FAQs

A self-pay assessment means you are paying privately for an assessment rather than accessing it through public healthcare or insurance. This often allows for shorter waiting times, greater flexibility, and more personalised care.

Self-pay Autism and ADHD assessments are suitable for:

• Children or adults who suspect they may be autistic and/or have ADHD
• Individuals seeking diagnostic clarity for personal understanding
• Those needing documentation for work, education, or reasonable adjustments
• People who prefer not to wait for public healthcare assessments

Yes. Autism and ADHD commonly co-occur. You may choose:

• An Autism assessment only
• An ADHD assessment only
• A combined Autism and ADHD assessment

We will discuss your needs beforehand to recommend the most appropriate option.

Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition affecting social communication, sensory processing, and patterns of behaviour or interests. Autism presents differently in each individual and can be masked, especially in adults and women.

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by difficulties with attention, impulsivity, and/or hyperactivity. It can present as inattentive type, hyperactive-impulsive type, or combined type.

Yes. Autism and ADHD share overlapping traits such as executive functioning difficulties, sensory sensitivities, emotional regulation challenges, and social differences. A comprehensive assessment helps differentiate and identify both.

Assessments typically include:

• a detailed clinical interview
• developmental and personal history
• standardised diagnostic questionnaires
• behavioural and cognitive screening tools
• informant reports (e.g. from a partner, parent, or caregiver)

For Autism assessments, this will also include autism-specific tools such as structured observations.

This varies depending on the type of assessment.

• ADHD assessments usually take 1.5 to 3 hours
• Autism assessments take 1 hour for an observational appointment, or up to 3 hours for an informant interview
• Combined assessments may be longer and/or split across separate sessions

We will confirm timings in advance.

For adults, the assessments can be completed in person or online, depending on your personal preference.

For children undergoing an Autism assessment, the observational appointment must be completed in person. For children undergoing an ADHD assessment, this can be in person or online.

Options will be discussed during your initial consultation.

You may be asked to:

• complete questionnaires beforehand
• provide school reports or previous assessments (if available)
• invite someone who knows you well to complete an informant form, this should be someone familiar with your history such as a family member or long-term friend

You do not need to rehearse answers or “prove” anything, honesty is what matters most.

If you meet the diagnostic criteria under recognised guidelines (e.g. DSM-5 or ICD-11), a formal diagnosis will be provided. If you do not meet criteria, you will still receive clear feedback and explanations.

You will receive:

• a comprehensive written diagnostic report
• diagnostic conclusions and rationale
• practical recommendations and next steps

We can also provide a summary of your report, which are suitable for workplaces or educational institutions.

In most cases, yes. Employers and educational institutions typically accept private diagnostic reports, though policies vary. We recommend checking with the specific organisation.

Yes. With your consent, reports can be shared with your GP or other healthcare professionals.

No. The assessment itself does not include medication. If you receive an ADHD diagnosis, you will be advised on next steps and appropriate signposting.

Mind Professionals Neurodevelopmental Services do not currently offer therapy or coaching. If you do receive a diagnosis with us, we are typically able to signpost you to alternative providers.

Costs vary depending on the type and complexity of the assessment.

Typically included:

• all assessment sessions
• review of questionnaires and history
• diagnostic decision-making
• a full written report

No, Mind Professionals do not currently offer payment plans.

Private diagnoses are generally recognised, but acceptance depends on the organisation. They are not always sufficient for state-funded benefits or services, which may require public system assessments.

Yes. Child assessments often require parental involvement and school input.

This is dependent on the pathway.

We can assess from 2.5 years old for self-pay autism assessments, or 6 years old for self-pay ADHD assessments.

The Mid and South Essex framework for both Autism and ADHD is for children and young people aged from 6 to 18 years.

Yes. All information is handled in accordance with data protection and confidentiality regulations. Information is only shared with your consent.

This is completely normal. Many people find the process emotional or validating. The assessment is designed to be respectful, collaborative, and non-judgmental.

Masking is very common, especially in adults. The assessment process takes this into account and explores internal experiences, not just outward behaviour.

If you are unsure whether an assessment is right for you, or which option to choose, we encourage you to reach out for an initial consultation or enquiry. We are happy to help you decide the next step. Click here to contact the team.