Autism Assessments for Children

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Autism is a lifelong developmental disability which affects how an individual communicates with and relates to other people and is also characterised by restricted, repetitive patterns of behaviour, interests or activities. It is a “spectrum” condition which means that it varies in severity from” low functioning” to “high functioning” autism (previously known as Asperger’s syndrome).

In addition to these features, people with autism frequently experience a range of cognitive, learning, language, medical, emotional and behavioural problems. These can include a need for routine and difficulty understanding other people, including their intentions, feelings and perspectives. Approximately 60-70% of people with autism have some degree of learning disability and around 70% have at least 1 other (often unrecognised) physical or mental health problem, such as sleep problems, eating problems, epilepsy, anxiety, depression, ADHD, coordination problems and sensory sensitivities. These problems can substantially affect the person’s quality of life and that of their families or carers, and lead to social vulnerability.

We offer the following Autism assessment for children at the Centre:

Autism Diagnostic Package

This assessment is carried out by two clinicians. Information is obtained from home and school and evaluated before the appointment. The main assessments carried out include an ADOS, parent interview and if required, a cognitive assessment.

The ADOS (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule) is a semi-structured assessment of communication, social interaction and play (or imaginative use of materials) carried out with your child, and the parental interview concentrates on developmental history and current behaviours.

The cognitive assessment measures intellectual ability and includes assessment of comprehension, reasoning, working memory and processing speed. Difficulties in some of these areas are sometimes seen in children with Autism and if identified, measures can be put into place in school to help your child.

We may recommend additional assessments such as a Speech and Language or an Occupational Therapy assessment as appropriate.

Feedback is given during an appointment and a comprehensive report is produced with a detailed explanation of the findings and future recommendations.

Cost of assessment £2000

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