How our Autism and ADHD assessments work

At Mind Professionals Neurodevelopmental Service, we aim to make the assessment process clear, supportive, and clinically thorough. Our experienced clinicians take time to understand each individual’s history, experiences, and strengths so that any diagnostic decision is careful, evidence-based, and meaningful.

We understand that starting an assessment can feel like a big step. Our role is to guide you through the process clearly and supportively, ensuring you know what to expect at every stage.

Below is an overview of the typical stages involved in the assessment process.

Before your assessment

Step 1: Screening

The first stage is a screening process designed to help identify whether a full diagnostic assessment may be appropriate. You will be asked to complete screening questionnaires and provide some initial information about you, or your child’s experiences or concerns. These screening tools help our clinical team understand whether traits associated with Autism, ADHD, or both may be present and whether a diagnostic assessment would be helpful.

Step 2: Information gathering

Before the assessment appointment, we gather background information to help our clinicians build a fuller understanding of your, or your child’s experiences. This may include questionnaires completed by you, a parent or carer, and sometimes someone who knows you well. Autism and ADHD are neurodevelopmental conditions that begin in childhood, understanding early development can be an important part of the assessment. If this information is not available, please do not worry. Our clinicians are experienced in gathering developmental history in different ways and will work with you to understand your experiences as fully as possible.

Your assessment

Step 3: Diagnostic assessment appointment

The diagnostic assessment is carried out by an appropriately qualified clinician, such as a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist with specialist experience in neurodevelopmental assessment.

During the appointment, the clinician will explore your, or your child’s, experiences in detail and ensure you have time to explain what life has been like for you. Our aim is that individuals feel heard, understood, and supported throughout the process.

The clinician will consider all the information gathered and assess it against recognised diagnostic frameworks and NICE guidance to consider whether your experiences are consistent with recognised diagnostic criteria for Autism, ADHD, or both.

After your assessment

Step 4: Diagnostic report

Following the assessment, you will receive a comprehensive written report explaining the assessment process, the information considered, and the clinical conclusions reached. Reports are written in clear, accessible language and include recommendations and guidance for next steps where appropriate. With your consent, the report can be shared with your GP, school, or other relevant professionals.

A diagnosis is not the only helpful outcome of an assessment. Many individuals and families find that the assessment process itself provides valuable understanding, clarity, and guidance for next steps.

Step 5: Guidance and next steps

After the assessment, our team will help you understand the outcome and what support options may be available. This may include practical strategies, signposting to services, or guidance on discussing treatment or support with your GP or other professionals. Whether or not a diagnosis is confirmed, our aim is that individuals and families leave the assessment with greater understanding and clarity about possible next steps.

Who will be involved in your assessment

Assessments at Mind Professionals Neurodevelopmental Services are carried out by experienced clinicians with specialist training in neurodevelopmental assessment. This may include clinical psychologists, psychiatrists, and other appropriately qualified professionals working in line with NICE guidance and recognised diagnostic frameworks.

How long the process usually takes

The length of the assessment process can vary depending on the type of assessment and the information required. Once screening and background information have been completed, the diagnostic assessment appointment is arranged. After the appointment, the written diagnostic report is usually provided within two weeks.