Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition that a person is born with, and it often runs in families. Current estimates suggest around 1% of the population is autistic — roughly 700,000 people in the UK — meaning that if you are autistic, the underlying traits have been present since early childhood, even if they weren't recognised or understood at the time.
As with ADHD, autism is not caused by parenting style, diet, or upbringing. Brain-imaging research has shown that the brains of autistic individuals show measurable differences in activity and structure compared to non-autistic brains, pointing to a genuine biological basis for the condition. It also has a strong hereditary and genetic component, often co-occurring with ADHD and related conditions. Hundreds of genes have been linked to autism in research studies, though how each contributes — and whether it will be passed on to children — cannot currently be predicted with precision.
No two autistic people are alike, and symptoms vary enormously from one individual to the next. Broadly, traits are seen across several areas of functioning:
Communication differences in verbal or non-verbal communication style
Social interaction differences in how social situations and relationships are navigated
Behaviours and routines a preference for structure, repetition, or predictability
Focused interests deep, sustained interest in specific topics or activities
Sensory sensitivities heightened or reduced sensitivity to sound, light, touch, or other sensory input
Some traits remain consistent throughout life, while others can be masked — many autistic people, particularly women and those diagnosed later in life, learn to consciously mimic social behaviours such as eye contact or expressions of empathy. Popular portrayals of autism in film and media have created a narrow, often inaccurate stereotype; in reality, autistic people are just as varied as the non-autistic population, and many report experiencing others' emotions intensely rather than lacking empathy — sometimes withdrawing socially as a way of managing that intensity. While presentation can look somewhat different between men and women, the underlying condition does not differ in any fundamental way.
There is no blood test or brain scan that can reliably diagnose autism on its own. Diagnosis instead relies on a detailed clinical history — exploring the nature, severity, and duration of traits over a person's lifetime. A key marker is that traits must have been present from early life; difficulties that appear suddenly in adulthood with no earlier history are unlikely to be autism.
Dr Lakshmanan's assessments follow recognised, standardised diagnostic approaches, which may include structured tools such as the RAADS-R (Ritvo Autism Asperger Diagnostic Scale) to systematically capture traits across different areas of daily functioning. These tools are extensively validated through research and, when interpreted by an experienced specialist alongside a full clinical history, provide a high degree of diagnostic confidence.
The assessment centres on an in-depth clinical interview exploring the areas of functioning you're most concerned about, combined with the results of standardised diagnostic tools. Findings are then discussed openly with you, with space to ask questions and seek clarification on anything that arises — whether or not a diagnosis of ASD is ultimately reached.
Following the assessment, you'll receive a comprehensive report that includes:
It's important to know going in that a private assessment does not guarantee a diagnosis of autism — the outcome reflects a genuine, individualised clinical judgement. Either way, the process itself often brings valuable clarity and useful recommendations for supporting your wellbeing.
Autism itself isn't an illness to be cured — it reflects a different way the brain is wired, bringing its own strengths alongside its challenges, rather than a single defect with one clear fix. The neuroscience behind autism is complex, involving multiple brain regions and systems rather than one isolated cause. Interestingly, some research suggests certain autistic individuals process visual information far more intensively than neurotypical individuals, while showing comparatively less intensive auditory processing — though this varies from person to person and isn't a universal finding.
Some view a formal autism diagnosis as an unnecessary label — but for many people, a thorough assessment brings real, practical value:
Assessments are offered for individuals across all age groups, from children through to adults seeking a first diagnosis later in life.
Children showing differences in social communication, behaviour, or sensory sensitivities
Adults who suspect they may be autistic and are seeking a formal diagnostic assessment
Families looking for guidance following a new diagnosis
Individuals who have found previous assessments incomplete or unclear
If you'd like to learn more or arrange an assessment, get in touch to schedule a confidential consultation.
