Assessments

  • Development

    Delayed development

  • Behaviour

    Concerns about behaviour

  • Learning

    Difficulties with Learning

  • ASD

    Autism Spectrum Disorder

  • FASD

    Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder

  • ADHD

    Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

  • DCD

    Developmental coordination disorder

What happens at an assessment?

  • The consulting rooms are a relaxed and homely environment. The lighting is soft and the environment is calm and contemporary. Its very unlike a trip to the doctors; yet within the environment there is everything needed to complete a comprehensive assessment.

  • You will be welcomed in to the consulting rooms and given time to relax and make yourselves comfortable. At the start of the assessment a plan is made as to how it is going to run making sure everyone is comfortable.

  • The assessment usually begins with talking to the child and understanding their perspective, this is always done in an age appropriate way and senstitive way, and with their parent or carers agreement about what is discussed and disclosed. All of your concerns are discussed and documented, and further questions will be assessed to ensure all the required information is gathered.

  • The child is given as much control as possible, after all the assessment is about them and for them. Sometimes the assessments can feel a bit negative as the focus will often come round to a childs difficulties. If possible its often worth bringing two adults to allow the child with you to have time out of the room as needed.

  • There is usually a short physical examination that will be tailored according to concerns discussed. Its usually fun and the child is in control. They can listen to their heart, or yours! Have their height and weight measured, their reflexes tested which usually makes everyone laugh.

  • At this point Dr Mills will summarise what has been discussed and start making recommendations about what further assessments or diagnostic tests are required. The benefits and drawbacks of the recommendations can be discussed and a sensible plan created.

“When it appears a child is displaying the signs or symptoms of a particular condition the most up to date national and international guidelines or diagnostic criteria are used for diagnosis.

This means the end opinion is robust and reliable. It does meant that not all children will reach the required threshold for a diagnosis. However, recognising the route of difficulties can mean the right support is still put in place.”

— Dr Sarah Mills

Following the assessment…

  • A full report will be compiled following the appointment. This is usually available within 10 days of the appointment, it will be sent to you via secure email link. Sometimes reports may be delayed if crucial information from other professionals involved with your child is required to complete the report and may lead to some delays. This is sometimes necessary to ensure the report is accurate and comprehnesive

  • You will be given control over organising the recommended further assessments or diagnostic tests to suit your child and timescales

  • When you leave your appointment you will have discussed when a follow up appointment will be required and the plan for that appointment

Most families require at least an initial consultation, further assessments and a follow up appointment.

Other considerations:

  • Further consultations and assessments with associated specialists will attract their own fees

  • Blood tests may be recommended and these can be arranged at a separate clinic through one of our carefully selected partners

  • If you wish to have a telephone or video consultation about your concerns, without your child present, this can be arranged prior to the intial appointment for a separate fee

  • Telephone or video follow up consultations are possible