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Child Assessment

Best Child Autism Assessment in Ireland

Child Autism Pathway - Fully recognised diagnosis & all supporting documentation as standard
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Availability Within the next 7 days
Trusted in Ireland 2,000+ People Helped
Child Consultation
Child Autism Pathway - Full recognised diagnosis & all supporting documentation as standard
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Your Child's Assessment Journey

A warm, supportive path to understanding your child's unique needs through our child-friendly assessment process

Step 1

Book your pre-assessment

Start with our welcoming discovery session with one of our psychologists — a relaxed 60 minute conversation to learn about your child's experiences and determine if a full assessment is right for your family. Available within 7 days, just €89.

Note: This is a parent/guardian consultation only — your child does not need to attend this session.

Book Pre-Assessment Call 01-6917844
Book your child's pre-assessment

No pressure, no obligation

This session is not a commitment to proceed with further assessment. You're free to take time after the meeting to decide if you'd like to continue. Our priority is ensuring you feel informed, supported, and comfortable with the process.

Step 2

Parental consultation

An online consultation where we talk through your child's history and development so far. This helps us build a clear picture of their strengths, needs, and experiences.

📝 Parents/guardians only — your child is not required for this consultation.

Parental consultation
Step 3

In-clinic assessment

👶 This is the only step where your child needs to be present

An in-clinic assessment tailored to your child's age, using activities and conversation to observe communication, social interaction, and behaviour in a natural way.

In-clinic child assessment
Step 4

Feedback and recommendations

An online session where we share the assessment results and provide you with a written report. We go through the diagnosis together, answer your questions, and agree on practical next steps so you feel supported and clear about the path ahead.

📋 Parents/guardians only — results discussion is for adults.

Parent Resources
Feedback and recommendations
Step 5

Ongoing family support

Following your child's assessment, our specialised therapists provide targeted interventions to support their development. Speech and Language Therapy helps with communication, social skills and language development, whilst Occupational Therapy addresses sensory processing, motor skills and daily living activities. These evidence-based therapies form the foundation of your child's ongoing support plan.

Explore Speech and Language Therapy Explore Occupational Therapy
Ongoing family support

Our Clinics

We offer in-person assessments and therapy at our physical clinics in Dublin and Cork.

Physical clinic location for child services in Rathfarnham, County Dublin.

AutismCare Dublin
Unit 7 Block D, Nutgrove Office Park,
Rathfarnham, Dublin, D14 AN81

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Physical clinic location for services in Blackpool, Cork City.

AutismCare Cork
Floor 2, Atrium Business Centre,
Blackpool Business Park,
Blackpool, Cork, T23 K376

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Our Child Assessment Team

Irelands Leading Child Autism Assessment Specialists

Our dedicated clinical team brings together clinical psychologists, occupational therapists, and speech & language therapists specialising in comprehensive autism assessments for children and adolescents.

✓
Multidisciplinary team approach for comprehensive assessments
✓
Child-centred, play-based assessment techniques
✓
CORU and PSI registered healthcare professionals
✓
Approved HSE Service Provider
View Full Clinical Team →
Dr. Sam Gower

Dr. Sam Gower

Principal Clinical Psychologist & Clinical Director

Luis Pinheiro

Luis Pinheiro

Chartered Clinical Psychologist

PSI, M13992C

Andreana Pulcrano

Andreana Pulcrano

Chartered Clinical Psychologist

PSI, M8919C

Caolán McCarthy

Caolán McCarthy

Senior Speech & Language Therapist

CORU no. SL044777

Our Team Members Are Registered With
CORU
HSE
PSI
AOTI
CORU
HSE
PSI
AOTI
What are the after care options for my child post diagnosis?

Occupational therapy interventions are tailored to the unique needs of child, considering their strengths, challenges, and personal goals. The aim is to enhance their ability to participate in daily life activities and improve their overall quality of life.

Establishing Goals:
Collaboratively setting realistic and meaningful goals with the child and/or their caregivers. Goals may focus on activities of daily living, work tasks, play, and leisure activities.

Skill Development:
Providing activities and exercises to enhance specific skills, such as fine motor skills, gross motor skills, sensory processing, and cognitive abilities

Fine Motor Skills Assessment:
Engaging in activities that target hand-eye coordination, finger dexterity, and precision. These activities may include handwriting exercises, crafts, and manipulation of small objects.

Adaptive Strategies:
Introducing adaptive tools, techniques, or environmental modifications to make daily tasks more manageable for the individual. This may include using assistive devices, ergonomic adjustments, or changes to the physical environment.

Gross Motor Training:
Incorporating exercises and activities to improve overall coordination, balance, strength, and endurance. This may involve exercises, games, or sports tailored to the child’s needs.

Sensory Integration Therapy:
Implementing sensory activities to help individuals process and respond to sensory stimuli more effectively. This can be especially beneficial for those with sensory processing difficulties.

Pricing for Children

Supporting your child's journey with compassionate, professional autism assessment tailored to their unique needs.

Step 2

Assessment & Diagnosis

Autism assessment and compiling of the diagnosis report

€ 1,899

Payment Plans Available

Klarna
Split any payment into 3 interest-free monthly installments
  • Combination of private video calls (ADI-R) and in-person assessments (ADOS-2) for the child
  • Our team will engage your child in play based activities to observe and understand their unique way of interacting with the world
  • A cognitive assessment* of the child, which may be conducted online or in-person, depending on the child's age and communication style

*Cognitive Assessments are carried out as part of assessment when clinically indicated

View Pricing Plans
Step 3

Report Presentation & Support Plan

Receive your full recognised Autism diagnosis report

€ 599

Comprehensive report included

Klarna
Split any payment into 3 interest-free monthly installments
  • Receive a detailed, widely recognised diagnosis report and information on ongoing support options available through our clinic network
  • Access information on benefits and accommodations for pre-school, school, or other settings
  • Connect with resources to support your ongoing needs
1 Pre-assessment
→
2 Full Assessment
→
3 Report & Support

Why families trust AutismCare.ie

✓ Approved HSE Service Provider
🔒 100% Confidential
💬 Family Support
📋 School-Recognised Reports

Built on Clinical Trust and National Support

AutismCare is a specialist-led nationwide clinic providing clinically grounded care and support for the HSE , Tusla, Department of Education and Youth and Children's Disability Network Teams. We are also a client of InterTradeIreland to innovate autism services across the island of Ireland.

HSE Approved Service Provider
Department of Education
Children's Disability Network Teams
Tusla - Child and Family Agency
Client of: InterTradeIreland

Ways to Save on Your Assessment

Claim Back with Health Insurance

Your assessment or therapy could cost less than you think. Most major insurers offer refunds on autism assessments. We'll help with all necessary paperwork.

VHI Healthcare
Laya Healthcare
Irish Life
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Claim Back with Tax Relief

You may be potentially eligible for 20% tax back on expenses paid for treatments.

Example 1:

The total cost of our adult assessment is currently €1,887, amounting to a potential tax rebate of up to €375

Example 2:

The total cost of our child assessment is currently €2,587, amounting to a potential tax rebate of up to €517

What we will provide:

A receipt and statement for all sessions attended with the relevant psychologist PSI number.

Note: We can not guarantee a rebate and suggest you check your own eligibility.

Book a Child Pre-Assessment

Select your preferred date and time for your pre-assessment consultation. Our team will be in touch within 24 hours to confirm your appointment.

Thank you for booking!
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Why we're the gold standard

AutismCare is an Irish based online practice dedicated to revolutionising access to autism diagnosis and support.

Immediate access to face-to-face online consultations with a psychologist

Full diagnosis for children are completed within 8-10 weeks

Personalised supporting documents & letters included free of charge

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Our Offering

See how AutismCare compares to the public system for adult assessment services.

Feature
Recommended
AutismCare
Public System (HSE)
Wait Time
Within 1 Week
2–4+ Years
HSE Approved Provider
Recognised Reports
Assessment from Home
Evening & Weekend Availability
Nationwide Access
Limited
Assessment Led By
Chartered Clinical Psychologist
Variable
Comprehensive Continuous Care
Limited
DARE Reports & Supports
Payment Plans & Tax Relief
N/A
Recommended

AutismCare

Wait TimeWithin 1 Week
HSE Approved Provider
Recognised Reports
Assessment from Home
Evening & Weekend Availability
Nationwide Access
Assessment Led ByChartered Clinical Psychologist
Comprehensive Continuous Care
DARE Reports & Supports
Payment Plans & Tax Relief

Public System

(HSE)
Wait Time2–4+ Years
HSE Approved Provider
Recognised Reports
Assessment from Home
Evening & Weekend Availability
Nationwide AccessLimited
Assessment Led ByVariable
Comprehensive Continuous CareLimited
DARE Reports & Supports
Payment Plans & Tax ReliefN/A
Adult Assessment Child Assessment

Child Assessment FAQ's

Cost & Pricing

How much does a child autism assessment cost?
The total cost for a child autism assessment is €2,587, broken down as follows:
  • Pre-assessment consultation: €89
  • Full assessment: €1,899
  • Feedback & report: €599
After tax relief (20%), your net cost is approximately €2,070. View our full pricing page for more details.
How can I reduce the cost of my child's assessment?
There are several ways to reduce your out-of-pocket cost:
  • Tax relief: Claim back €517 (20%) from Revenue
  • Health insurance: Potential coverage of €400–€900 depending on your provider
  • Payment plans: Spread the cost over time with flexible options
Best case scenario: your final cost could be as low as €1,270 (down from €2,587).
Are AutismCare covered by private health insurance?
Yes, often. Coverage varies by provider, but typical amounts include:
  • VHI: €500–€900
  • Laya Healthcare: €400–€700
  • Irish Life Health: €300–€600
We provide all documentation needed (PSI numbers, CORU numbers, receipts, clinical codes) to support your claim. This can be combined with tax relief for maximum savings.
Am I able to claim tax back from Revenue against the cost of my assessment?
Yes, typically 20%. For a child assessment costing €2,587, you can claim back approximately €517, bringing your net cost to €2,070. To claim, submit through Revenue's myAccount or use Form Med 1. We provide all necessary documentation including PSI numbers, CORU numbers, and receipts to support your claim.
Is there a payment plan?
Yes. We provide flexible payment options to make assessments accessible:
  • Pay in stages: €89 (pre-assessment) → €1,899 (assessment) → €599 (feedback & report)
  • Klarna available: Split each payment into 3 monthly instalments
  • Custom payment plans available on request
Can I claim tax back?
Many families qualify for a ~20% rebate from Revenue. We provide the necessary receipts and PSI numbers.

About the Assessment

Who conducts the assessment?
We use a Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) model. Two or more clinicians specialising in child and adolescent autism conduct your child's assessment using internationally recognised evidence-based tools and observational methods in line with best practice for Ireland. Our MDT teams always consist of a chartered clinical psychologist specialising in autism assessments paired with either a speech and language therapist or occupational therapist also specialising in autism assessments.
Is the assessment done online or in person?
The main part of the assessment is done in person at our sensory-considerate in-person clinics in either Rathfarnham, Dublin or Blackpool, Cork City. A portion of the assessment (including interviews and questionnaires) can be done online.
What age should my child be assessed for autism?
We can assess children from 2 years old up to 18 years old. Reliable diagnosis is possible from age 2–3, and there is no upper age limit for children and adolescents. Earlier assessment means earlier support—helping your child access the understanding and resources they need sooner.
Can a GP diagnose autism in Ireland?
In Ireland, GPs do not diagnose autism. Autism assessments and diagnoses are carried out by clinical or educational chartered psychologists, psychiatrists, or multidisciplinary teams. A GP can be helpful in recognising autistic traits and supporting a referral, but a GP referral is not required. You can self-refer directly to AutismCare for an assessment.
What if my child has other conditions?
We integrate information about co-occurring conditions (e.g. ADHD, anxiety, learning differences) into our assessment. Our report presents a holistic profile, your child's strengths, challenges, and overlapping conditions, and recommended next steps and/or referral pathways if required.
What diagnostic criteria and tools are used?
We use gold-standard, HSE-recognised assessment methods:
  • DSM-5 criteria: The internationally recognised diagnostic framework
  • ADOS-2: Play-based observation tool
  • ADI-R: Comprehensive parent interview about developmental history
  • Clinical observation: Expert assessment across interaction and behaviour
Will assessment highlight my child's strengths too?
Yes. One of our guiding principles is neuroaffirmative practice: we present not just challenges, but your child's preferred ways of interacting, special interests, and capabilities.

Recognition & Support

Is your diagnosis accepted by schools?
Yes. Our diagnoses are widely recognised and can be used to support Student Support Plans, IEPs, and access to resource teaching or SNA support where applicable. AutismCare are also an approved HSE service provider.
Can I use the report for RACE / DARE / exam accommodations?
Yes - our comprehensive reports meet standards for exam accommodations (RACE) and for DARE / higher education applications, where clinically relevant. Our clinical and administrative team can provide assistance here as required.
What happens after a diagnosis?
You'll receive a detailed feedback session (online) and a comprehensive written report. Together with your clinician, you'll discuss recommendations, therapies (speech & language, occupational therapy), school planning, support at home, and community resources.
How does a diagnosis support my child's education?
It clarifies for teachers and school staff how your child learns, communicates, and regulates. This understanding can guide accommodations (e.g. structured breaks, alternate presentation of content, sensory supports) and formal supports (IEPs, supports hours).
Can an autistic child qualify for disability support?
Yes. Under Irish systems, autism can qualify as a disability in certain contexts. You may be eligible for support or benefits, consult with your local social services for specifics and this can be discussed directly with our clinical team. Further information can also be found by searching the supports listed here: https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/social-welfare/.

Process & Timeline

How do I get started with a child autism assessment?
You begin by booking a pre-assessment session with a psychologist. This is a 60-minute remote consultation with parents only—your child does not attend this first session. The cost is €89, and appointments are typically available within 7 days. This exploratory conversation helps determine if a full assessment is right for your child, with no obligation to continue.
How long does the full assessment take?
From first contact to final report, the full process is usually completed within 8 to 10 weeks with all required inputs from parents completed.
What are the steps included?
  • Pre-assessment / discovery session (parents only)
  • Parental consultation (developmental history, questionnaires)
  • In-clinic child assessment (observation, interaction tasks)
  • Feedback & report presentation (online with parents)
  • Ongoing support and therapeutic interventions
Typically, the in-clinic child assessment lasts around 2–3 hours, depending on the child's engagement level and need for breaks. Parent consultations last approximately 60–90 minutes. Feedback forms can take a couple of hours to complete and the report presentation lasts up to 60 minutes.
Do you involve school staff?
Yes. with your permission, we request teacher questionnaires or observations to complement and provide a comprehensive picture across settings.
Do both parents need to attend consultations?
We require that at least one parent or guardian attend all stages. Where possible, both parents should attend the pre-assessment and feedback sessions, as these discussions are crucial for shared understanding and next steps.
What should I expect in the initial consultation?
You'll discuss your concerns, your child's developmental history, and how they engage socially and emotionally. Your clinician will determine whether a full assessment is appropriate.
How should I prepare my child?
Explain that they'll do some fun, low-pressure tasks or play with someone who is trying to understand how they think and interact. Ensure they're rested and not anxious.
Are assessments done in person?
Yes. the child's direct assessment is in person, at our Dublin or Cork clinics. Parent interviews and feedback are online.
Will my child be observed across multiple settings?
We rely on parent and teacher input plus direct clinic observation. In some cases, additional observation in natural settings may be considered if needed.
Can you assess autism if my child has already been assessed elsewhere?
Yes. Our clinicians regularly complete second opinions or follow-up assessments where previous results were inconclusive or limited. We review all prior reports before proceeding.
What if my child does not engage during the assessment?
Our clinicians are experienced in working with children who may feel unsure, anxious, or reluctant. Assessments are:
  • Flexible and child-led
  • Play-based where appropriate
  • Adapted to your child's pace and needs
  • Structured with breaks as needed
If a child finds it hard to engage, this in itself can provide helpful information for the assessment. If needed, sessions can be paused or rescheduled. There is no right or wrong way for a child to take part, and no child can "fail" an assessment.
What if my child is non-verbal?
Yes, we assess children who use little or no spoken language. Our approach includes:
  • Use of ADOS-2 modules designed for minimally verbal children
  • Detailed parent or caregiver interviews
  • Careful observation across play and interaction
  • Play-based methods that do not rely on spoken language
Communication is understood in many forms, including gestures, actions, facial expression, and interaction styles.

Practical Information

Where are your clinics located and is parking available?
Our child assessments take place in sensory-considerate clinical environments in Rathfarnham (Dublin) and Blackpool (Cork City). Both locations offer easy access by car and public transport, with on-site or nearby parking available.
What's the advantage of a private assessment?
Our services are highly accessible (no long public waitlists), you have direct access to highly trained autism assessment and supporting specialists, and faster insights for your child. At AutismCare, pre-assessments run within a week, and full child assessments aim for 8–10 week completion, earlier finishes are possible with extensive parent input.
Is follow-up support available?
Yes. after diagnosis, we offer tailored therapy (speech & language, occupational therapy) and work with you to build a long-term support plan.
Are there support resources for parents?
Yes. We provide webinars, guidance documents, and community resources to help parents navigate autism support pathways.

Understanding Autism

What signs suggest my child might need an autism assessment?
Some signs include differences in how your child communicates or interacts with others (preferring to avoid eye contact, or making intensive eye contact' to account for 'overstarers', flapping or stimming, speaking at length about passions and interests, or preferring solitary play). Having very focused passions and interests can be a sign. Having noticeable preferences in relation to senses (seeking or avoiding certain sensations) is another main characteristic. No two autistic children are alike, so the presence or absence of any of the above does not necessarily determine if your child is autistic. These are however characteristics which autistic children and adults often share.
How may autism show up in young children?
Early signs of autism in young children may include:
  • Limited or unusual eye contact
  • Speech or language delays
  • Repetitive behaviours (hand flapping, lining up toys)
  • Sensory sensitivities (to sounds, textures, lights)
  • Difficulty with changes in routine
Every child is different, and the presence or absence of these signs doesn't definitively indicate autism—a professional assessment provides clarity.
What is the difference between autism and ADHD?
While autism and ADHD can look similar, they have distinct characteristics:
  • Autism: Differences in social communication, interaction styles, and repetitive behaviours or focused interests
  • ADHD: Difficulties with attention, focus, and may include hyperactivity or impulsivity
These conditions can co-occur—research suggests 30–50% of autistic individuals also have ADHD. Our assessment process can identify both if present.
Why is early assessment important?
Early identification lets your child grow up with an implicit understanding that their autistic communication, interaction and sensory preferences are valid. It allows you to support them in framing the way they navigate the world as a neurodivergent person in a strengths-focused light from a young age, and mitigate the impact that navigating allistic (non-autistic) oriented spaces can have on your young person's self image and wellbeing.
Can autism be confused with other conditions?
Yes. Characteristics can overlap with ADHD, anxiety, language disorders, and more. That's why a multi-disciplinary and comprehensive approach is essential.
What if my child is not diagnosed with autism?
You'll still receive a full report outlining observations and recommendations regarding other potential needs or supports or referral pathways indicated if clinically indicated.
Can the assessment give insight even without a positive diagnosis?
Yes. The process helps clarify how your child learns, senses, thinks, and interacts—information useful even in absence of diagnosis.
What does "neuroaffirmative" mean?
It means accepting that there is a large variation among the kinds of nervous systems people have. Some people experience the world in the way a majority of people do, others have characteristics and ways of experiencing which are less common. But this does not mean that one way of experiencing the world is "better" or than the other. Neuroaffirmative practice acknowledges and affirms differences without making moral judgements on what is "correct" or "normal".
Does it mean my child's support needs will be overlooked?
No. Neuroaffirmative practice ensures that your child's experiences are understood and validated by others. We can not, and will not try to make your child less autistic or to appear less autistic. We will help you advocate for your child accessing the appropriate supports for them. These will be individualised to meet your child's needs.
Do you teach "social skills"? Why not?
Autistic and non-autistic (or "allistic") children have different ways of communicating and interacting which work for them. Social skills interventions are typically devised to teach autistic children to appear less autistic. This promotes masking and camouflaging which is bad for self esteem and increases autistic people's marginalization.
Book an Assessment with AutismCare

Connect with recognised specialists that guide you towards clarity and improved focus.

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Have a questions? Call us on
+353 1 691 7844

Call +353 16 917 844