Autism (or Autism Spectrum Disorder, ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects communication, social interaction, and behaviour. Those with autism may have difficulty with verbal communication (and nonverbal, such as body language or eye contact), exhibit repetitive behaviours, have narrow and niche interests, and struggle with sensory sensitivities such as disliking certain sounds or only tolerating the tastes or textures of particular foods. As the formal name suggests, autism is a spectrum disorder, meaning that symptoms and severity can vary widely among different people with the condition. Early diagnosis and intervention can greatly improve the quality of life if you have autism, but is not always possible, and later in life diagnosis for accessing proper support as an adult is better than none at all.

Choosing the right autism specialist to support you is a key step towards your mental wellness journey. We recommend reviewing the profiles of our professionals, which include their qualifications, areas of expertise, and personal approach to care. Consider factors such as their experience working with adults on the autism spectrum, their familiarity with current research and therapies, their communication style, and their approach to individual treatment plans. It's also helpful to look at the recommendations on practitioner profiles, and to schedule initial consultations to assess their compatibility with your needs and goals. Trust your instincts to find a specialist who respects your autonomy while still providing provides a supportive and understanding environment for your very personal and unique journey with autism.

At Augmentive, we understand the importance of flexibility in accessing mental health support. That's why our curated network of autism specialists offers a wide range of options and price points depending on your budget and needs. However, PLEASE NOTE that our platform is NOT equipped to handle immediate crises: if you are in crisis or think you may harm yourself or others, please contact emergency services immediately or go to your nearest A&E department. For urgent support, you can also reach out to helplines such as Samaritans (116 123) available 24/7, or contact your GP for guidance.