Autism Assessment Service

Welcome to our Autism Assessment Service. We recognise that navigating an Autism assessment process can be overwhelming, but it is a crucial step towards understanding and supporting your child with Autism. We aim to support you through the process and are always on hand to answer any questions.

Why Cura Psychology?

We are not simply an assessment service. We have a team of clinicians who offer therapy and other services too including play therapy and positive behavioural support packages. This means that we can offer follow up after your assessment if you wish. We are thorough and offer a Gold standard recommended assessment involving a multidisciplinary approach.

What is Autism?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by challenges in social communication and interaction, as well as restricted interests and repetitive behaviours. It is a spectrum disorder, meaning it manifests differently in each individual.

Why Assessment is important:

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Early identification and intervention can significantly improve outcomes for individuals with Autism.

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Assessment helps to identify strengths, challenges, and support needs, guiding tailored interventions and strategies.

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It provides clarity and understanding for individuals and families, fostering acceptance and empowerment.

The Overview of our Assessment Process:

Below is detailed our comprehensive Gold Standard step-by-step guide which ensures that our assessments are compliant with NICE recommendations and will meet Local Authority expectations. We aim to complete assessments within 6 weeks of the initial appointment.

STEP 1: REFERRAL

The assessment process typically begins with a referral. This referral can be initiated by parents, caregivers, or sometimes by educators, or healthcare providers who have observed behaviours consistent with ASD and have the consent of the parents or guardians to refer to us.

STEP 2: INITIAL SCREENING

Once referred, the parent will be asked to complete an initial screening to evaluate their child’s developmental and behavioural characteristics. This may involve completing questionnaires, or gathering further information on the telephone to decide if a full assessment is indicated.

STEP 3: COMPREHENSIVE EVALUATION

If the initial screening indicates a likelihood of ASD, a comprehensive evaluation will be conducted, and a lead clinician will be assigned. This is usually the clinician who meets with the parents to take a full developmental history. They will also be the person who feeds back to you. This evaluation involves a multidisciplinary team of specialists, which may include clinical psychologists, speech therapists or other trained mental health professionals.

The evaluation will include:

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Detailed developmental history for 1-2 hours with parents, face to face or online.

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Behavioural observations using the ADOS-2* completed face to face at our clinic in Lichfield.

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Detailed report from school and observation if required.

* This involves a 60-minute assessment with your child which includes a number of tasks designed to elicit the following observations:

verbal and non-verbal skills (gestures and eye movement)
use of non-literal language (metaphor, humour, irony)
content, clarity, and coherence of conversation
social skills (understanding others and ability to react to verbal cues)

STEP 4: DIAGNOSTIC DECISION

Based on the findings from the comprehensive evaluation, the multidisciplinary team will make a diagnostic decision regarding ASD. This decision will consider the criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) or other relevant diagnostic guidelines.

STEP 5: FEEDBACK AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Following the diagnostic decision, a report will be provided to the family. The lead clinician will then provide a 30-minute feedback which is usually delivered remotely via zoom, to discuss the assessment findings and recommendations for intervention and support services tailored to their child’s needs.

STEP 6: ONGOING MONITORING AND SUPPORT

ASD is a lifelong condition, and ongoing monitoring and support are important for children and their families. Regular follow-up appointments with healthcare professionals, therapists, and educators can help track progress, adjust interventions, and address any emerging needs. We will give detailed recommendations regarding further support and signpost to relevant agencies.

COSTS

Our full cost for a comprehensive assessment is £2000*. This can be agreed in two installments to include 50% at onboarding/agreement to proceed, and 50% prior to release of the report. Otherwise, full payment at point on onboarding is required.

*Occasionally additional costs for travel to schools may apply if the school is outside our local area, however this would be discussed with you at onboarding.

SUPPORT

We recognise that navigating an Autism assessment process can be overwhelming, but it is a crucial step towards understanding and supporting your child with Autism. We aim to support you through the process and are always on hand to answer any questions.

For more information and support do get in touch on admin@curapsychology.co.uk or via our enquiries form. We would love to hear from you.