How long does the whole autism assessment process take?
Autism Assessment Process Hertford. Here at Private Child Autism Assment, we do not currently have a waiting list for autism assessments. This means that we can begin working with your family immediately.
We know that the NHS waiting lists for autism assessments are unfortunately very long in many areas. We also know that timely assessment and diagnosis is very important.
Autism Assessment Process – Screening
The first stage is the screening process, whereby we send you two questionnaires to complete about your child. One of the questionnaires gathers general information about your concerns and some personal details. The other one is a multiple-choice questionnaire with asks about autistic traits. We also usually (with your consent) send two similar questionnaires to your child’s school.
Clinical Psychologist Review
When we have received the questionnaires back, one of our Clinical Psychologists will review them. They will let you know whether we feel it is appropriate to proceed. If so, we aim to offer the developmental history appointment within a couple of weeks. This appointment takes place remotely with one of our Clinical Psychologists. It lasts for about two hours.
Face-to-Face Autism Assessment
Next, we book in a face-to-face appointment with one of our other clinicians. This appointment is typically offered 1-3 weeks after the initial appointment. It lasts for about one hour. Following this, the two professionals will have a meeting to discuss the findings.
Sometimes other professionals will join the meeting. An outcome will usually be agreed upon during the meeting. The report will then be finalised and sent to you.
Autism Assessment Report
We aim to send the final report within 6-8 weeks of the initial appointment. Often it can be sent earlier than this.
Occasionally we may need to observe your child in school, to reach a final decision. This can take a little longer to organise (especially if this is decided during the school holidays).
Autism Assessment Private Health Insurance
If you are accessing the autism assessment through private health insurance, please be aware that it can take a little longer to start the process. Please see our blog on this for more information.
You can also request a feedback appointment with the Clinical Psychologist within 4 weeks of receiving the report.
If you have any questions, or would like to request an assessment please fill in our Contact Form . Furthermore, If you have any immediate questions, you may find them on or FAQ page.
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