High functioning Autism in Adults - Advice please re assessment & diagnosis

[MamaLlama123]

Hi Mumsnet,

I am fairly certain that i have undiagnosed autism and whilst i understand there is no cure, I would like to be assessed for this

My husband has commented many times that i'm autistic and also that our toddler is. Whilst i'm hesitant to label my child so early- it would be helpful to know for myself in case issues arise with my child in the future

I have very special interests and prefer to talk in depth on these. I struggle with communication with my child for this reason - he is not capable of having these deep conversations. Engaging with child in small talk is very difficult for me - if I have autism, it might offer explanation as to why i struggle so much with this

I am capable of working full time and actually work in a field that i have special interest. In the past, i have been disciplined - the underlying problem was my bluntness/ lacking social skills/ not understanding that criticising colleagues for not following guidelines is not the way to be popular

Overall I believe i mask and this has resulted in me being able to function well in work etc.
Due to this i feel that seeking NHS diagnosis is not an effective use of NHS resources - especially given that there will be people who seriously struggle and cannot work etc

I can afford to pay for private assessment/ diagnosis - could anyone please advise on this? are there any highly regarded companies?

Am i best to gather evidence first to support my diagnosis? any other tips

Thank you so much

I think this might be one of the most highly regarded for assessing women https://www.autism.org.uk/autism-services-directory/t/the-nas-lorna-wing-centre-for-autism

However I think you should consider getting your child on the list for NHS assessment sooner rather than later if the signs are apparent. As a toddler I think their health visitor can refer. For children at school I think the school sort of have to be involved (unless a private assessment) and I've heard that takes longer and has a tendency to get more controversial. I don't see any reason to be hesitant about labelling because there's nothing to be ashamed of and also you can choose who you share the label with to an extent.

I would highly recommend the private psychologists where I was diagnosed however it depends on where you are based ?

I had already done lots of research and took along a list of my behaviours. But you don't need to do anything in advance really, the key was an excellent understanding of how high masking adult women present.

Hi yes please who would you recommend? i am based in Norfolk

https://www.mpapro.co.uk/s/

This is who I was assessed by, but they are in Brighton.