AUTISM ASSESSMENT SERVICES

In addition to providing mental health services, Dr Laura Onens (Clinical Psychologist with Four Oaks Psychology) works as part of a neurodiversity team at Private GP, offering private Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) assessment and diagnostic services to families in the Midlands.

Based in Leicestershire, the neurodiversity team at Private GP benefits from the expertise of a wide range of health professionals including, Clinical Psychologists, Speech and Language Therapists, Occupational Therapists, General Practitioners (with specialism in functional medicine), Nutritionists, Specialist Counsellors, and a Consultant Paediatrician.

A gold standard approach

The comprehensive service offers a gold standard approach to ASD diagnosis, which aims to gain holistic understanding of the identified areas of concern. A minimum of 18 hours of professional time is allocated to each assessment, which as standard includes: pre and post assessment counselling, a medical examination, clinical consultation about the areas of concern, direct observation/clinical assessment of the young person, assessment of cognition/intellectual difficulties and liaison with school (including observation in the school environment if indicated). Due to this comprehensive level of assessment, the neurodiversity team at Private GP are expertly placed to diagnose Autism Spectrum Disorder, but also to advise on differential diagnoses or co-existing conditions.

Post assessment support, for as long as you need it

Rather than simply provide diagnosis, Private GP are also in the unique position of being able to offer focussed post-assessment support services to help families support their children to meet their potential and thrive. Due to the wide range of professionals, a tailored, individualised approach can be recommended to families depending on the needs of the young person. This may include additional support from specialist counsellors/therapists, psychologists, medical doctors, speech and language therapists, occupational therapists, and nutritionists.

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

Autism is neurodevelopmental condition where individuals may exhibit difficulties in particular areas of social interaction and communication. These may include speech delay, repetitive behaviours or highly focussed interests; sensory sensitivities; and limited use and understanding of non-verbal communication and gestures. Individuals with these types of difficulties can often struggle managing routines within their normal, everyday lives and may have problems establishing social rapport/relationships. Further, due to social misunderstanding, children with autism may often find themselves labelled as ‘naughty’ due to the unique way they may communicate emotional distress or misunderstandings of the world around them through behaviours that challenge.

Why seek diagnosis?

Not everyone who suspects that they or their child may have ASD may want to seek a diagnosis. However, for many, a diagnosis can have real benefits. In particular, it can help make sense of the difficulties your child is experiencing and can support you (and others) to compassionately understand some of the behaviours that you may see.

In understanding these difficulties as part of the autism spectrum, parents are more equipped to obtain focussed support to help them and their child manage their difficult experiences. Allowing people with autism to thrive and reach their potential.