Anne Marie was great she listened didn't judge me or think I was really weird, easy to talk to and supported me through the entire assessment even when i didnt understanda question she would use examples and not make me feel bad , I would highly recommend others to be assessed by Anne Marie.
I'm so glad I went with Anne-Marie, she was great taking me through the process and taking the time to explain everything clearly. I generally get quite nervous and my mind can go blank under pressure but at no point did I feel this way during any of our calls, she put me at ease. From the initial free consultation through to the full assessment was only a few weeks and a very positive experience
About ten years ago I began reading more about autism in adults and realised how much it resonated with me. I had always known I experienced the world differently, but my assessment with Anne Marie was not about justifying that — it was about finally understanding it.
The process helped me recognise how much of my adult life had been spent masking and camouflaging around family, work colleagues and partners, and how exhausting that had become by almost 40 years old.
Anne Marie made me feel comfortable and understood throughout. I can sometimes come across as abrupt or awkward socially, but I never felt judged or misunderstood. She communicated the process, assessment and feedback clearly, and I felt genuinely safe in her hands.
I’m very grateful for the clarity and understanding this experience gave me and would highly recommend Connect to Autism.
S
Social Worker, 38, Glasgow
Verified ·21st May 2026
About ten years ago I read an article regarding the under diagnosis of autism in older females. The article explained the female presentation was significantly different than in males and that many females had gone under the radar. This resonated with me as I have an older male sibling with Autism and I was assessed myself in the late sixties, not meeting the criteria back then. I decided to approach Connect to Autism and Anne Marie as she has many years of experience in this field with a special focus on older undiagnosed women with Autism. The process was very straight forward and I feel value for money, given, Anne Marie's expertise and experience. She was very thorough and helpful. I felt in safe hands. She produced a very comprehensive report with excellent advice. I only wish I had found out earlier in my life. Thank you again Anne Marie for your help.
6
60-Year-Old Female, Scotland
Imported ·15th April 2026
I found Anne very helpful and honest throughout the process. The 30 minute free discussion, and the childhood report and analysis, give clients who are not sure at the beginning, reassurance, to commit to a full assessment before paying full amount at once. Throughout the process Anne was clear and understanding, and showed her extensive experience of Autism. At the end of the process you are given a clear short statement of diagnosis if need for medical or social reasons, together with a more detailed report. I had used her services previously for my daughter, by using phone and video call, it help overcome difficulties travelling to a new venue.
6
64-Year-Old Retired Male Nurse
Imported ·15th April 2026
I highly recommend Anne Marie if you are looking for an ASD assessment, she was very helpful and put me at ease during the whole process. No surprises, everything i was hoping for. thanks again.
4
46-Year-Old Male, Aberdeen
Imported ·15th April 2026
I came to Anne Marie as someone who had spent a long time wondering whether I might be autistic but wasn't sure anyone would take me seriously. I also had a lot of questions and uncertainties of my own. As a female coming to this process late in life having recognised myself in my children's diagnoses, I had become extremely adept at masking. Anne Marie's extensive knowledge with how autism presents in high-masking women made all the difference. She understood that what things look like on the surface and what is actually happening underneath can be very different, and she had the clinical experience to consider both of those things at once. Her explanations, particularly around monoprocessing and the way autistic people manage cognitive capacity in social situations, helped me understand myself. Anne Marie was extremely generous with her time throughout the process, well beyond what was required, and she was willing to work through the report with me carefully to ensure it accurately reflected my presentation. I came away with a greater understanding of my life experiences and things that had always felt confusing. I would recommend Anne Marie to anyone navigating the same questions.
4
43-Year-Old Female Researcher, Scotland
Imported ·15th March 2026
My wife (in our early 30s) recieved a diagnosis from Connect to Autism earlier this week, and I can only speak incredibly highly of Anne Marie Gallagher. From the get go she gave us insightful information that made us trust her expertise, and as soon as my wife spoke to her she was put completely at her ease. Considering how stressful this process is, it's such a relief to be made to feel comfortable.
Anne Marie has a really excellent progressive payment system - the first part of the diagnosis is a fifth of the total cost, and if from the self reporting forms she sees no real evidence to make an autism diagnosis she will tell you, so you don't waste a huge amount of money before completely committing.
The speed of the diagnosis was also amazing - we were able to get this all done within three weeks of making the first call. Being able to do it all online also massively helped. My wife struggles with agoraphobia so being safely at home allowed her to focus completely on ensuring she could give the best information possible to Anne Marie.
The calls are structured in such a way that you get the info you really need up top, and then you go into detail about why that conclusion has been reached - so you don't spend ages guessing as you're going through a long and hard call. Anne Marie then also took some extra time after the diagnosis to speak to my partner about ADHD how it differed from Autism, despite symptoms being shared between them.
I really can't speak highly enough for this service, and for Anne Marie personally. Just really kind, very professional, happy to give her time to ensure that you really truly understand the diagnosis and the reasons that it's given, and honestly really reasonably priced considering how much other services I've seen out there can cost! If you think you or someone you love may have autism and are considering getting a private diagnosis in the UK, drop her a line and I guarantee you won't regret it.
I first considered the possibility of Autism in 2023. I approached my GP and was told that because I was married and had a job I couldn't be autistic. Fast forward 2 years, a lot of anxiety and a long absence from work, I decided to pursue a private assessment to try and find some answers. I researched many providers and Connect to Autism immediately stood out to me. Anne Maries experience speaks for itself in my opinion. From initial contact with Anne Marie to receiving a diagnosis and a detailed report only took a few weeks. The process was easy and the fee was very reasonable. Anne Marie made me feel at ease throughout the whole process and provided detailed insights into the difficulties I have been facing my whole life. I cannot thank Anne Marie and her team enough for giving me the answers I didn't know I was looking for. I now have a positive direction of travel with an understanding that I am not lazy or broken. I'm just different, and that's okay. It was a fantastic service from beginning to end and my only regret is that I didn't do it sooner!
4
41-Year-Old Male, Scotland
Imported ·15th October 2025
My Assessment with Anne Marie was comfortable and I felt at ease throughout its duration. I learned a lot about myself and having autism. The diagnosis has been beneficial to me as it has made me feel more comfortable within myself and has also allowed me to open up to my employers about my condition and be able to get support from them. I highly recommend Anne Marie to those wishing to get a diagnosis for Autism. It was a fantastic service from beginning to end and my only regret is that I didn't do it sooner!
3
31-Year-Old Male, Edinburgh
Imported ·15th October 2025
Anne Marie is fantastic. She made the whole diagnostic process feel straightforward and easy to navigate. I really appreciated how she explained everything, offering insight and making sure I was comfortable at every stage. A truly warm and supportive service.
3
39-Year-Old Father, Aberdeen
Imported ·15th October 2025
I was diagnosed with autism at 42 years old. After looking at various different assessment services, I came across Connect to Autism. The reviews were great and the costs were very reasonable. From the first email interaction with Anne Marie I was made to feel so at ease, and in control of the whole process. Anne Marie is very knowledgeable and immediately gave me insight into my life that I'd never seen before. After part 1 of the process, Anne Marie confirmed it would be beneficial to go on to part 2, but there was no pressure to do this. It was very much a personal decision. Anne Marie was able then to fit me in quickly for my 2nd appointment and had my diagnosis the same day and my full report by the end of the week. My report is like reading about me from a completely different perspective. All the pieces are beginning to fall into place and make sense. I wish I had contacted Connect to Autism sooner. Thank you!!
Working with Anne Marie was reassuring and comfortable from the very beginning. She talked me through every step of the process and made sure I fully understood the diagnostic criteria. The whole experience was fast and I received my report soon after my diagnosis. The report was detailed and helped me feel confident in vocalising my needs to others - it helped me to understand myself for the first time in my life. She was also very reasonably priced in comparison with other similar companies. It was a fantastic service from beginning to end and my only regret is that I didn't do it sooner!
4
42-Year-Old Female, Dunblane
Imported ·15th September 2025
Im very happy I chose connect to autism to go through the diagnosis process. Anne marie was warm, professional and explained each step of the process, this helped me feel at ease. I was very nervous about the assessment as i didn't know what sort of questions would be asked but Anne marie made me feel comfortable as soon as we started. The assessment was very insightful and helped me understand my struggles more and has helped me identify in which areas I may need more support. Overall this diagnosis has given me a great sense of relief and a better understanding of myself and im very grateful to Anne marie for the help she has given me. I would definitely recommend connect to autism to anyone else looking for an assessment.
3
30-Year-Old Female, Wales
Imported ·15th August 2025
Anne Marie has provided an expert opinion on my daughter's mental health, specifically relating to the presence or absence of ADHD and ASD. She sees beyond the obvious symptoms and complexities, and digs deep into the case history to reach a professional opinion which makes sense and I trust. I would highly recommend Anne Marie to any parent wanting to determine the presence or absence of ADHD or ASD in their child or young person.
6
62-Year-Old Mother, Glasgow
Imported ·15th August 2025
At 34 years old I received a positive diagnosis of autism following an assessment with Anne-Marie. I researched a few organisations before deciding on Connect to Autism. The assessment costs were reasonable and I received a reply from the helpful team the next day, answering my questions and offering an initial screening appointment less than a week later. I was sent the patient questionnaire to complete and only had to pay £300 at this point. I had an initial phone call assessment with Anne-Marie, and I was very anxious at the beginning but Anne-Marie instantly put me at ease, she was friendly and explained the reasoning behind her initial decision based on my report. I received an excellent service from Connect to Autism. My assessment was complete in less than a month from my initial enquiry. I was satisfied with Anne-Marie's professionalism, and specific knowledge around high masking, late diagnosed females. I felt validated and was happy to make an appointment for the assessment which was the following week. The assessment was on Zoom and lasted just under 2 hours. The pace was relaxed and everything was explained to me thoroughly. I received my report 2 days later accompanied with a statement that just states the positive diagnosis along with who Anne-Marie and Connect to Autism are. I was very satisfied with the service and would recommend to anyone seeking a private autism diagnosis.
3
34-Year-Old Female, Aberdeen
Imported ·15th May 2025
After 28 years, I finally found the courage to seek professional help — and there was Anne Marie, like a fairy godmother, appearing in my Google search just when I needed her most. From the very beginning, everything felt so easy and natural. I'm deeply grateful I chose to invest in my wellbeing; it's one of the best decisions I've ever made. Thanks to Anne Marie, I've begun to uncover who I truly am, and for the first time, I'm genuinely excited about the journey ahead.
2
29-Year-Old Female, Edinburgh
Imported ·15th May 2025
I had always struggled in social situations, I grew up feeling different from other children but never really understood why. I was very academic, why did no one like me? A couple of years ago I was watching my then 4 year old Grandson, he had just received a full diagnosis when I was struck by the similarities between him and myself as a child and started to suspect I too could be autistic. I completed the autism assessment with Annemarie which confirmed my suspicions. I was initially very anxious about going ahead. The initial phone call was enlightening Annemarie gave me a greater insight into how some of my behaviours and mannerisms shape the way I had reacted to situations in the past. Annemarie put me at ease during the full assessment over zoom, she explained things clearly and took her time going parts I was struggling with, she was friendly and understanding throughout. At the end of the assessment I felt confident in her judgement and explanations. I am happy that I went ahead and did the assessment, I just wish I had recognised the traits in myself and done this much earlier in my life.
5
56-Year-Old Female, Dumfries and Galloway
Imported ·15th May 2025
As parents to children with autism we had been questioning whether or not we also have autism for a long time. We both had our assessments with Annemarie and felt that she listened to us both, gave us real life advice we can use to help us in situations, made a lot of sense of things that we have and still do struggle with and provided us with answers to why that might be. We both thoroughly recommend Annemarie to anyone who is questioning whether they may have autism, no matter your age.
4
43-Year-Old Couple, Stoke-on-Trent
Imported ·15th May 2025
The assessment helped me to understand myself better and Anne Marie was very helpful in explaining every step of the process, which alleviated a lot of the nerves I had.
2
24-Year-Old Female Graduate Scientist, Edinburgh
Imported ·15th May 2025
I'm 40 years old and only recently started to consider whether some of my behaviours could represent autistic traits. Anne Marie helped me explore these further and also offered valuable insights to reduce the impact of these on my life. She managed to hone in on some features that I hadn't even realised would be relevant, and I'm very grateful to have felt so clearly seen. The whole process was timely and very straightforward. I was more apprehensive than I expected for the full assessment, but Anne Marie was so friendly and knowledgeable that I quickly felt at ease. I would highly recommend that anyone wondering about a potential diagnosis get in touch with Anne Marie.
4
40-Year-Old Female, Gloucestershire
Imported ·15th May 2025
Anne-Marie diagnosed me with autism at the age of 38, and her expertise and support made the whole process feel clear, reassuring, and manageable. As a mum from Glasgow, I wasn't sure what to expect, but the initial short call gave me the reassurance I needed to go ahead with the assessment. Anne-Marie's approach was person-centred and thoughtful. She took the time to understand my individual experiences and provided high-quality care throughout. She was compassionate, knowledgeable, and easy to talk to — I felt heard and understood at every stage. The assessment was clearly structured and broken into stages, which gave me space to reflect without feeling overwhelmed. I was also offered breaks should it be needed. Receiving a diagnosis has helped me understand myself a little better. I now look forward to the future with a sense of dignity and self-awareness, and I feel more able to work towards the goals that matter to me. I would absolutely recommend Anne-Marie Gallagher to anyone exploring whether they might be autistic — especially if you're looking for someone who will listen without judgment and guide you through the process with care and professionalism. Thank you!
3
38-Year-Old Mum, Glasgow
Imported ·15th April 2025
Anne-Marie made me feel comfortable with her kindness and understanding. She was patient and happy to answer all my questions, explaining everything in a way that was clear and easy to understand. Through our conversations, she helped me gain a deeper understanding of myself and recognize important personal insights. She also guided me through the assessment process and provided a well-written, articulate report that was both precise and accurate. It took me a long time to find the courage to seek a diagnosis, as I had learned to mask effectively and manage daily life routines. Anne-Marie was one of the few people who acknowledged the significance of this, particularly in females. Her recognition of this aspect made me feel truly seen and reassured, allowing me to feel more at peace with my diagnosis.
2
21-Year-Old Social Work Student, Essex
Imported ·15th March 2025
I was unsure about what to expect when embarking on my ASD assessment journey, particularly in my mid-fifties, however, Anne Marie put me at ease, clearly explained the process and was very easy to speak with and open up to. The questionnaire and assessment session were thorough and really well structured, as was the report Anne Marie prepared after the consultation, and I felt comfortable throughout the consultation. After several years of uncertainty as to whether to undertake an ASD assessment, I am really glad that I have and glad that I chose Anne Marie and Connect to Autism. Finally, thank you also to Josh whose e-mails and the information contained therein really helped smooth the whole process for me.
5
56-Year-Old Male Charity Worker, Central Scotland
Imported ·15th March 2025
I recently completed the autism assessment with Anne Marie and was impressed with how simple and straightforward the entire process was from the initial phone call to the final Zoom assessment. It was helpful that the assessment was broken down in stages so it wasn't overwhelming and gave me the opportunity to progress to the next stage when I was ready. I had been worried about what it would be like but felt that I could just be myself and answer the questions honestly throughout. It was also an enlightening experience as Anne Marie picked up on behaviours that I hadn't considered noteworthy or out of the ordinary so I appreciated that she prompted me on several occasions. The diagnostic process as a whole has helped me to change how I see myself and be kinder to myself by understanding how I interact differently with the world and why.
3
30-Year-Old Female Project Coordinator, Glasgow
Imported ·15th March 2025
Navigating an autism diagnosis at the age of 45 has been validating and complicated and I wanted to work with someone who really understood being a late diagnosed woman. I really appreciated Anne-Marie's approach to the process in being able to have a shorter call first to explore whether an assessment would be right for me and this was very reassuring. Anne-Marie is able to get to the heart of things quickly so there is no doubt and she explains things in a way that felt easy to understand which took a lot of stress out of the process for me. I felt able to understand the criteria and I valued the discussion around how that shows up for me in my life. Anne-Marie is reassuring and understanding in navigating the process of diagnosis and I now feel like I have answers I have been seeking for years and a better understanding of who I am. it is actually a very validating and empowering process. I would recommend Anne-Marie if you are seeking a diagnosis.
4
45-Year-Old Female, Essex
Imported ·15th December 2024
Anne Marie put me at ease immediately with her warm and calm demeanour. I felt heard, and understood. Not only did I receive a diagnosis, I also got some answers and explanations behind my autism behaviours and masking. Anne Marie's expertise is evident from the first consultation, and this has made a huge difference to my life.
4
46-Year-Old Female Data Analyst, West of Scotland
Imported ·15th December 2024
I'd read about how hard it was for women to get a competent diagnosis. Anne Marie's experience made sure that wasn't the case. She was warm and engaging and I felt seen. She's helped me understand why I behave as I do. The initial screening was really helpful in managing my initial worries. I'd recommend her to anyone who wants assessed but is worried about being dismissed. She won't fail to spot you!
5
51-Year-Old Female Auditor, Scotland
Imported ·15th November 2024
Anne Marie provided an incredibly thorough, sensitive and insightful diagnostic assessment that has allowed me to feel incredibly understood. Her report represented me perfectly but comprehensively and I am very grateful for her extensive experience.
2
26-Year-Old French Horn Player, London
Imported ·15th March 2024
I have learned so much about myself after my assessment with Annemarie. She explains everything well and her service has been very efficient. She has helped me embrace why I feel different to others. I can now look forward to the future in a more positive way. I only wish I had done this sooner. I highly recommend Connect to Autism.
4
40-Year-Old Music Teacher, Aberdeen
Imported ·15th March 2024
I approached Anne Marie to investigate whether ASD might explain some experiences and behaviours in my life. Between a questionnaire and two online meetings, she went into great detail in a manner which was simultaneously businesslike and efficient but also sympathetic and gentle. A couple of days after the second consultation, she submitted her detailed report. All in all the experience was smooth and professional.
5
59-Year-Old Female University Professor, Glasgow
Imported ·15th March 2024
Thoroughly recommend Connect to Autism. I was first drawn to Anne Marie's expertise in the recognition of Autism & how it presents in females, alongside her extensive diagnostic & training experience (NHS & privately). My nerves quickly lifted, as Anne Marie showed me kindness, understanding & compassion. Having the assessments broken down into two parts, was invaluable. The process felt straight forward, allowing me to learn a lot about my thought processes & behaviours. It's clear Anne Marie cares so much about helping her clients, & she provided me with insights & strategies to help manage my social & communication struggles, & wellbeing. I feel very relieved to have my diagnosis, validation, & a clearer understanding of myself & the way my brain works. I can now, at long last, start looking at my life through a different lens, & with some self-compassion. I'm so glad I chose Anne Marie for my ASD Assessment!
4
40-Year-Old Female with Fibromyalgia, Ayrshire
Imported ·15th March 2024
I'm so glad I choose Connect to Autism for my diagnostic assessment. I was very nervous but Anne Marie is lovely and everything was explained well. She's very knowledgeable too and I kind of felt like she knew me already without even saying much yet. The diagnosis (and even the process itself) helped me understand and accept myself better. Finally I have answers for loads of questions I thought I would never have the answers for. Now everything makes sense. I spent a lifetime knowing I was somehow different but not knowing why.. Now I know and I can embrace it. I'm really grateful for that and would definitely recommend Connect to Autism to anyone who is considering an assessment for ASD.
4
40-Year-Old Mother, Glasgow
Imported ·15th February 2024
Some years ago I took the AQ test online which suggested I should consider being diagnosed having recognised some behaviours in myself through people I had heard and read about in the media. Having found the NHS could feel like a gate keeper sometimes, I did not want to face going through my GP. I researched the process online and felt Anne Marie would hopefully be able to help. I had read that late diagnosis in men could present similarly to females and that diagnosing women was a strength of hers. I was nervous about going through the diagnostic process even though she seemed friendly and approachable! Through her line of questioning and explanations of behaviours and character traits, I began to understand who I am and how I have existed in the world. When I received my diagnosis I began to feel more positively about myself immediately. It also gave me fresh start to begin to think about how I can understand some of the ways I feel, think and behave and about some adaptive strategies to help me cope. I cannot stress enough how important this diagnosis has been for me. I wish I had done it years ago!
5
50-Year-Old Father, Glasgow
Imported ·15th January 2024
So pleased I decided to take the test with Connect To Autism. Process was made easy, relaxed and well explained. Anne Marie really cares about her clients. 100% recommend!
3
33-Year-Old Stand Up Comic, Glasgow
Imported ·15th October 2023
I had suspected for some time that I may have had ASD, and after doing a lot of my own research, I was quite nervous to go forward with an assessment. After looking through a number of options for assessments, Connect to Autism seemed to be the right fit – and I was right. I quickly felt at ease with Anne Marie, who was very kind and knowledgeable. The whole process was straightforward, and she has helped me understand a lot about myself throughout, as well as providing advice for the future. The diagnosis has helped me contextualise past experiences and to put a new perspective on things. I would highly recommend Anne Marie to anyone who may be unsure if they have ASD and wants to take that next step.
3
33-Year-Old Project Manager
Imported ·15th September 2023
Am always rather nervous speaking with new people, especially using zoom and being face to face with them. Am far out of my comfort zone but on meeting Anne Marie, she helped settle me and I was soon chatting away as if I'd known her for years. I was impressed with her style of questioning and knowledge of autism, but most of all I actually learnt so much from her in such a short period of time. Anne Marie helped me understand a great deal about myself and educated me on tactics that'd help me in day to day situations too. To anyone reading these testimonials and considering speaking with Anne Marie, my advice to you would be, don't delay it any further, just do it, you won't be disappointed.
5
51-Year-Old Retired Military Police Female, Ayrshire
Imported ·15th September 2023
I had done a lot of my own research into autism and was very apprehensive about getting a diagnosis, because it sounded like something that would be long, drawn out and really quite stressful, and I was worried that, as a woman, my experiences and concerns wouldn't be properly listened to. However, Anne-Marie made the experience feel a lot less stressful, that I was being listened to and that my experiences were not being discounted. I didn't realise how much I actually needed the diagnosis, until after I had it, I finally feel at peace with myself and who I am. I can only thank Anne Marie for this and I would very much recommend her to anyone looking for help.
F
Female Scientific Writer, Harrogate
Imported ·15th September 2023
Was really nervous about the assessment because knowing whether or not I have ASD would have so many implications for school and work and how I learn to navigate the world. Anne Marie was very reassuring and straightforward and immediately put me at ease. She also explained things really well, and I had several huge "light-bulb" moments that I know will be really helpful going forward. So in the end, getting the assessment and diagnosis feels not like the end of my life as I knew it, but as the start of something so much better. I am really glad I had my assessment with Anne Marie.
1
17-Year-Old Student (AFAB), Birmingham
Imported ·15th August 2023
Anne Marie is a professional with an in-depth understanding of autism and the assessment process. She noticed fine details which validates my autistic experience and promotes self-understanding. Anne Marie listens to feedback and is open to questioning, which I respect. She is a reflective practitioner. I move forward with more hope and clarity. Thank you.
3
39-Year-Old Health Worker, North West England
Imported ·15th August 2023
I found Anne Marie after my 9-year-old son was identified as having ASD by teachers at his school. When researching the condition in a bid to support my son through his diagnosis, I inadvertently found myself. I could not face tackling the process of getting a diagnosis through the NHS after years of failed support, so I looked elsewhere for someone who not only had experience of diagnosing adults with autism, but who also specialised in how the ASD presents in women. The simple belief in my story and validation of my experiences garnered from Anne-Marie has given me more confidence in who I am. It was staggering to speak to someone who understood me at such a basic level when no one else ever had. I felt seen and heard for the first time. The level of insight into how I behave and respond to the world, and her explanations about how neurotypical people function in comparison has been immensely useful in my journey to understand ASD. I was astounded to realise how much I was missing – an entire language of subtle non-verbal communication. Who knew?! A lot of people dismiss the importance of a diagnosis as an adult, including many medical professionals. But if ASD is fundamental to who I am as a person and how I interact with the world, how can it not be crucial? Having the diagnosis is allowing me not only to better understand myself (and forgive what I thought were simply failures of strength or character) but is also giving me a meaningful tool with which to advocate for myself. Through understanding my ASD I can better understand my needs and adapt my world to live more productively. Very importantly, through a formal diagnosis, I have a firmer platform from which to ask for what I need from medical professionals and my employers.
4
40-Year-Old Female Engineer, Yorkshire
Imported ·15th June 2023
If anyone is in the situation of wanting to find out if they are autistic I would highly recommend that they contact Anne Marie at Connect to Autism. My reason for choosing to go to Anne Marie was based on her specialising in autism in females, alongside her career in teaching others how to assess for autism. My experience of the assessment was positive from the point of contact. I had a prompt reply to my initial enquiry, was given clarity of the process and was met with understanding.
6
64-Year-Old Grandmother, Derbyshire
Imported ·15th May 2023
I am really pleased I chose to have the full assessment with Anne Marie because I now have clarity I needed to understand my neurodiversity and the confidence to self-advocate as an autistic woman and mother. A few years ago I started a deep dive into autism to identify if my then 4 year old son was on the spectrum. I quickly recognised myself in the research and found that I also needed answers. Unfortunately I discovered the barriers when seeking those answers from the NHS and school environment, so I was relieved when I came across Connect to Autism. From my first point of contact I was put at ease and found the process was clearly explained and felt safe. The fact that the assessment it was broken down into two parts was really helpful and felt manageable. Throughout the process Anne Marie was very professional, supportive and kind. She also gave me a few strategies for my day to day life which have been really useful. Since the diagnosis I have felt able to talk to others about my experiences and have reached out to a local support group. Without the assessment these things would have not been possible for me. So I am truly grateful that it has eliminated a lot of self-doubt and confusion and empowered me to embrace my differences and seek community.
3
39-Year-Old Professional Studio Potter, Essex
Imported ·15th May 2023
After a life time of confusion regarding social situations and other unusual behaviours, I decided to do some research on what the answer could be. During my adventure for an answer, I stumbled across Connect To Autism. I chose Anne Marie as she showed an understanding towards how autism presents in women. I was initially very anxious about the assessment process as someone who requires a high level of predictability in their life but thanks to Anne Marie the whole thing went smoothly. I now have a better understanding of myself thanks to this service.
2
22-Year-Old Female, Wales
Imported ·15th April 2023
I have struggled for as long as I can remember with social situations, I often felt like there was something wrong with me. I didn't receive any help for this, instead I was labelled as 'shy' by my teachers at school. From then, I became quite good at masking. This is why I chose Anne Marie, as she specialises in women who mask. Since my diagnosis, I have received support from my university. I am very grateful to Anne Marie, she explained the process thoroughly and, it was very organised. I was surprised at how quickly I received a diagnosis. I would recommend Anne Marie to anyone questioning if they are on the autistic spectrum.
2
21-Year-Old Female University Student, Bradford
Imported ·15th April 2023
Anne Marie was professional and understanding of my situation, allowing me to talk around assessment in our first session. She makes the process as easy as possible to take part in authentically with her gentle and supportive manner. My diagnosis has allowed me to start looking at my processes and choices in a new light, and to understand myself better on the next part of my journey. I am finding it so helpful to notice myself differently.
5
55-Year-Old Female Psychotherapist, Staffordshire
Imported ·15th April 2023
After doing several free online assessments (AQ/AQ10), I realised that I wanted to pursue a formal diagnosis. I chose Anne Marie because a colleague had recently received her formal diagnosis a few months earlier and only had great things to say. Knowing that Anne Marie has many years' experience diagnosing females, I felt like this was an important factor in my decision-making process. Also being 30 years old and understanding "masking", I was keen to speak to someone who takes this into consideration, and that many people do learn the social skills to get by in life. I now have a much greater understanding of myself and can only thank Anne Marie for being so welcoming and understanding throughout the whole process. Anne Marie is incredibly experienced in this field and that becomes so clear throughout the whole diagnostic process. I would strongly encourage anyone to use the services provided if you feel a diagnosis will help you in some way. You will not be disappointed.
As a mature female with a son with undiagnosed autistic traits, and having had similar familial patterns throughout my life, l decided to contact Anne Marie, via the Connect To Autism website, in order to investigate my own potential autism-spectrum diagnosis. And, l am so pleased that l did. The entire process was fast and seamless, and l was able to complete my entire diagnosis via intense and informative telephone and zoom calls (particularly relevant during these travel restrictive times). This was then completed by a full diagnostic report, returned by post, within 2 days. AnneMarie made the process not only interesting and very informative, but also, very enjoyable. She is a genuinely empathetic lady and a credit to her profession.
I chose to pursue my diagnosis of Asperger's with Anne Marie after reading about her experience of diagnosing adults and about her understanding of the ways in which undiagnosed adult females can camouflage their difficulties. Camouflaging, for me, had become harder in recent times with the increased pressures that come with looking after a young family, and so after doing my own research I felt sure I'd discovered the answer I'd been looking for my entire life. However, I didn't know how to present this to a GP, especially at a time when many people are facing a variety of difficulties due to lockdown. The thought of going down this route was quite overwhelming, so when I found Anne Marie's website and saw the process broken down into the different stages I immediately felt less anxious. Throughout the course of each stage of the diagnosis I felt at ease and I am so pleased I am now able to have a greater understanding of myself, as this is already having a positive impact on my sense of well-being which, in turn, benefits my family. It may have taken 37 years to get to this point but I don't feel like getting the diagnosis is the end. For me, it's just the beginning.
The two-stage assessment for autism spectrum disorder with Anne Marie Gallagher was a very positive experience. I was seeking this assessment following my daughter's ASD diagnosis a year before. Anne Marie was friendly and understanding throughout and took the time to talk in detail about the reasons for her conclusions. I am glad I chose to do the assessment with her and I am confident in the conclusions reached. Thank you!
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