Assessment for Autism
The Childhealthy team offers a high-quality, multi-disciplinary assessment service for children with potential Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
We currently provide assessments for children aged 2 to 12 years.
Our expert team includes a Consultant Developmental Paediatrician, a Highly Specialist Paediatric Speech & Language Therapist, and a Highly Specialist Paediatric Occupational Therapist. Together, they bring extensive experience and expertise in autism, neurodiversity, and supporting children with developmental differences.
The assessment comprises of the following stages:
- An initial developmental paediatric assessment during which parental concerns and priorities will be discussed and the child is physically examined. At this appointment, a recommendation will be made as to whether a full assessment for ASD would be helpful for your child. The cost for this initial assessment with a consultant is £495.
- A further diagnostic history-taking appointment (using the Autism Diagnostic Interview – ADI-R) – this appointment can be arranged virtually if preferred.
- A play-based assessment of the child’s communication, interaction and play skills (using the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule – ADOS II).
- A formal assessment of the child’s understanding and expressive language skills and communication profile.
- Information will be obtained from the child’s current education setting (nursery or school) - with parental consent.
- A feedback meeting with the professionals involved in the assessment and the child’s parents in order to discuss the findings and recommendations. This will be carried out virtually.
- A report will be produced which summarises the assessment and recommendations, individually tailored to the needs of the child.
- A follow-up appointment with a professional involved in the assessment and the child’s parents. This appointment is an opportunity for parents to ask any questions they may have about the report and next steps.
Some children may require additional assessments, for example:
- An assessment of learning (cognitive) skills (Bayley Scales of Development).
- A detailed observation of the child’s communication and interaction skills at school.
- A Sensory Profile assessment (including information from both home and school via the use of the Sensory Processing Measure), to understand the child’s sensory processing challenges at home and at school and identify strategies to promote engagement and participation in daily routines.
- A standardised assessment of the child’s fine and gross motor skills
- A comprehensive Occupational Therapy assessment covering the main functional areas of participation of the child:
- being productive (participating in activities and routines at nursery or school, participating in pre-writing/handwriting activities and using tools in the nursery such as crayons or pencils)
- self-care (dressing themselves, using the toilet/having a bath, using cutlery)- and enjoying leisure activities (engaging in functional play, playing with friends, doing sports or hobbies)
The cost for the initial assessment with a consultant is £495 and if recommended all the subsequent steps of the standard assessment are charged at £2,775. If additional assessments are required this will be discussed with the parents in advance and will be charged separately. Please contact our office for more information.
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