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Welcome

 

Welcome to CADS Autism & ADHD (Clinical Autism and ADHD Diagnostic service), your trusted source for private Autism and ADHD assessments in Market Harborough, serving families across Leicestershire, Northamptonshire, surrounding areas and UK wide.

We understand the challenges of long NHS waiting times, which is why we offer fast access to thorough, compassionate ADHD assessments for both children and adults, typically within just a few weeks.

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Our HCPC-registered Clinical Psychologist, Speech and Language Therapist and Mental Health Nurse bring professional expertise and warmth, delivering assessments fully compliant with NICE guidelines and NHS, recognised for EHCPs.

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Whether you prefer in-person or online Gold Standard Autism / ADHD assessment throughout the UK, we are here to provide a supportive, reassuring experience tailored to your needs.

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CADS new Logo Jan26
CADS Autism-Clinical Autism Diagnostic Services

FAQ -Are your assessments supported by the NHS and Education Settings?

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Answer - Yes, our assessments are supported by both the NHS and education settings. We use gold-standard tools, for autism and evidence-based ADHD assessments, and our detailed reports are widely accepted to support diagnoses, EHCP applications, and access to appropriate support.

Our Ethos

We take a neuro-affirming and strengths-based approach. This means we do not view autism or ADHD as something to be “fixed”, but as differences in how a person experiences and processes the world.

 

Many people come to assessment after a long period of uncertainty, self-doubt or feeling misunderstood, and a key aim is to provide clarity and understanding.

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We value collaboration with families, young people and adults and recognise that you are the experts in your own experiences. We also work constructively with schools, colleges and workplaces where appropriate so that recommendations are practical and meaningful.

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Our goal is not only to consider diagnosis, but to help individuals and those around them better understand their profile of strengths and needs and to identify supportive next steps.

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Reassurance about the assessment

It is very common to feel unsure about seeking an assessment. Many people worry that they may be overreacting, that difficulties are “not significant enough”, or that the process will be uncomfortable.

Assessments at CADS are conversational and supportive rather than a test to pass or fail. There are no trick questions and no expectation to perform in a particular way. We aim to create a calm environment where individuals can communicate in a way that feels natural to them.

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Whether or not diagnostic criteria are met, the outcome is always a detailed explanation. Families and adults receive clear feedback and a written report outlining strengths, areas of difference and practical recommendations. Many people tell us that understanding why things have felt difficult is just as helpful as receiving a diagnosis.

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You are also welcome to speak with a clinician before arranging an assessment if you would like to talk through whether it would be helpful.

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Talk to a clinician

Our Approach

At CADS we aim to understand the whole person, not just whether a checklist is met. Our assessments follow recognised national guidance and are completed by a multidisciplinary team including a Speech & Language Therapist and Clinical Psychologist. We combine structured assessment tools with detailed developmental history and information from everyday settings such as home, education or work.

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We recognise that many individuals, particularly girls, older children and adults, may mask or cope well in some environments while struggling in others. For this reason we look carefully at patterns over time rather than relying on a single observation. Our focus is on understanding how communication, attention, sensory processing and social demands affect daily life.

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The assessment process is paced to be supportive and respectful, with opportunities to ask questions and discuss concerns throughout.

Expert Autism and ADHD Assessments at CADS Autism

At CADS Autism, we provide high-quality, multidisciplinary assessments for autism and ADHD, designed to support children, young people, adults and their families every step of the way.

A Trusted Multi-Disciplinary Team

Our assessments are carried out by an experienced team, including:

  • Clinical Psychologist

  • Speech and Language Therapist

  • Mental Health Nurse trained as a Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist

 

We offer assessments from the age of 3 years old upwards. For clients under 18, all three clinicians are actively involved in the assessment process, bringing deep expertise from NHS autism centres and private practice.

Following Best Practice Guidelines

We are committed to delivering the highest standards of care:

  • We strictly follow NICE guidelines for Autism and ADHD assessments.

  • All our clinicians are registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

  • CADS Autism offers Gold Standard Assessments.

  • Our assessments are recognised by the NHS and EHCP.

  • We maintain the highest levels of professionalism, ethics, and clinical quality.

Fast, Flexible Assessment Appointments

We understand that timely support matters. That's why we offer:

  • First appointments scheduled within a few weeks of your initial contact

  • Weekend and evening slots available to suit busy school and work schedules

  • Face-to-face or virtual assessments across the UK

Comprehensive Reports and Support

After the assessment, you will receive:

  • A detailed, personalised report covering autism and/or ADHD findings

  • Clear signposting to appropriate support services and next steps

  • Identification of other neurodevelopmental conditions, with full reporting and referrals if needed

Personalised Care, Every Step of the Way

At CADS Autism, we are passionate about empowering individuals and families. Our goal is to make the autism and ADHD journey clear, supportive, and tailored to your needs.

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Ready to take the first step? Contact CADS Autism for expert, compassionate assessments.​

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Meet The Team

Astrid van Wilsem CADS Autism

Dr. Astrid van Wilsem

Clinical Psychologist

HCPC Registered

Tania Richards CADS Autism

Tania Richards

Speech and Language Therapist

HCPC Registered

Alex CADS Autism

Alex Centurion-Eyre

Specialist High intensity Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist 
Registered Mental Health Nurse (Clinical Nurse Specialist Neurodevelopment)

HCPC Registered

Fees and practical arrangements

We understand that choosing to pursue a private assessment is a significant decision for families and adults, and many people understandably want to know what is involved before making contact.

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Our assessments are completed over stages rather than a single appointment. This allows time to gather background information, carry out structured assessment activities, and provide clear feedback and written recommendations.

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Fees vary depending on the type of assessment required (autism, ADHD or combined assessment). We are happy to explain the process and costs in advance so that you can make an informed decision without any obligation to proceed.

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Many families and adults find it helpful to speak with a clinician first to discuss whether an assessment would be appropriate and what it would involve. Following this conversation, we provide clear written information about fees and the assessment process before any appointments are arranged.

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Payment is typically arranged in stages across the assessment process rather than all at once, to make planning easier.

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If you would like to talk through your situation, you are very welcome to contact us for an initial discussion.

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Talk to a clinician

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