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. Any reason why you'd prefer to go NHS route despite experiencing the private road?