FAQ'S

We use a Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) model. Your child's assessment is conducted by two or more clinicians using internationally recognised tools.

Our MDT teams include:

• Chartered Clinical Psychologist (autism specialist)
• Speech & Language Therapist OR Occupational Therapist (autism specialist)

All clinicians follow Irish best practice guidelines.

The main assessment is in-person.
This takes place at our sensory-considerate clinics in Rathfarnham (Dublin) or Blackpool (Cork City).

Some supporting steps, such as parent interviews and questionnaires, can be completed online from home.

We assess children and adolescents from 2 years old to 18 years old. We tailor the entire process based on your child's age and developmental needs.

We take a holistic view. We integrate information about co-occurring conditions into our assessment, such as:

• ADHD
• Anxiety
• Learning differences

Our report presents a full profile of your child's strengths, challenges, and overlapping conditions.

We follow internationally recognised frameworks and use standardised, evidence-based tools, including:

• DSM-5 (Diagnostic criteria)
• ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised)
• ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule)

These are used alongside clinical observation and developmental history.

Yes, absolutely.
We use a neuroaffirmative approach. This means we don't just look for "deficits." We highlight your child's:

• Unique strengths and capabilities
• Special interests and passions
• Preferred ways of interacting

Yes. Our clinicians regularly complete second opinions or follow-up assessments where previous results were inconclusive. We will review all prior reports before proceeding.

Yes. Genetic factors are known to play a role, though environmental factors also contribute. It is common for parents to recognise traits in themselves during their child's assessment.

Yes. Our diagnoses are widely recognised and can be used to support:

• Student Support Plans
• IEPs (Individual Education Plans)
• Applications for SNA support or resource teaching

AutismCare is also an approved HSE service provider.

Yes. Our comprehensive reports meet the standards required for:

• RACE: Exam accommodations in school
• DARE: Higher education access schemes

Our administrative team can assist with the necessary paperwork.

Often yes, though it depends on your specific insurer and plan.

We provide all necessary documentation to support your claim, including:

• PSI numbers (Psychological Society of Ireland)
• CORU registration numbers
• Formal receipts

Yes, typically. You can usually claim 20% of the cost back through Revenue's medical expense tax relief.

What you need to know:

• Relief is granted as a tax refund
• You must have paid tax in the relevant year
• We provide all required receipts and professional registration numbers

Check the Revenue website for full details.

Our Clinical Director, Dr Sam Gower, supervises all clinical processes and assessments.

About Dr Gower:

• Clinical Psychologist with 17+ years of experience in Ireland and the UK.
• Former Clinical Director roles in the NHS and Pieta House.
• Previously Principal Clinical Psychologist for clinics specialising in autism, intellectual disability, and brain injury.

All our staff are Garda vetted, qualified, and registered with professional bodies. We also undergo independent healthcare audits every two years.

Yes, in many cases.
Under Irish systems, autism can qualify as a disability. This means you may be eligible for:

• Domiciliary Care Allowance
• Carer's Allowance
• Incapacitated Child Tax Credit

Our clinical team can advise you on the documentation needed. For specifics, please visit Citizens Information.

It clarifies for teachers exactly how your child learns, communicates, and regulates. This understanding guides:

• Accommodations: Structured breaks, sensory supports, alternate presentation of content.
• Formal Supports: IEPs and SNA access.

You'll receive a detailed feedback session (online) and a comprehensive written report.

Together with your clinician, you'll discuss:

• Therapeutic recommendations (SLT or OT)
• School planning
• Support at home
• Community resources

Yes. After diagnosis, we offer tailored therapy (Speech & Language, Occupational Therapy) and work with you to build a long-term support plan.

Yes. All our psychologists, occupational therapists, and speech and language therapists are qualified and registered with their respective professional bodies. Our reports are recognised by the HSE and Department of Education.

Yes. We provide webinars, guidance documents, and community resources to help parents navigate autism support pathways.

Step 1: Pre-assessment Session.
This is a 60-minute remote exploratory conversation with a psychologist. It costs €89.
Note: The child is not present for this session.

From first contact to final report, the full process typically takes 8 to 10 weeks (assuming all parent forms are returned on time).

• Pre-assessment: Discovery session (parents only)
• Parent Consultation: Reviewing developmental history & questionnaires
• In-Clinic Assessment: Child observation and interaction tasks (2-3 hours)
• Feedback: Results & report presentation (Online)
• Next Steps: Ongoing support recommendations

You'll discuss your concerns, your child's developmental history, and how they engage socially and emotionally. Your clinician will then determine whether a full assessment is appropriate.

Yes. With your permission, we request teacher questionnaires or observations. This helps us build a comprehensive picture of your child across different settings.

We require at least one parent/guardian at all stages. However, we strongly recommend both parents attend the pre-assessment and feedback sessions to ensure a shared understanding.

Explain that they'll be doing some fun, low-pressure tasks or playing with someone who wants to understand how they think. Ensure they are rested and try to keep the experience low-anxiety.

We rely on parent and teacher input plus direct clinic observation. In some cases, additional observation in natural settings may be considered if needed.

No. While we accept GP referrals, they are not required. You can self-refer by booking a pre-assessment consultation on our website.

Yes. We provide flexible payment options, including spreading payments across stages. We also offer Klarna to split payments over three months.

Dublin: Rathfarnham
Cork: Blackpool

Both locations offer easy access by car and public transport, with on-site or nearby parking available.

• Speed: No long public waitlists (pre-assessments within a week).
• Access: Direct access to highly trained specialists.
• Efficiency: Full assessments typically complete in 8–10 weeks.

There is no single sign, but you might notice differences in:

• Communication: Avoiding eye contact, or intense eye contact.
• Interaction: Preferring solitary play, or finding social cues hard to read.
• Interests: Very focused passions or specific interests.
• Sensory: Seeking or avoiding certain noises, textures, or lights.

Early identification helps your child grow up understanding that their differences are valid. It allows you to:

• Frame their world in a strengths-focused light.
• Protect their self-esteem.
• Access supports before challenges become overwhelming.

Yes. Characteristics can overlap with ADHD, anxiety, and language disorders. That is why our multi-disciplinary approach is essential for an accurate profile.

You will still receive a full report outlining their profile. We will provide recommendations for other potential needs, supports, or referral pathways if clinically indicated.

Yes. The process clarifies how your child learns, senses, thinks, and interacts. This information is useful for parenting and education regardless of the final diagnosis.

Neuroaffirmative practice means we celebrate differences.

We believe:

• No way of experiencing the world is "better" or "worse" than another.
• Autism isn't something to "fix" — it's part of who you are.
• Our job is to support your challenges while building on your natural strengths.

No. Being neuroaffirmative means we validate your child's experience. We won't try to make them "appear less autistic," but we will fight for the supports they need to thrive.

Traditional social skills training often teaches autistic children to "mask" (hide their true selves), which damages self-esteem.

Instead, we support authentic communication—helping your child connect with others in a way that feels safe and natural to them.

A Chartered Clinical Psychologist specialising in autism leads your assessment. They may be paired with another specialist if necessary.

Fully Online.
Our adult assessments are conducted entirely via secure video conferencing. This allows you to complete the process from the comfort and privacy of your own home, without the need to travel.

Our adult assessment service is for individuals aged 18 and over.

We take a holistic view. We integrate any existing diagnoses into your evaluation, such as:

• Anxiety or Depression
• ADHD
• Mood conditions

Your report will reflect how these interact with your autistic traits.

We use internationally recognised frameworks (DSM-5) and validated clinical instruments, combined with:

• Detailed interviews
• Self-report measures
• Developmental history
• Clinical observation via video

No long waitlists.
We can usually schedule your initial consultation within one week. We aim to complete the full adult assessment process within 4-6 weeks.

Absolutely. Our philosophy is neuroaffirmative. We acknowledge the challenges of being autistic in a non-autistic world, but we also identify your:

• Cognitive and social strengths
• Special interests
• Preferred ways of interacting

Yes. All our psychologists are professionally qualified and registered (e.g., with the PSI). Your diagnosis is recognised under Irish systems for accessing support.

Yes. After your assessment, you'll receive a detailed report. You can request supporting letters to present to employers, universities, or services to request reasonable accommodations.

Often yes, depending on your insurer. We supply all required documentation (PSI numbers, receipts, clinical codes) to support your claim.

Potentially yes. Many clients claim ~20% back on health-related expenses from Revenue. We provide full invoices and registration numbers to support your claim.

You'll receive a detailed feedback session and a full written report. The report serves as a roadmap, including recommendations for:

• Therapy or coaching
• Workplace accommodations
• Self-management strategies

Yes, in some cases.
If autism substantially restricts your ability to work, you may qualify for Disability Allowance (approx €220/week).

Important to know:

• Support acts as a resource to help you thrive, not a judgement of ability.
• We can advise on the medical documentation required.

For eligibility criteria, visit Citizens Information.

Our Clinical Director, Dr Sam Gower (Clinical Psychologist, 17+ years exp), supervises all adult assessments. All staff are registered with professional bodies and undergo regular independent audits.

You begin with a Pre-assessment Consultation (approx 60 mins) via video call. This is an initial discussion of your history and concerns to decide if a full assessment is right for you.

From first contact to delivery of the report, the process typically takes 4 to 6 weeks.

• Pre-assessment: Video consultation
• Paperwork: Questionnaires & background history
• Assessment: Interviews & observational tasks (Video)
• Result: Feedback session & report delivery
• Support: Recommendations & next steps

Usually 4 sessions spread over several weeks. You will also complete clinical questionnaires separately between these sessions.

Recommended. If you have prior psychological, neurological, or developmental reports, please provide them. This helps inform your evaluation and avoids redundant testing.

No. You can self-refer. We begin with a pre-assessment consultation.

Yes. We combine structured interviews, observation (via video), and valid questionnaires to get a comprehensive view.

Tip: If you want to use fidgets, stim, or have a pet nearby during the video call, please do!

Yes. You may invite a trusted person (partner, family, friend) to join parts of sessions or to provide input ("collateral information"), if you prefer.

Please refer to our pricing page for current adult assessment fees.

Yes. Flexible payment options are available, including multi-installment plans or Klarna.

Final written reports are typically delivered within a few days to 2 weeks after the feedback session.

Online. You can participate from home or any private, quiet location.

We maintain strict confidentiality. Sessions are encrypted, and data is stored securely in compliance with GDPR and data protection laws.

Yes. All our clinical staff are fully qualified and registered. We are an approved HSE Service Provider and our reports are recognised by Irish systems.

Just a stable internet connection, a computer or tablet with a camera/microphone, and a quiet space.

If you suspect you are autistic or neurodivergent, this process is for you.

Common reasons people seek assessment:

• To make sense of past experiences.
• To deepen self-understanding.
• To access reasonable accommodations at work.

Yes. Many adults "mask" their traits. Also, our understanding of autism has evolved; we no longer see it as a "deficit" but as a different way of experiencing the world. Our assessment is designed to identify these patterns in adults.

You will still receive a full report outlining your cognitive, behavioral, and emotional profile, along with suggestions for other supports if relevant.

Often yes. Many clients say the process offers pathways to self-understanding, acceptance, and reframing past experiences in a more compassionate light.

Yes. There is a strong genetic component. Many adults discover family members with similar traits once they start the assessment process.

Occupational Therapy helps individuals participate fully in daily life. For autistic clients, we focus on:

• Self-care: Eating, sleeping, dressing
• Sensory Regulation: Understanding how you process sound, touch, and movement
• Motor Skills: Coordination for play or school tasks

Services are delivered by CORU registered, garda-vetted Occupational Therapists with specialist training in autism and sensory integration.

1. Intake: Interview to understand your goals and routines.
2. Play-based Sessions: In-person interaction and observation.
3. Support Plan: Developing strategies for home and school.

Mostly In-Person.
Hands-on assessments, sensory work, and play-based sessions are best done at our clinics (Dublin or Cork).

Note: Some parent coaching or strategy planning can be done online.

Primarily for children, but adults can also avail of the service. Please contact us directly by phone to discuss adult OT needs.

• Sensory Processing: Managing over- or under-sensitivity to noise/touch
• Motor Skills: Handwriting, drawing, coordination
• Executive Function: Planning, organising, and starting tasks
• Daily Living: Dressing, grooming, eating
• Energy: Managing fatigue and burnout

It varies for everyone, but many families see noticeable improvements in specific areas (like routine or sensory regulation) within 6–12 weeks of consistent support.

No. Our OT team collaborates with psychologists and SLTs to ensure strategies are consistent. We can also share findings with your GP.

You can request an OT referral once your assessment is underway or completed. We'll then schedule an intake evaluation to set goals.

It depends on your goals. Some clients need a short course (4-8 sessions), while others benefit from ongoing therapy. Your therapist will advise you.

Standard OT sessions last 45 to 60 minutes.

Sometimes. Remote sessions are good for strategy coaching and consultation. However, physical tasks and direct intervention usually require in-person visits.

Bring any relevant reports (if not from AutismCare) and videos/photos of daily routines. If you use assistive devices (writing aids, etc.), please bring those too.

Often yes, depending on your plan. We provide invoices and clinical codes to support your claim.

Yes. Flexible payment options are available.

Yes. Many clients claim ~20% back as a medical expense from Revenue.

That is fine (and often encouraged). We will coordinate schedules to ensure intervention plans complement each other.

Speech and Language Therapy isn't just about talking. We help your child find the communication method that feels most natural to them.

We support:

• Spoken language
• Gestures and sign language (Lámh)
• Visuals and picture boards
• Communication apps (AAC)

Our goal is to give your child the tools to express themselves confidently.

All sessions are delivered by CORU-registered Speech and Language Therapists with specialist training in autism and social communication.

• Understanding and using spoken language
• Expressing thoughts and needs clearly
• Speech clarity and articulation
• Alternative Communication (AAC apps, PECS)
• Feeding and swallowing difficulties (if relevant)
• Social confidence and self-advocacy

Both.
In-person sessions are available at our clinics (Dublin/Cork) for hands-on or play-based work. Some sessions (like social communication) can be done effectively online.

We support children, adolescents, and adults. Therapy is tailored to the individual's life stage (home, school, or workplace).

Yes. We don't try to "teach the right way" to communicate. We build on your existing strengths to create a robust way for you to self-advocate and self-express.

Not necessarily—and that's okay.
While many children do develop spoken language, speech is not the only way to communicate.

We focus on whatever method allows your child to:

• Express their wants and needs
• Connect socially with others
• Reduce frustration

We support spoken language, but we don't force it if another method works better for your child.

No. Research shows that using visuals or apps does not prevent speech development.

In fact, many children use both ("multimodal communication"). Visuals can often act as a bridge to speech by helping children understand language structures without the pressure to perform verbally.

Not at all. You are supporting communication.

By giving your child a way to express themselves right now (via visuals or apps), you are:

• Reducing their frustration
• Building their confidence
• Teaching them that their voice matters

Supporting the method that works best for your child is the most effective way to help them grow.

Yes. AutismCare is an approved HSE service provider. Our reports are recognised by the Department of Education.

Absolutely. SLT reports can inform Student Support Plans, IEPs, and workplace accommodations (e.g., modified communication supports).

Often yes. We provide all necessary documentation (CORU numbers, receipts) to support your claim.

Yes. Many clients can claim up to 20% of the cost back from Revenue.

You can self-refer directly, or your clinician may recommend it after assessment. We start with an initial consultation to understand your goals.

• Initial Consultation: Baseline assessment
• Therapy Plan: Tailored to your goals (Language, AAC, speech clarity)
• Review: Progress updates and home practice support

Typical sessions last 45 to 60 minutes. Shorter sessions may be arranged for younger children.

It varies. Some clients attend short blocks (6–10 sessions), while others benefit from longer-term therapy.

Yes. Collaboration is key. We guide parents on how to support communication at home.

No. You can self-refer directly on our site.

Clinics in Rathfarnham (Dublin) and Blackpool (Cork). Online options available where appropriate.

Yes. Flexible options and Klarna are available.

Yes. Our SLTs collaborate with psychologists and OTs to ensure goals complement each other.

Absolutely! We specialise in supporting non-speaking and semi-speaking people.

We use a variety of AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) tools, including:

• Lámh (Sign language)
• Vocabulary boards
• High-tech apps like TD Snap and Grid

Yes. You receive detailed initial reports and regular progress updates to support school or healthcare planning.

Yes. All SLTs are CORU-registered, Garda vetted, and hold postgraduate qualifications in autism.

SLT is suitable for anyone who:

• Has difficulty expressing wants or needs.
• Finds it hard to understand spoken language.
• Wants to try alternative communication (AAC).
• Experiences pronunciation differences.
• Has feeding or swallowing difficulties.

Early intervention helps in three key ways:

1. Foundation Building: Sets up supports (like visual schedules) your child can use for life.
2. Parent Understanding: You learn your child's natural communication style early.
3. Wellbeing: Your child learns their "voice" matters, building confidence and self-advocacy.

Yes. Many adults seek SLT for clearer communication at work, better self-advocacy, and strategies for managing social demands.

Every individual's pace differs. Our therapists adjust methods based on your engagement, comfort, and learning style.