Autism (ASD) Assessment in Limassol, Cyprus
Evidence-based support for children aged 2–18
ASD Asperger’s Social communication Sensory processing Neurodivergent Co-occurring ADHD
Understanding autism
Understanding whether your child is autistic can be one of the most important and clarifying steps a family takes. At Empathic Psychologist in Limassol, we provide comprehensive, neuroaffirmative autism assessments for children and young people aged 2–18 — carried out with care, clinical rigour and deep respect for the individual child. Sessions in English and Greek, in person in Limassol and online across Cyprus.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by differences in social communication, sensory processing and patterns of behaviour, interests and activities. Autism is a spectrum — meaning it presents very differently from person to person, and no two autistic children are the same.
Autism is not an illness or a deficit. It is a different way of experiencing and interacting with the world — one that comes with genuine strengths as well as real challenges. A diagnosis does not change who your child is — it provides a framework for understanding them more deeply and supporting them more effectively.
Autism frequently co-occurs with other conditions — including ADHD, anxiety, depression, sensory processing difficulties and learning differences. Identifying these alongside autism is an essential part of a comprehensive assessment and ensures support addresses the child's full profile.
Autism in girls — frequently missed
Autism in girls and young women is significantly underdiagnosed — often masked by social camouflaging, the ability to mimic social behaviour and differences in how autistic traits present in females. If you have concerns about your daughter, a specialist assessment is particularly important.
What parents sometimes notice
Differences in social communication — difficulty reading social cues, understanding unspoken rules or navigating friendships
Preference for routines — significant distress when plans change unexpectedly
Intense, focused interests in specific topics or activities
Sensory sensitivities — strong reactions to sounds, textures, lights, smells or tastes
Differences in eye contact or non-verbal communication
Delayed or atypical language development in younger children
Preference for parallel or solitary play rather than interactive peer play
Difficulty understanding others' perspectives or emotions
Repetitive movements, sounds or behaviours that provide regulation
Significant difficulty with transitions between activities or environments
Social exhaustion — appearing fine at school but melting down at home
Masking — working very hard to appear neurotypical, leading to significant fatigue and anxiety
Autistic children are wonderfully diverse — there is no single presentation. If you have concerns about your child, you can contact us directly. A free 15-minute consultation will help clarify whether a full assessment is appropriate and what the process involves.
How Dr George Efraem helps: our therapeutic approach
Our approach is grounded in established evidence-based practice and draws on multiple therapeutic frameworks, tailored to each child's individual profile, age and developmental stage.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Evidence-based CBT adapted to the autistic child's cognitive style — addressing co-occurring anxiety, depression and negative self-beliefs using concrete, visual and structured approaches.
Neuroaffirmative Therapy
A fundamental approach that affirms autism as a valid neurological difference — building the child's self-understanding, self-acceptance and pride in their identity rather than attempting to mask or suppress autistic traits.
Creative Multimedia and Play Therapy
For younger children — using play, special interests and creative approaches as therapeutic entry points, honouring the child's natural way of engaging with the world.
Third Wave CBT Therapies
Adapted mindfulness techniques supporting sensory regulation, anxiety management and present-moment awareness — tailored to the individual child's profile and preferences. These therapies help build the child's awareness and regulation of intense emotions — using practical, tangible strategies tailored to the autistic child's sensory and emotional profile.
Attachment-based Approaches
Strengthening the parent-child relationship as a foundation for the autistic child's emotional security, development and wellbeing.
Social Skills & Communication Support
Supporting social confidence and communication in a neuroaffirmative way — not to make autistic children appear neurotypical but to give them tools for navigating social situations on their own terms.
Assessment & Therapy Programmes for Autism
Child Therapy Programme (Ages 2–12)
Following autism assessment, therapeutic support for children aged 2–12 is delivered through our Child Therapy Programme — addressing co-occurring anxiety, emotional regulation difficulties and social communication needs within a neuroaffirmative, child-led framework.
Adolescent Therapy Programme (Ages 12–18)
Following autism assessment, therapeutic support for young people aged 12–18 is delivered through our Adolescent Therapy Programme — supporting identity development, anxiety management and social wellbeing within a neuroaffirmative therapeutic approach.
Parent-Child Empathy Programme
⭐Recommended for enhanced outcomes ⭐
Parents of autistic children may also be recommended to attend our Parent-Child Empathy Programme — building understanding of their child's sensory, emotional and social profile and developing strategies that work with rather than against their child's neurodivergent needs.
*Available standalone or alongside child therapy
What to expect
Assessment at Empathic Psychologist begins with a thorough understanding of the child and family context — not just the presenting behaviour. Dr George Efraem takes time to understand the child's full developmental history, current stressors and the settings in which difficulties occur before formulating a clinical picture.
Following an initial free 15-minute consultation, Dr George Efraem conducts a comprehensive assessment (typically 2 sessions) using clinical interview, validated psychometric scales and collaborative feedback from parents and school where appropriate.
A personalised therapy plan is developed and shared with the family. Therapy typically runs 12–24 weekly sessions of 50 minutes, with regular progress reviews.
*Most families receive their first appointment within one week of getting in touch.
Psychiatric referral pathway
Where screening indicates a strong likelihood of ASD, we may recommend a psychiatric and allied health assessments to clarify the diagnostic picture and determine whether medication evaluation may be beneficial. Dr George Efraem will guide families through this process and liaise with the psychiatrist or other health professionals where consent is given.
Free 15-min consultation
Discuss your child's needs and concerns with Dr George Efraem — no commitment required
Comprehensive assessment
2–3 sessions using screening tools, clinical interviews and child observation. Detailed formulation, findings and personalised recommendations for home and school
Psychiatric liaison if needed
Where indicated, Dr George Efraem guides and supports families through psychiatric referral
Therapy and ongoing support
12–24 sessions tailored to your child's individual Autism profile with regular parent sessions
**Content is grounded in peer-reviewed research and evidence-based clinical guidelines. Sources available on request.
Ready to take the first step?
Call Now for a free 15-minute consultation with Dr George E. Agathokleous — most families receive an assessment appointment within one week.