Autism
Private autism assessment for adults in Cornwall — delivered by a Consultant Psychiatrist and a doctoral-level Educational Psychologist working in genuine clinical collaboration. Face-to-face in Hayle and online across the South West.
How we help
At Porthia Clinic, we offer specialist autism assessments for adults through a dual-discipline model that is rarely available in a single private service. Clinicians can perform independent assessments, but at Porthia Clinic we also offer a unique collaborative approach. Dr. Eleanor Ley, our Educational Psychologist, brings expertise in neurodevelopmental evaluation, cognitive profiling, and autism-specific assessment tools. Working in close collaboration with Dr. Ley, Dr. Claudia Murton, Consultant Psychiatrist, contributes the psychiatric dimension of the assessment, ensuring that co-occurring mental health conditions, clinical complexities, and any medication considerations are properly identified and addressed.
The report and personalised support plan can be developed collaboratively by clinicians, drawing on their combined expertise to give you a thorough, accurate, and genuinely useful clinical picture. This level of integrated psychiatric and psychological input is not commonly available in private autism services in Cornwall or the wider South West — and we believe it makes a meaningful difference to the quality and depth of what our patients receive.
Assessments are delivered face-to-face at our clinic in Hayle, Cornwall. Online or partly online assessment is also available for those who need it.
Our clinicians are trained in the internationally recognised tools:
- ADOS (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule)
- ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised)
Our assessments are based on these gold-standard assessment methods to ensure we deliver a comprehensive assessment.
Post-Diagnostic Support — Working With Dr. Eleanor Ley
A diagnosis is only the beginning. Understanding what it means for your daily life, your relationships, and your work or studies takes time — and expert guidance. Dr. Eleanor Ley, our Educational Psychologist, offers post-diagnostic support for adults aged 18 and over who have received an autism diagnosis — whether through Porthia or another recognised provider. Her work is particularly relevant to those in further or higher education, where neurodiversity can affect learning, social experience, and wellbeing in specific ways. These are optional additional services and may include: making sense of your diagnosis, developing practical strategies, executive functioning coaching, sensory needs guidance, and supporting applications for reasonable adjustments or DSA funding
What is the process
Assessment
Our detailed assessment process includes:In-depth clinical interview of developmental history Understanding of current experiences and challenges. Assessment of communication and social interaction styles. Exploration of sensory experiences. Analysis of cognitive patterns and interests. Consideration of co-occurring conditions. Clear explanation of findings. You will receive a detailed report at the end of your assessment which will also be sent to your GP.
Treatment Plan
Our Psychologist and Psychiatrist develop a diagnostic formulation that reflects both the psychological and psychiatric picture. Where autism is confirmed, the report will describe your individual profile — your strengths, the challenges you experience, and the specific ways in which autism presents for you.We then work collaboratively with you to develop a personalised support plan that builds on your strengths and addresses any challenges you'd like help with. Every plan is unique, as we recognise that each autistic person's needs and goals are different.We focus on practical solutions that help you thrive while embracing your authentic self, rather than trying to change who you are.You will receive a detailed written report and personalised support plan, clearly explaining our findings and setting out practical next steps. You can use your report to discuss your needs with your employer, university, or other relevant services and support organisations. Your GP receives a copy.
Ongoing Support
A diagnosis is the beginning, not the end. Understanding what it means for your daily life, your relationships, and your work or studies takes time — and the right support. Dr. Eleanor Ley offers post-diagnostic support for adults aged 18 and over who have received an autism diagnosis, whether through Porthia or another recognised provider. Her work is particularly relevant to those in further or higher education, where neurodiversity can affect learning, social experience, and wellbeing in specific ways — and where accessing the right adjustments and funding can make a significant practical difference. This specialist provision is significantly underserved across Cornwall and the South West. For many adults, finding an experienced, education-focused psychologist in their own region who understands the FE and HE landscape is genuinely difficult. At Porthia, we are committed to changing that.
How to book
These can be online but we recommend face to face. For general enquiries or to discuss specific requirements and booking, please complete our contact form and our team will respond promptly.
Fees & Payments
£1190 – There is an initial assessment of up to 90 minutes and one treatment planning and discussion session of up to 30 minutes included in this. Prior to the assessment, up to 60 minutes is spent reviewing the developmental information required from relatives or close early-life contacts. This is included in the initial assessment cost.
Post-diagnostic follow-up with Dr. Ley: £150 for 50 minutes
Additional follow-up appointments if a Psychiatrist is required: £190 for up to 30 minutes
Payments are only taken using our secure payment option when you book online.
Our cancellation policy requires at least 7 days notice to avoid a fee. Cancellations made within 2 working days will not be refunded. For more information please read our Terms and Conditions. Please contact us promptly to reschedule or cancel.
Important Information
- Initial assessment appointments will last up to 90 minutes, follow-up appointments last up to 30 minutes. The fee covers both of these appointments and the pre assessment preparation time.
- Family, relatives or early life contacts will be required to provide developmental information.
- Additional follow-up appointments are chargeable as detailed.
- Appointments are delivered face-to-face.
- Treatment plans are provided as part of the fee electronically on our patient portal.
- Porthia Clinic does not provide wrap-around care outside of booked appointments. Post-consultation queries (e.g., regarding treatment plans or prescription dosage) and unplanned third-party (e.g. family or other healthcare providers) correspondence require chargeable follow-up appointments, or chargeable time.
Referral Information
Referral Process
To refer a patient, simply contact our clinic with the
individual’s details and relevant medical information. Our team will follow up to coordinate an appointment and ensure a smooth transition of care.
General Practitioners
General Practitioners (GPs) are medical doctors who provide primary healthcare, diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions. They offer preventive care, manage chronic illnesses, and refer patients to specialists when necessary. GPs are often the first point of contact for health concerns.
We always seek to gain information and share information with your GP.
Insurance Companies
Insurance companies provide coverage for medical expenses, offering health plans that help reduce the cost of treatments, medications, and hospital visits. They work by pooling risk and collecting premiums from policyholders to cover various healthcare services.
We are currently not affiliated with insurance companies.