Autism through Health and Social Care
Northern Ireland public autism pathways are delivered through Health and Social Care Trusts. Trust services publish their own referral and assessment arrangements. Adult pathways commonly involve referral from a GP or healthcare professional, developmental history, observation and clinical judgement.
Because Trust processes differ, a private provider should not claim that one report is automatically accepted everywhere.
The ADHD service picture
The Northern Ireland Department of Health published an ADHD Needs Assessment in February 2026 covering adults and children. It is intended to inform options for potential commissioned provision and describes current variation and capacity challenges.
England-specific Right to Choose language does not apply to Northern Ireland. A private assessment is separate from HSC commissioning and does not guarantee public prescribing.
What a private assessment includes
ADHD assessment should consider development, symptoms, impairment, context, co-occurring needs and alternative explanations. Autism assessment should consider lifelong developmental patterns, communication, social interaction, sensory experience, routines, interests and functional impact.
Questionnaires can support assessment but should not be treated as diagnosis on their own.
Work and education
Northern Ireland has a different disability discrimination framework from Great Britain. The Equality Act 2010 does not operate across Northern Ireland in the same way it does in England, Scotland and Wales.
Clinical recommendations can describe functional needs and possible adjustments, but legal obligations depend on Northern Ireland law and the individual setting.
Therapy
General psychological therapy is £110 per session. Neurodevelopmental therapy is also £110 per session.
Appointment arrangements depend on clinical need and suitability.
Common questions in Northern Ireland
Does NHS England Right to Choose apply in Northern Ireland?
No. Northern Ireland uses Health and Social Care structures and the England-specific Right to Choose pathway does not apply.
How do adults access public autism assessment?
Public routes vary by HSC Trust. Trust information commonly advises speaking with a GP or healthcare professional who can refer to the relevant service.
Does a private ADHD diagnosis guarantee HSC prescribing?
No. Prescribing is a separate medical decision and public ADHD provision varies.
Primary public sources
Public pathways can change. These official sources were checked for this page.