Waterford FAQs
Will I receive documentation to help with support at work or in college?
Yes. Following your assessment, you will receive a comprehensive, professionally prepared report from your designated psychologist. This report is written with care and precision and can be used to help request reasonable accommodations, access learning supports, or secure workplace adjustments that reflect your needs and strengths as a neurodivergent individual.
In addition to the report, we are happy to provide supporting letters - free of charge - should you require them for employers, education providers, or support services.
At AutismCare, we are committed to empowering individuals to advocate for themselves in educational and professional settings, with documentation that is clear, respectful, and fully aligned with best practice and neuroaffirmative values.
Where are AutismCare assessments carried out?
At AutismCare, we offer flexible assessment options designed to meet the needs of both individuals and families in a way that is accessible and supportive.
Adult Autism assessments are completed entirely online, allowing individuals to engage in the process from a familiar and comfortable environment.
Child Autism assessments are conducted using a hybrid model:
- Parent and caregiver interviews are held online, offering flexibility and ease of access.
- The child's in-person assessment takes place at our welcoming clinic in Rathfarnham, County Dublin, where we create a calm, supportive space that respects each child's sensory and communication needs.
This structure allows us to provide high-quality, neuroaffirmative assessments while reducing unnecessary travel and ensuring the process is guided by comfort, consent, and connection.
Where can I ask more questions or get additional information?
If you have any further questions or would like more information about our services, you're very welcome to get in touch with us directly.
You can reach us by email at info@autismcare.ie and a member of our team will be happy to support you. Whether you're seeking clarity about the assessment process, wondering about next steps, or simply want to talk things through - we're here to help.
Where can I get a free autism assessment?
In Ireland, free Autism assessments are available through the public health system, primarily via the HSE. For children, this is typically accessed through Children's Disability Network Teams (CDNT) or through the Assessment of Need (AON) process under the Disability Act 2005. For adults, public assessments may be available through the HSE's mental health services or community-based pathways, though access can vary by region.
While these services are provided free of charge, waiting lists for public assessments are often lengthy, and many individuals and families experience significant delays in accessing assessment, identification, and support.
For those who need or prefer a faster, more personalised process, AutismCare offers private assessments that are completed within weeks, led by experienced psychologists, and fully recognised by the HSE, GPs, schools, and employers. Tax relief at the standard rate of 20% is also available on private assessment costs.
If you'd like guidance on which option might suit your circumstances, our team is happy to talk things through with you.
What am I entitled to with an autistic child?
Parents and caregivers of Autistic children in Ireland may be entitled to a range of supports across health, education, and social welfare systems. The exact entitlements depend on your child's individual needs, age, and circumstances, but commonly available supports include:
- Domiciliary Care Allowance: A monthly payment from the Department of Social Protection for children under 16 with a severe disability requiring care substantially above what is typical.
- Carer's Allowance or Carer's Benefit: Available to those providing full-time care to a child with significant additional needs.
- Incapacitated Child Tax Credit: A tax credit available through Revenue for parents of a child with a permanent disability.
- Educational supports: Including access to Special Education Teachers (SET), Special Needs Assistants (SNA), or specialised school placements through the National Council for Special Education (NCSE).
- HSE supports: Such as access to Children's Disability Network Teams (CDNT), occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, and psychology services.
- Medical Card or GP Visit Card: May be available based on the child's needs and family income.
For up-to-date eligibility criteria and detailed guidance, the Citizens Information website is a helpful resource: citizensinformation.ie.
At AutismCare, we provide professionally prepared reports and supporting letters that can help families access these entitlements with greater clarity and confidence.
What makes a child more likely to have autism?
Autism is a natural and lifelong neurodevelopmental difference, and current research suggests that being Autistic is largely shaped by genetic and biological factors. Autism is not caused by parenting style, vaccines, diet, or environmental factors such as screen time.
Research indicates that children are more likely to be Autistic if there is a family history of Autism or other forms of neurodivergence, as Autistic traits often run in families. Many parents and caregivers come to recognise their own neurodivergent identity through their child's assessment journey.
Other factors associated in research include certain genetic conditions and prenatal influences, though Autism in itself is not an illness or a result of something "going wrong." It is simply one of many natural variations in how human brains develop and process the world.
At AutismCare, our focus is not on identifying "causes," but on understanding, supporting, and affirming each child's unique profile, identity, and needs. Every Autistic child deserves to be met with respect, curiosity, and care.
How is payment for the assessment process structured?
At AutismCare, we aim to make the payment process as transparent and manageable as possible for families and individuals.
The initial pre-assessment payment is taken at the time of booking your pre-assessment consultation.
If you choose to proceed with a full assessment, the remaining payments are then made in two further stages, prior to your main assessment session and before your feedback and report session with your psychologist.
We also offer flexible payment plans to support accessibility. If you have any questions about payment options or would like to discuss a plan that works for you, our team is here to help.
