Specialist Autism and ADHD assessments for children, young people and adults in Derby
Our 7-stage Gold-standard Autism assessment pathway
A clear, compassionate, NICE‑aligned process for children, young people, and adults.
Whether you are seeking clarity for your child, exploring neurodivergence in adolescence, or wondering if lifelong strengths and challenges might be explained by autism in adulthood, our assessment pathway is designed to give you understanding, confidence, and a clear plan for the future.
Stage 1 - Screening Appointment
A warm, welcoming first meeting where we take time to understand your concerns, explore developmental history, and consider how neurodivergence may be showing up in daily life. We will talk through what you’re noticing, answer initial questions, go through screening questionnaires and then outline whether a full assessment is the right next step.
Outcome: Clear guidance and recommendations.
Stage 4 - Direct Assessment
A structured, evidence‑based assessment using the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule‑2 (ADOS-2). This includes interactive play, creative tasks, and interaction to evaluate communication and social interaction differences. Our ADOS always involves 2 highly experienced clinicians as recommended.
Why it matters: It creates a 'social world' to observe how an individual interacts.
Stage 2 - In-Depth Clinical Interview
An in-depth conversation tailored to age and stage of life structured by gold standard assessment tools.
For children, this focuses on early development, social communication, behaviour, and school experiences.
For adults, we explore early childhood experiences and lifelong patterns of communication, social interaction and behaviour.
Why it matters: Neurodevelopmental conditions are lifelong - understanding the whole story is essential.
Stage 5 - Clinical Formulation
Our experienced clinicians thoroughly review all of the information collated. We look at other diagnostic considerations and ensure the outcome accurately conveys individual strengths and difficulties.
Why it matters: You benefit from the combined expertise of two Clinical Psychologists to consider a holistic overview.
Stage 3 - Multi-Setting Information Gathering
We gather insight from the environments that matter most.
For children, this includes school input.
For adults, this may include partner/family questionnaires or workplace/education information.
Why it matters: Neurodivergence shows up differently across settings - we build a complete picture.
Stage 6 - Feedback Session
We meet with you to explain the findings clearly and compassionately. We discuss the diagnostic outcome, answer your questions, and explore what this means for you or your child. We also outline practical next steps and support options.
Why it matters: You leave with clarity, understanding, and direction.
Stage 7 - Full Written Report With Recommendations
Optional Add On:
Cognitive Assessment
You receive a detailed, high‑quality report that is in line with NHS standards and NICE guidance. It includes strengths, support needs, recommendations, and guidance for home, school, work, or daily life.
Why it matters: You gain a life-long document that facilitates understanding and accessing support, e.g. EHCP / reasonable adjustments at work.
As part of the assessment process, we can offer an optional cognitive assessment. This provides a clear picture of how an individual processes information across verbal reasoning, visual‑spatial skills, problem‑solving, working memory and processing speed.
Contact Us
Get in touch to learn more.