What to Expect During an Assessment
The assessment process for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) involves multiple steps and professionals working together to create a comprehensive picture of your functioning.
Healthcare professionals who might be involved in referral or the assessment process. This is different in every county across the UK.
- GP or School: Often the first point of contact who can provide referrals to the autism / ADHD assessment pathway
- Developmental Paediatrician: Specialises in child development and conditions (for children)
- Speech & Language therapist: Assesses communication abilities, more common in autism assessments
- Occupational Therapist: Assesses sensory processing and functional skills for daily living
- Psychiatrist: Medical doctor specialising in mental health conditions
- Psychologist: Specialising in behaviour, development, cognitive skills and mental health. Every child’s autism assessment needs to be reviewed by a doctor which may include a clinical psychologist
- Health Visitor: Advice, Support and developmental checks for children based at GP surgery
- Specialist Teacher: Specialising in neurodivergent conditions in school settings
Some Common Assessment Methods in the UK
For Autism:
- Comprehensive interviews about developmental history
- Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2) which is a semi-structured, standardised assessment
- Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R)
- Sensory profile assessments
- Speech, language and communication assessments
- Observation in different environments; home, school (or club), clinic
For ADHD:
Clinical interviews covering symptom history and impact
ADHD rating scales & tests (e.g., Qb test, DISCO, Conners, ASRS, etc.)
Review of school/academic records
Feedback from family members, partners, or teachers
Medical examination to rule out other conditions
For Both:
Possible cognitive tests
Assessment of daily living skills
Screening for co-occurring conditions
Review of medical history
What to bring to your assessments if they have not already been shared
- Medical records and previous assessment reports
- School records, report cards, and EHCP (if applicable)
- Notes or observations about developmental milestones and concerns
- Examples of behaviours or challenges you or your child is experiencing
- List of current medications
- Family history of relevant conditions
The assessment process typically takes several appointments spread over weeks or even months, with each session lasting 1-3 hours.