A private autism assessment is a comprehensive evaluation carried out by our independent healthcare professionals to determine whether an individual meets the criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This process is designed to provide a detailed understanding of an individual’s strengths and challenges, ultimately leading to personalised recommendations for support.
Unlike public healthcare assessments, which can involve long waiting times and limited resources, our private autism assessments offer a more immediate and in-depth approach. They are conducted by our multidisciplinary team, including clinical psychologist, speech and language therapist, and occupational therapist, ensuring a thorough, muti-disciplinary assessment.
For families seeking clarity, support, and a timely diagnosis, a private assessment can be invaluable. Hertfordshire, one of the main locations of Gesher Assessment Centre, has become a specialist destination for such services.
Our Private Autism Assessment Process
Our assessment process is structured to be thorough, compassionate, and evidence-based. Here’s what to expect:
Initial Screening Call
The process begins with a brief screening call with one of our experienced clinical administrators or assistant psychologists. This is an opportunity for parents or caregivers to share their concerns, discuss the individual’s developmental history, and discuss possible next steps.
This step ensures that families receive guidance on whether an initial assessment is appropriate, helping to set expectations and prepare for the next stages.
Initial Assessment
The next step is an in-person Initial Assessment appointment lasting up to 90 minutes. This session includes the child or young person and their parents or caregivers. The aim is to gather detailed information about the individual’s developmental, medical, and educational history while observing behaviours and interactions.
Our clinicians use this session to understand everyday challenges and strengths, ensuring that the full diagnostic assessment is tailored to the individual’s needs.
Comprehensive Diagnostic Assessment
Following the initial assessment, we conduct a full diagnostic assessment. This includes:
- Face-to-face sessions with the child or young person to observe social communication, interaction, and behaviour patterns.
- Structured interviews with parents or caregivers to discuss developmental history in detail.
- Standardised diagnostic tools, such as the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2) and the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R), to ensure an accurate and evidence-based diagnosis.
This stage is crucial in forming a clear diagnostic picture, allowing us to provide detailed insights and recommendations.
Feedback and Comprehensive Report
Once the assessment is complete, our multidisciplinary team reviews their findings. Within one to two weeks, families receive detailed feedback. A comprehensive written report is provided, outlining:
- The assessment process and findings
- A diagnostic conclusion
- Personalised recommendations for support at home, school, and in daily life
This report is valuable for accessing further support, including educational accommodations, therapy options, and workplace adjustments.
Why Choose Us for a Private Autism Assessment?
Hertfordshire is home to Gesher Assessment Centre. Here are some key reasons why families choose us in Hertfordshire for private autism assessments:
Highly Experienced Multidisciplinary Team
At the Gesher Assessment Centre, we employ highly skilled professionals, including clinical psychologists, speech and language therapists, and occupational therapists. Our team works collaboratively to provide a thorough assessment, ensuring all aspects of an individual’s needs are considered.
Gold Standard Assessments
Our assessments are conducted following the guidelines of the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). This ensures that the diagnostic process meets the highest clinical standards, providing families with confidence in their results.
Shorter Waiting Times
One of the biggest challenges with public autism assessments is the long waiting time. Our private assessments in Hertfordshire significantly reduce this delay, allowing families to receive timely evaluations and start appropriate interventions sooner.
Comprehensive Post-Diagnostic Support
A diagnosis is just the beginning. We provide extensive post-diagnostic support, including:
- Personalised recommendations for educational settings
- Strategies for managing challenges at home and in social situations
- Guidance on therapy options and additional services
Availability of Dual Assessments
For individuals who may present with overlapping conditions, such as autism and ADHD, we offer dual assessments. This ensures a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of an individual’s neurodevelopmental profile, leading to more effective support strategies.
Our Empathetic and Understanding Approach
Undergoing an autism assessment can be an emotional and sometimes overwhelming experience for individuals and their families. Recognising this, we adopt an approach that is both compassionate and child-friendly:
- Child-Centred Assessments: Our assessment environment is designed to be comfortable and engaging for children, ensuring that they feel at ease throughout the process.
- Family Involvement: Parents and caregivers are included at every stage, providing valuable insights and receiving support on how to help their child thrive.
- Clear Communication: We ensure that findings and recommendations are explained in a way that is easy to understand, avoiding unnecessary jargon.
If you are considering an autism assessment for your child or yourself, taking the step towards a private assessment in Hertfordshire can make a significant difference. To learn more about our process or to book an initial screening call or fill out the contact form on our website
