This initial contact will provide feedback as to whether we think there is a clinical likelihood of Autism. If we don't think your child will meet criteria, we won't move forward and you won't be charged. We charge a £200 fee for this
Screening questionnaires will be sent to school at this stage for completion.
Conducted in clinic or online, this approximately 3 hour appointment will investigate your child's presentation and developmental history using a validated questionnaire, the ADI-R.
We'll be asking lots of questions about both your child in the present and also what they were like as a young child and at 4-5 years old.
Taking place in a local, child-friendly clinic this appointment focuses on the child using the well-regarded ADOS-2 assessment.
All our clinicians are experts in putting children at ease, even those who are highly anxious. We'll want to make the appointment as fun as possible. If your child requires any preparation for the appointment, such as a letter from the person they will be meeting, we provide this free of charge.
One of the main benefits of having a clinical psychologist involved in assessment is the opportunity to have your child's learning profile mapped out using a validated assessment the Weschler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC-V). We don't insist on these as they are not insisted upon by NICE guidance for ADHD assessment but they provide invaluable insights into how your child learns and help to tailor educational recommendations.
On occasion the information from school in their questionnaires is overwhelmingly enough. At others times we need more. Depending on your child's needs we will liaise with your child's school, and where indicated organise a school observation or interview.
Any professional who has been involved in your child's assessment process will be consulted. All information is combined to decide:
1. Whether your child meets criteria for a diagnosis of autism
2. Your child's specific profile and how this impacts their strengths and challenges
3. To put together meaningful recommendations to help your child meet their potential.
Doctor Jo will always sign these off.
We write up a comprehensive report that has four clear aims:
1. A detailed section on your child's profile.
2. Clear, personalised recommendations on how best to help at home AND school.
3. A detailed summary of the NICE-approved assessment process we have conducted
4. A letter to your child explaining the outcome of their assessment.
You are provided with full feedback on the assessment and our recommendations.
You have the chance to ask questions about the report and ensure you feel comfortable understanding what works for your child at this given time.
Your child is welcome to attend if you think they would benefit from doing so, or we can conduct with just parents.
If your child does meet diagnostic criteria for Autism, then you can access our online membership. We understand that some families want to research immediately and others need a bit of time for the news to sink in. Know there is space to ask questions from a familiar face and meet other parents going through the same process.
Your assessment entitles you to two months membership.