Practical guides, trusted links, and clear explanations to help you navigate every aspect of the autism journey in Ireland.
Understanding the diagnostic pathway in Ireland, therapies available (OT, SALT, ABA), HSE waiting lists, and private options.
Read more →Your child's rights in the Irish education system, NCSE supports, SNA allocation, ASD units, and school placement options.
Read more →Benefits, carer's allowance, disability allowance, housing rights, and legal entitlements for autistic individuals and their families.
Read more →Plain-English explanations of common autism-related terms, acronyms, and professional language you'll encounter on the journey.
Read more →Curated external resources including AsIAm, Autism Ireland, HSE, NCSE, and other trusted national organisations.
Read more →In Ireland, you can seek a diagnosis through your GP who can refer you to the HSE's Primary Care or Children's Disability Network Teams (CDNTs). There are currently long waiting lists via public services. Many families also access private assessments through psychologists or multidisciplinary teams. A formal diagnosis is typically made by a multi-disciplinary team including a psychologist and/or psychiatrist, and may also involve a speech and language therapist or occupational therapist.
Common therapies include: Speech and Language Therapy (SALT) for communication; Occupational Therapy (OT) for sensory processing and daily living skills; Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA); Social skills groups; Play therapy; and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for older children and adults. Access depends on your child's needs and is available via HSE CDNTs or privately.
CDNTs are multidisciplinary teams of health professionals who assess and support children under 18 with complex developmental needs. Each team covers a geographic area and includes speech and language therapists, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, and others. Referral is typically through your GP. Waiting times vary significantly but AFSG can help connect you with local contacts.
While waiting for a formal diagnosis, you can: request supports from your child's school based on observed needs (a diagnosis is not always required); connect with AFSG for peer support; access information from AsIAm and Autism Ireland; look into Early Intervention supports; and keep a diary of your child's strengths, challenges, and behaviours to share with professionals.
The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) supports schools in providing for children with special educational needs. They have Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs) in each area who can advise on school placements, resource hours, SNAs, and school access. Contact your local SENO through the NCSE website (ncse.ie).
SNAs provide personal care support to students with significant care needs in schools. Allocation is based on assessed need, not diagnosis. Schools apply to the NCSE for SNA support on behalf of individual students. SNAs are not teachers – they support the student's access to education, not delivery of the curriculum.
ASD classes (also called autism spectrum disorder units) are small, specialist classes within mainstream schools. They provide a structured, supportive environment for autistic students who need additional support, while allowing integration with the broader school community. There is currently a significant shortage of ASD class places – speak to your local SENO for options in your area.
Under the Education Act 1998, schools cannot discriminate against students with disabilities. If your child is refused enrolment, you can appeal to the Department of Education. The Ombudsman for Children can also investigate. AsIAm's advocacy team and FLAC (Free Legal Advice Centres) can provide guidance. Contact AFSG and we can help point you toward appropriate supports.
Autism Spectrum Disorder – the clinical term used in formal diagnosis. Many autistic people prefer identity-first language: "autistic person".
Children's Disability Network Team – HSE teams providing therapy and assessment for children with complex needs.
National Council for Special Education – the body that allocates supports and advises on special education in Irish schools.
Special Needs Assistant – a school support worker who assists students with personal care needs.
Speech and Language Therapy/Therapist – supports communication, language development, and sometimes feeding difficulties.
Occupational Therapy/Therapist – supports sensory processing, fine motor skills, and daily living activities.
Individual Education Plan – a plan created for a student with additional needs, outlining learning goals and supports.
The concept that neurological differences (autism, ADHD, dyslexia, etc.) are natural, valuable variations in the human brain.
Ireland's national autism charity, providing advocacy, information, and Autism Friendly Awards.
Visit asiam.ie →Supporting autistic adults and families throughout Ireland with information and services.
Visit autismireland.ie →National Council for Special Education – find your local SENO and information on educational supports.
Visit ncse.ie →Information on HSE disability services, CDNTs, therapy services, and how to access them.
Visit hse.ie →Clear information on rights, benefits, and entitlements for disabled people and their carers in Ireland.
Visit citizensinformation.ie →Contact us directly and we'll do our best to point you in the right direction.