Child Autism Assessment
Our clinicians are highly experienced and trained to assess and formally diagnose Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in children age 6 to 17. Child autism assessments can be face to face in Christchurch, Dorset, or virtual by video.
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Why go with us?
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Our assessments are NICE compliant and multidisciplinary team led (MDT)
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We have completed relevant training in standardised autism testing, such as the ADOS-2 and ADI-R
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We understand the range of autism presentations in children and how they can present in different contexts, and how children might mask in certain environments.
1
The Process
Initial Child Autism Screening Appointment
This is an initial assessment meeting held with Dr Sara Dowsett to explore current concerns and developmental history. This is to ensure you are on the right assessment pathway. The fee for this appointment is £150. By the end of this meeting, if evidence of traits is sufficient, a clear recommendation will be made for one of the following:
• Autism assessment
• ADHD assessment
• Combined Autism and ADHD assessment
2
ASD Information Gathering
Following the initial assessment, evidence collection begins. Parents will be sent questionnaires and information forms to complete. Forms will also be requested from relevant informants such as teachers. Parents will be asked to share any relevant reports or medical history to support the assessment.
3
ADI‑R & ADOS-2 Child Assessment
Once evidence forms have been returned, you will be contacted to book an ADI‑R (Autism Diagnostic Interview – Revised) assessment and an ADOS-2 assessment.
ADI-R Assessment: The is a detailed parent interview conducted by a different clinician as part of the multidisciplinary team (MDT).
ADOS‑2 In‑Person Observation: This involves an in-person clinic appointment in Christchurch, Dorset, with Dr Sara Dowsett. During the session, your child will take part in a range of structured play based activities designed to support observation of their communication style, social interaction, and behaviour. The session is child led and aims to help your child feel as comfortable and at ease as possible. Following the observation, parents will be invited into the clinic room to ask
any questions and discuss the next steps.
4
MDT Clinical Decision
The ADI‑R interview, ADOS‑2 observation, and all collected evidence are reviewed together, along with the additional assessing clinician. The MDT will discuss the case and make a diagnostic decision.
5
Feedback and Child ASD Report
A feedback appointment face to face in Dorset or online is arranged with parents to explain the assessment outcome, and support needs and recommendations are discussed in detail. This is a place to reflect on the outcome and figure out the next best steps together. Within three weeks of the feedback session, a comprehensive written report is sent via email. The report outlines the assessment process, diagnostic outcome, and detailed recommendations. Parents can share this report with schools, healthcare providers, NHS and other relevant services.
Get in Touch
Send us a message today to begin the process.