Published on 12, July, 2020
Hi
I spoke to a GP last week through my work health cover and obtained a referral letter to speak to a psychiatrist. Today I spoke to a case worker and will have a conversation with a mental health specialist on Sunday, which will initially be a Q&A session before confirming next steps. The organisation handling this is called CBT Clinics, although looking at their website they do more than just CBT (it may just be a name).
Can others share their experience of beginning the autism diagnosis process as an adult? Is it normal to speak to a mental health professional and do a verbal questionnaire before confirming which route to take? Has anybody else done this privately (such as through a private health cover) as I have? Have you used or heard of CBT Clinics? Sorry, lots of questions. My priority is to obtain a diagnosis.
Hi Bennsky,
Yes I have followed this route, it sounds typical. The early stages are for trained staff to assess whether you have a possible ASD or other mental health issue. They are important as it will determine which pathway is needed for you. Personally, I would always stay with NHS care for lots of reasons, even if it does seem to take forever perhaps in your area it may not be a long wait, here in Cambridgeshire it's years.
Hi Oscie,
I was wondering for a long time whether I should try to get a diagnosis.
My initial incentive was wanting to participate in group activities offered by "Number 6" which is an autism service centre in Edinburgh. After contacting them, they informed me that it was only possible to come to them after having been formally diagnosed.
I eventually decided against it for the following reason. Following every job interview in my profession, you have to fill out a section and disclose every disability/disease that you have as well as whether you are currently (or have been in the last six months) under treatment by your GP and any specifics regarding the reason for that.
My fear is that having a formal diagnosis will oblige me to disclose being on the spectrum and that it could put me in a disadvantage when competing for a position.
What are your thoughts on that?
You do not need to disclose your 'disability' unless your employer would need to make material changes to accommodate your condition. I never intend to formally inform my current or future employers in the event of a diagnosis.