women, many of whom end up with a diagnosis, which probably reflects the tendency for them to be missed early in life.
I am trained in using the Autism Diagnostic Observations Schedule (ADOS) and the Diagnostic Interview for Social and Communication disorders (DISCO) – both of which are gold-standard tools for assessing and diagnosing autism spectrum disorders.
Dr Lynsey Fulton
My name is Dr Lynsey Fulton and I have been working as a qualified clinical psychologist since 2013. I am registered with the Health Care Professionals Council and have been employed in the NHS since 2007. Prior to training as a clinical psychologist, I worked in learning disability and autism services in several different capacities, working directly with children and adults as well as with their families/carers
Since qualifying, I have continued to work in learning disability and autism services. In my current NHS practice, my role involves carrying out diagnostic assessments with adults using the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) and the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R). I have completed training to use both of these assessments which are gold standard assessment tools.
Dr Anna Dodd
My name is Dr Anna Dodd, I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist and I have been qualified since 2005. I am registered with the Health Care Professionals Council and am a Chartered member of the British Psychological Society. I have been working in the Nhs for 23 years. I have been conducting autism assessments since 2005. This is currently the main focus of my NHS post, as well as providing clinical leadership for an NHS adult autism diagnostic and post diagnostic service. I am heavily involved in ongoing work across the GM region with their autism strategy and follow up groups.
I have worked with autistic people, including children, adults and families/carers since 1997. My interest was first sparked during my childhood, when my mum worked in a school for autistic children. This led to me completing my undergraduate dissertation with autistic children. This interest has only grown ever since. I am a strong advocate for the autistic community and have a strong neuroaffirmative ethos
I have extensive experience of conducting autism assessments, and am trained in the ADOS. I have 20 years experience in using the ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview-revised).
Dr Ellen Harper
My name is Ellen, I qualified as a Clinical Psychologist in 2021. I am registered with the Health Care Professionals Council. I specialise in working with people who suffer with a range of difficulties including past traumas, relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem or a sense of feeling stuck. Having worked in NHS Adult Mental Health settings since 2016, I have a wealth of experience working with autistic adults and the difficulties they may face. I recognise the importance of tailoring communication and interpersonal approaches to suit each individual's needs, including the consideration of traits associated with autism.
I adopt an integrative approach when working with people, drawing on a range of models including compassion and acceptance based approaches, relational and cognitive approaches. Guided by an open and collaborative style, I strive to work together with clients to better understand their difficulties and diagnosis(es), as well as find ways to make meaningful changes within a relatively short period of time
Rebecca Leonard
I joined the team around September 2023, before starting University. I am currently studying undergraduate Psychology at the University of Leeds in hopes to go on to be a clinical psychologist! My role is to support you in your journey with Clarity, from your initial contact with us to your first appointment with your psychologist. I will be answering your emails promptly and helping you to book appointments. I will also answer any questions you may have or direct your queries to our associates.
Dr Emma Chorlton
Dr Emma Chorlton, Principal Clinical Psychologist completed her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology at Lancaster University, qualifying in 2013. Emma has worked with autistic adults and adults with learning disabilities since qualification, and has worked in Wigan Adult Autism Diagnostic Service (part of Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Trust) since 2018. In February 2023 she became the lead for post-diagnostic interventions for autistic people within this service, and she continues to work there to date. She is a registered Clinical Psychologist with the Health Care Professions Council.
Emma has completed training in using the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS; a direct assessment of autism), Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R; a developmental interview), and the Autism Clinical Interview Adults (ACIA; an interview which can be used to gather current and developmental information from adults seeking diagnosis or people who know them well). She is also a Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) Practitioner and has written published work about doing CAT with autistic people
Dr Louise Hall
My name is Dr Louise Hall and I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist. I am registered with the HCPC and a chartered member of the British Psychological Society. I have worked in the NHS since 2004 and qualified as a Clinical Psychologist in 2008. During this time, I have worked with children and adults across a range of settings and have specialised in working initially with adults with learning disabilities and then with autistic adults. I currently lead an NHS adult autism diagnostic service, where I routinely conduct autism assessments as well as providing strategic leadership for the service. In addition to my clinical work, I have previously completed research during my doctoral training in conjunction with the National Autistic Society, which looked at the experiences of families with young autistic children.
I strongly believe in the importance of timely diagnosis and of the positive impact this can have in someone’s journey of self-awareness, which is what brought me to working with Clarity. I am trained in the use of the ADOS-2, ADI-R and the ACIA, all standardised tools often used in the assessment of autism.
Abigail Gibson
My name is Abigail Gibson. I am a team member at the Greater Manchester Autism Consortium, part of the National Autistic Society. I’ve been in my current role since 2017, and the core focus of my work is supporting autistic adults as they come to terms with a diagnosis, develop self-knowledge, and begin to navigate life through the lens of their unique way of being.
Alongside this, I offer advice and support to parents of autistic children, as well as professionals seeking guidance across the Greater Manchester area. This work has given me a strong understanding of local services and how they operate.
Outside of my role, I’m a parent to three young neurodivergent people, and I’m married to a neurodivergent husband. I’m also autistic myself, which allows me to connect with others from a place of shared experience. I believe this is central to how I support the people I work with.
I am deeply invested in the self-discovery journeys of autistic people and strive to be a safe and affirming presence. My aim is to help others uncover what brings them joy and to embrace a way of being that honours their identity—recognising that they are not flawed, but autistic.
Becky Spawton
My name is Becky Spawton. I am passionate about challenging stereotypes, raising awareness, improving education around neurodiversity and bringing about positive change for autistic children and adults!
I have a varied academic background, with degrees in social studies and law, plus training in counselling. I previously worked in Legal Practice with a strong focus on social justice. I arrived at my facilitation and education pathway through lived experience.
As an autistic person and a mum, I have direct experience of autism within my immediate and extended family. I actively research and educate myself, to support those closest to me. As a result, I have gained a wealth of knowledge and experience, which have led me into various roles facilitating, advocating and training around the understanding of different neurotypes. I have a strong neuro-affirmative approach.
I currently work for CAMHS as Neurodiversity Trainer and also work for IAPT, delivering autism training for mental health professionals. Previously, I worked for Autism Central at Great Minds Together as a Peer Educator, supporting and educating autistic adults and families. I am a member of both the GMAC family and adult advisory groups and am trained as an EBE by NATP.
I hope to support you in your journey through assessment, diagnosis and beyond!
Amanda Ponton
My name is Amanda Ponton, I qualified as a Social Worker at Salford University in 2004, then went on to complete both my post graduate degree and MA in Autism Spectrum at Sheffield Hallam. I am registered with Social Work England, and I am trained in the use of ADOS-2, ADI-R and ACIA autism diagnostic tools.
My experience in the field of autism is broad, I have worked with, for and alongside autistic children and adults for over 30yrs. Most of my career has been spent working at a senior level for a national autism charity, where I continue to support a project working with HM Probation Services, aimed at improving outcomes for neurodivergent people on probation, and reducing the risk of re-offending.
I am passionate about supporting timely and neuro-affirming diagnostic assessments and in addition, offer a range of post diagnostic support, with the intention of helping autistic individuals, their families or service providers, better understand an autistic diagnosis, and develop strategies to successfully navigate challenges at home, college, work or social situations, including help recognising the need for reasonable adjustments, and support in negotiating these.
The Assessment
Some people have found it hard to get a diagnostic assessment from the NHS. They may wish to be seen more quickly that their local NHS services can offer.
How do I arrange an assessment with you?
If you want to go ahead and arrange an independent assessment, then you can email us at claritymanchester@protonmail.com .
We will respond to your email within 2 working days of you making contact with us. Please make sure that you include your telephone number so that we can call you to discuss scheduling an appointment.
What does an assessment involve?
An assessment would typically involve 2 sessions of up to 3 hours in total. This would consist of general information gathering, administration of the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule and speaking to someone else who knows you well. Ideally, this would be someone who is able to give information about your early development, usually a parent. In cases where it is not possible to speak to someone who knew you well when you were growing, we can usually work around this by asking about your memories of childhood and speaking to someone who knows you well now, like a partner or close friend.
After the assessment is complete there will be a feedback session to discuss the outcome and a full report will be provided detailing the assessment process and my clinical opinion.
Where would the appointments take place?
Each of our associates offer appointments in different locations which means that we are able to be flexible about where we can see you. We arrange our appointments at various locations in Sale, Chorlton, Gatley and Bolton. Do let us know when you contact us if you have a preference about where you would like to be seen.
Do you offer virtual appointments?
Yes - during the pandemic, clinicians had to adapt their typical means of assessing autism when we were unable to meet face to face. Many NHS and independent practitioners began to conduct assessments virtually. Being able to offer appointments online is convenient and can reduce anxiety about the assessment process as clients do not have to travel to new places. We are continuing to offer online appointments which will be offered using Microsoft Teams. This means that we are able to see clients from anywhere in the UK.
How long will I have to wait to be seen?
We endeavour to see people within 4-6 weeks of them confirming that they wish to go ahead, although this may be slightly longer over holiday periods or if we are very busy. We will keep you updated if your wait is going to be longer than that.
When do your appointments take place?
Appointments will be arranged at a mutually convenient time. Evening and weekend appointments can also be arranged.
How much does the assessment cost?
Clinical assessment, feedback session and full report will cost £1600.
Do you offer any options to spread payments?
We are able to offer payment plans through Go Cardless. This means that payments would be spread as 4 payments of £400. Do contact us for more information regarding this..
Do you offer assessments for any other conditions?
A standard part of the assessment process would be explore an individual’s emotional well-being, including the presence of anxiety disorders and/or depression.
We are also able to offer assessment for ADHD alongside an ASD assessment. This means that we do not provide ADHD assessments in their own, only as an additional diagnosis with autism. There is an additional cost for this extra part of assessment. It should be noted that as we are clinical psychologists, we are not able to prescribe medication.
We are also able to offer assessment in relation to learning disability. Again, contact us for further information.
Do you have any options to discuss the assessment before I decide whether I want to go ahead?
Absolutely; we are more than happy to talk through the assessment over the telephone or answer questions over email before you decide if you want to go ahead.
We also have an option for a screening appointment if you are not sure if an assessment is right for you. This might be appropriate if it has not been suggested by a health care or education professional that you might be autistic. A screening appointment is a 90 minute session where we would offer our opinion at the end as to whether a full assessment would be indicated. The cost of this is £300 however we would deduct this from the cost of a full assessment if you went ahead. Please ask us for more details if you want to arrange this.
Do you offer any support following diagnosis?
We are now able to offer post-diagnostic support for people after they receive a diagnosis from us. Do ask us for more information about this.
Testimonials From Clients
"From seeking the diagnosis which in itself is a challenging prospect Kate was supportive and very helpful in trying to accommodate me. From arranging dates and times to a professionally produced report at the end of the process. I would have no hesitation in recommending Kate to anyone in a similar situation to myself."
"Having what I said summarised at regular intervals was beneficial because I then knew that what I was saying made sense to the interviewer. It was quite cathartic getting everything off my chest particularly as I don’t usually talk about my feelings or past events. Since the interview a lot has clicked into place!"
"For the rest of the family it has helped enormously to frame our thinking and when we can, shape how we deal with a situation. We still have massive melt-downs and some very trying situations but having a context really helps."
“It was an easy quick process. From start to finish I felt heard and understood"
“Now that I have been diagnosed I am able to make the first steps in understanding the condition I have, take ownership of it and start to create a life that can manage it rather than the other way round!
“I found my assessment with Kate and Lynsey very easy and comfortable. From the initial contact, everything was very professional and the assessment was arranged quickly and easily. I was made to feel at ease throughout the process and I was given a thorough and informative report after my assessment . I would have no hesitation recommending Clarity, a professional and caring service. Finding out I am autistic has changed my life for the better, as now everything has fallen into place.”
“I found Kate to be very helpful and supportive throughout the ASD assessment process. From the beginning she quickly dispelled any anxieties I had and was very accommodating in terms of times and dates to suit my requirements. Kate produced a very professional report at the end of the assessment. I would recommend Kate to anyone in a similar situation.“
NAS info: Leonard, Kate (Dr) (autism.org.uk)
Post-Diagnostic Support
We have recently expanded our service to be able to offer support to people we have been diagnosed as autistic.
What is available?
We have two options available.
One-to-one psychological therapy
Firstly, we are able to offer one-to-one sessions with one of our psychologists, Dr Ellen Harper, to help you understand your diagnosis and develop strategies to help you cope with the challenges you may experience. The sessions will be guided by you in terms of what would be most helpful to discuss. These sessions are usually relatively short-term, ie 6-8 sessions but can be guided by what you need.
Dr Ellen offers a free 15 minute initial consultation so that you can meet and discuss your goals of therapy. The sessions are delivered online and are charged at £120 for one hour meeting.
Post-diagnostic workshops
Secondly, we have recently developed a course of post-diagnostic workshops. The research tells us that people adjust and accept their diagnosis better when they are offered post-diagnostic support, particularly when this is in a group format and includes the opportunity to connect with others autistic people.
How long is the course?
The course will be 4 small group sessions which will be 90 minute each.
What will the sessions cover?
The sessions include information about autism, coping with stress and anxiety, understanding emotions and triggers, disclosing your diagnosis, rights and entitlement.
How much does it cost?
The cost of the course if £50 per session - a total of £200 for the course.
When and where is the course?
Sessions will be delivered at a regular time either weekly or fortnightly. The meetings will be delivered by one of our clinical psychologists and our autism consultants, who have lived experience of autism.
Most of the courses will be delivered online however we are hoping to deliver some courses face-to-face in the future.
Following your diagnosis we will send you further details and a link so that you can state your preferences about when and where you would be able to attend.
Feedback from previous attendees
"I am extremely grateful for the course and have found it extremely helpful"
"It was also really helpful to have autistic people who are clearly living well with the diagnosis giving us information."
"It affirmed many of my autistic experiences"
There was very relevant content that was educational for me, plus the input from the other participants. It was also really helpful to have autistic people who are clearly living well with the diagnosis giving us information. Also having psychologist Kate there to talk us through everything was extremely beneficial. I actually found it very supporting and empowering.
I found the sessions full of information and a really helpful first step on from the diagnosis. The peer facilitators are really valuable, somehow their advice is particularly useful, and being alongside other people in the same situation does help to validate your own experience. It was all more positive than I expected.
100% of attendees said that the sessions were useful
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