Private Child Autism Assessments
Child Autism Assessments with Experienced Specialists
We provide comprehensive, evidence-based Child Autism Assessments for children and young people. Our specialist clinicians offer thorough, neurodiversity-affirming assessments to help families understand their child’s unique strengths, needs, and support options.
What Is Autism?
Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental difference that affects how people perceive the world and interact with others. It is characterized by unique ways of processing information across key domains, including social communication, sensory processing, play and imagination, flexibility and routine, emotional regulation, and understanding social situations. Being autistic means having a brain that works differently, often bringing both challenges and distinctive strengths.
Social Communication Differences
- Limited use of eye contact or gestures
- Difficulty joining in with other children
- Literal interpretation of language
- Challenges initiating or sustaining conversation
Focused Interests
- Deep, intense knowledge of specific subjects
- Highly focused attention to detail
- Preferring specific topics in play or conversation
- Exceptional memory for specific facts
Signs of Autism in Children
Autism presents differently in every child. While no two neurodivergent children are the same, there are common developmental and behavioural indicators that often lead parents to consider a clinical assessment.
Sensory Differences
- Over or under-sensitivity to light, sound, or touch
- Restrictive eating habits based on textures
- Sensory seeking behaviours (e.g. spinning, rocking)
- Distress in crowded or noisy environments
Emotional Regulation Differences
- Intense reactions to overwhelming environments
- Difficulty expressing or identifying feelings
- Sudden changes in mood or appearing withdrawn
- Challenges with self-soothing or staying calm during stress
Routine and Predictability
- Strong preference for familiar routines
- Distress when plans change unexpectedly
- Repetitive movements or play patterns
- Difficulty with transitions between activities
When to Consider an Assessment
Identifying the right time to seek a formal evaluation is a personal journey for every family. You may notice specific patterns of behavior or interaction that suggest your child experiences the world differently.
- Persistent difficulties with social communication and interaction
- Significant challenges in forming or maintaining friendships
- Noticeable sensory sensitivities or unconventional reactions to sensory input
- Visible distress or anxiety when faced with changes to routine
- Highly focused or intense interests that occupy significant time
- Ongoing struggles within the school environment or educational setting
- Concerns raised by teachers, healthcare professionals, or other caregivers
Our Assessment Process
STEP 01
Information Gathering
We collect detailed background information from parents, caregivers, and educational settings to understand the child's development and current experiences.
STEP 02
Comprehensive Clinical Assessment
Specialist clinicians conduct direct observations and standardized assessments (such as ADOS-2 and ADI-R) tailored to the child's age and communication style.
STEP 03
Consideration of Co-Occurring Conditions
We evaluate potential overlap with other neurodevelopmental differences, such as ADHD, to ensure a complete and accurate understanding of the child's profile.
STEP 04
Diagnostic Outcome
A multidisciplinary team reviews all evidence to reach a consensus, followed by a feedback meeting with parents to discuss finding and diagnosis.
STEP 05
Detailed Diagnostic Report
A comprehensive report is provided, documenting the diagnostic process and offering personalized recommendations to support the child at home and in school.
Autism in Girls
Autism can present very differently in girls, which often leads to them being overlooked or misdiagnosed. Many girls develop sophisticated 'masking' techniques to camouflage their difficulties in social situations, often appearing highly engaged while internally struggling with the significant effort required to navigate social expectations.
- Sophisticated social imitation and 'masking' of autistic traits
- Appearing socially engaged while experiencing internal exhaustion
- Intense interests that may appear more socially typical (e.g., animals, literature)
- High levels of social anxiety and a strong desire to 'fit in'
- Internalising distress, which can lead to late identification or misdiagnosis
Autism and School
Challenges in School
- Navigating complex social interactions
- Managing demands of group work and collaboration
- Coping with unexpected changes to daily routine
- Processing high sensory demands of the classroom
- Managing transitions between subjects or classes
- Understanding implicit social expectations
Strengths and Potential
- Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy
- Highly creative and original thinking
- Deep knowledge in areas of intense interest
- Strong long-term memory and recall
- High levels of honesty and reliability
- Unique and logical problem-solving abilities
Autism and ADHD
Autism and ADHD often coexist, with many children displaying traits of both. This overlap can impact how a child processes information and interacts with their environment. Understanding this junction is crucial for tailored support, which is why we offer dedicated assessment pathways to explore both profiles comprehensively.
What Happens After Diagnosis?
Receiving an autism diagnosis can be a significant moment for your family. It is the beginning of a journey toward better understanding and tailored support for your child's unique way of experiencing the world.
- Parent psychoeducation to understand neurodivergence
- School support strategies and reasonable adjustments
- Emotional wellbeing support for the child and family
- Follow-up appointments and specialist reviews
- Neurodevelopmental support services integration
- Signposting to community and family resources
Why Choose Ultra Medical Group
Specialist Expertise
Deep clinical expertise in specialist autism assessment and neurodevelopmental conditions.
Comprehensive Reports
Detailed, evidence-based diagnostic reports with actionable recommendations for home and school.
Neurodiversity-Affirming
A strengths-based approach that validates your child's unique way of experiencing the world.
Evidence-Based
Utilising GOLD-standard tools including ADOS-2 and ADI-R for clinical accuracy.
Family-Centred Care
Supporting families through every step with compassion, clarity, and open communication.
Timely Access
Dedicated to reducing wait times and providing families with faster access to support.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a child autism assessment usually take?
The assessment process is comprehensive and typically takes place over several weeks. This includes initial information gathering, clinical observations (such as ADOS-2), and a multi-disciplinary review to ensure a thorough diagnostic outcome.
What is an ADOS-2, and why is it used?
The Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2) is the 'gold standard' clinical assessment tool. It involves structured activities and play-based interactions that allow our clinicians to observe social communication and repetitive behaviors in a naturalistic setting.
Do we need a GP referral to book an assessment?
No, you do not need a formal referral from your GP to access our private services. Parents and caregivers can contact us directly to discuss their concerns and begin the assessment process.
Will the diagnostic report be accepted by my child's school?
Yes. Our assessments follow National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines. The detailed diagnostic report we provide is evidence-based and designed to help schools implement reasonable adjustments and support strategies.
What if my child also shows signs of ADHD?
It is common for autism and ADHD to co-occur. We offer combined assessments for families who suspect their child may have both neurodivergent profiles, providing a holistic understanding of their development.
How soon can we receive the final diagnostic report?
Following the final multidisciplinary consensus meeting, a detailed diagnostic report is typically provided within two to four weeks. This report includes specific recommendations for home and school support.
Book Your Child Autism Assessment
Take the first step toward understanding your child’s unique neurodevelopmental profile and accessing the right support.