30-Minute & 1-Hr Sessions With a Fully Qualified & Insured Neurodiverse Counsellor
Thinking of Diagnosis ?
If you’re exploring the possibility of an Autism and/or ADHD diagnosis, there are several routes available — both free and private. It’s important to take your time, and research the professionals you choose to work with.
Many people feel more comfortable seeking an assessment through services led by neurodivergent professionals, as they often bring a deeper, lived understanding of neurodivergent experiences.
Be mindful that some clinicians may still use outdated or narrow criteria; often based on stereotypical presentations, such as those of young Autistic boys. This can mean that some people, especially women or late-diagnosed adults, may not always be recognised within traditional systems. Taking the time to find someone informed for example, in the later diagnosis of women, can make a real difference to your experience.
What are my options?
NHS
Clinical vs. Non-Clinical Autism Assessments
Right to Choose
You can request an NHS assessment by speaking with your GP, who can refer you to a local diagnostic service. Waiting times can vary, but assessments are free of charge.
Right to Choose
Clinical vs. Non-Clinical Autism Assessments
Right to Choose
In England, the NHS Right to Choose allows you to select your preferred provider for an Autism or ADHD assessment. This can be especially helpful if local NHS waiting times are long. To access this option, you’ll need a referral from your GP, and you can choose from any provider with an approved NHS contract.
Clinical vs. Non-Clinical Autism Assessments
Clinical vs. Non-Clinical Autism Assessments
Clinical vs. Non-Clinical Autism Assessments
If you’re exploring whether you might be autistic, it can help to know the different types of assessments available.
Clinical Assessments: Carried out by healthcare professionals, these can provide an official diagnosis, which may help you access NHS support or accommodations.
Non-Clinical Assessments: Offered by trained specialists or ne
If you’re exploring whether you might be autistic, it can help to know the different types of assessments available.
Clinical Assessments: Carried out by healthcare professionals, these can provide an official diagnosis, which may help you access NHS support or accommodations.
Non-Clinical Assessments: Offered by trained specialists or neurodivergent professionals, these provide insight and understanding into your experiences, even if they don’t give a formal medical diagnosis. Often a more affordable option and uses less deficit-focused language.
Both types of assessment can be valuable, depending on your needs and the kind of support you’re looking for.
Hendrickx Associates
Berkeley Psychiatrists
Clinical vs. Non-Clinical Autism Assessments
Sarah Hendrickx completed my non-clinical Autism assessment. It is now also her daughter, Jess, who carries out the assessments.
Berkeley Psychiatrists
Berkeley Psychiatrists
Berkeley Psychiatrists
Dr Hearfield is a Consultant Psychiatrist and carried out my ADHD assessment. She has a particular interest in Autism and ADHD, holding a particular interest in exploring the symptoms of ADHD in women.
