ASD Assessments
Lancashire Therapy Lounge offers ASD assessments to diagnose Autistic Spectrum Disorder. We offer a robust diagnostic assessment based on NICE guidance. ASD assessments may include analysing information from a number of sources.
​
We are a private practice and our assessments, training and services are not funded by the NHS. There are NHS pathways for ASD diagnosis in most localities and we advise speaking to your GP regarding NHS referral for assessment. However, please be aware, there are often long waiting times. ​Should you opt to pay for a private assessment instead, we are at your service.
​
The most comprehensive assessment of autism should take into account observation, clinical interview, gathering developmental history and use of specific diagnostic tools. In order to be widely accepted, a private autism assessment must adhere to the same requirements and standards for diagnosing set out by NICE. We offer a robust diagnostic assessment based on the NICE guidance, in the same way that assessments in the NHS are conducted.
​
Our highly-qualified chartered psychologist carries out the detailed assessment taking into account:
1) Psychiatric History – Any previous reports reports from GP’s, schools, and other bodies are considered.
2) Neurodevelopmental History – An assessment of early childhood development and current behaviours.
3) Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule - 2nd Edition (ADOS-2) and/or Autism Diagnostic Interview - Revised (ADI-R) – These are considered the ”Gold Standard” in an ASD diagnostic assessment
​​
The assessment process takes approximately one month, involving 4 appointments via our clinic in Longridge or Blackpool and a written report. The ADOS-2 assessment does need to be carried out in person, but the remainder of the assessment appointments can be carried out online if desired.
​
Assessments are appropriate for both adults and children from the age of 18 months.
​
Fees include initial consultation, assessment, report, feedback and guidance on bespoke recommendations. There are no hidden extra costs. There is a dedicated point of contact throughout the assessment process to keep you updated throughout the whole process. Fees are payable in full at the point of booking the screening appointment and/or the assessment and are non-refundable. Payment via bank transfer is preferred.
​
If you intend to use any subsequent diagnosis to access NHS or local authority services, it is advised that you check they will accept a private diagnosis in advance of booking the assessment. There is no reason they should not, the assessment adheres to the requirements and standards for diagnosing set out by NICE and only go ahead if the screening appointment indicates that ASD could be present and a full assessment is warranted. However, some Trusts and local authorities can differ in their recognition of a private diagnosis.
​
Currently our service has no waiting list for ASD assessments.
​
The total cost of an Autism Assessment is £1500. Fees include initial consultation, assessment, report, feedback and guidance on bespoke recommendations. There are no hidden extra costs. There is a dedicated point of contact throughout the assessment process to keep you updated throughout the whole process.
​
As an additional option, in the event you would prefer the ADOS-2 observation part of the assessment to take place at a School or home rather than at the clinic, there may be a charge for this additional service depending on location.
​
Please get in touch if you would like to discuss booking an assessment via our online assessment form or by telephone on 07399 263951.
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
.
​
