Self-pay assessments
Self-pay assessments offer a way to access Autism and ADHD assessments privately, without relying on NHS referral routes or local commissioning arrangements.
At Mind Professionals Neurodevelopmental Service, self-pay services are delivered to the same clinical standards used across NHS-commissioned pathways and are carried out by appropriately qualified clinicians.
Self-pay is an optional route and may be suitable where NHS pathways are not available, eligibility criteria are not met, or where families or adults prefer to arrange an assessment independently.
Who self-pay assessments are for
Self-pay assessments may be appropriate if you:
- Want to access an assessment without waiting for NHS pathways
- Are not currently eligible for an NHS-funded route
- Prefer to arrange an assessment independently of your GP
Self-pay assessments are available for:
- Children and young people
- Adults
A GP referral is not required for self-pay assessments
Conditions we assess
Through our self-pay pathway, we provide assessments for:
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
Autism affects how a person communicates, interacts socially, and experiences the world. It is a spectrum, meaning individuals may have very different strengths and challenges.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
ADHD affects attention, activity levels, and impulse control. It can present differently in children, young people, and adults.
Combined Autism and ADHD
Some individuals meet criteria for both conditions. Where appropriate, we offer combined assessments to provide a clearer, joined-up understanding. Combined assessments are completed as two separate assessments, one for Autism and one for ADHD.
Children, young people and adults
Children and young people
Self-pay assessments for children and young people:
- Are available for Autism, ADHD, and combined assessments
- Gather information from parents or carers, schools, and the child (where appropriate)
- Are carried out by clinicians experienced in working with children and young people
- Result in reports written to support understanding at home and in education settings
Adults
Self-pay assessments for adults:
- Are available for Autism, ADHD, and combined assessments
- Focus on how neurodevelopmental differences may affect work, relationships, daily life, and wellbeing
- Include clear explanation of outcomes and recommended next steps
What a self-pay assessment includes
While the exact process depends on the type of assessment, self-pay assessments typically include:
- Review of background information and history
- Standardised questionnaires and rating scales
- A comprehensive clinical assessment
- Diagnostic decision-making in line with NICE guidance and recognised criteria
- A written diagnostic report explaining:
- The assessment outcome
- How conclusions were reached
- Recommendations and next steps
Reports are written in clear, accessible language and are suitable for sharing with GPs, schools, and other professionals (with consent).
Quality and clinical standards
All self-pay assessments at Mind Professionals:
- Are delivered by appropriately trained and qualified clinicians
- Follow NICE guidance for Autism and ADHD
- Use recognised diagnostic frameworks (DSM-5 / ICD-11)
- Are consistent with the standards used across NHS services
Choosing a self-pay route does not mean compromising on clinical quality or rigour.
After your assessment
Following a self-pay assessment, we will:
- Explain the outcome clearly and sensitively
- Provide guidance on next steps and support options
- Signpost to appropriate services, resources, or strategies
For ADHD assessments, recommendations may include:
- Non-medication approaches
- Signpost to appropriate services, resources, or strategies
Please note that ongoing NHS treatment or prescribing depends on local NHS arrangements and GP agreement.
Booking a self-pay assessment
Self-pay assessments do not require a GP referral and can be booked directly with our team.
Alternatively, you can start the process today, by completing a pre-assessment form, and a member of our team will be in touch with you soon to confirm the most appropriate assessment.