Autism Assessment (Children & Young People)

Autism Assessments at CADS

Autism assessments at CADS are carried out by Tania Richards (Speech and Language Therapist) and Dr Astrid van Wilsem (Clinical Psychologist) using a gold-standard, multidisciplinary approach.

The autism assessment pathway includes:

Parent/carer referral and developmental history
Autism Diagnostic Interview – Revised (ADI-R)
A detailed 3-hour structured interview completed online with Dr Astrid van Wilsem
Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2)
A 1–1.5 hour observational assessment completed by Tania Richards (face-to-face preferred, online possible)
School or setting feedback (where applicable)
Multidisciplinary diagnostic review
Feedback appointment and comprehensive written report

Assessments are tailored to the child or young person’s age, communication profile, and individual needs.

Dual Autism & ADHD Assessments

Dual Autism & ADHD Assessments (Child & Young Person)

Many children, young people, and adults present with overlapping autistic and ADHD traits. CADS offers combined autism and ADHD assessments, allowing both profiles to be explored within a single, integrated process.

A dual assessment includes:

Full autism assessment pathway (ADI-R, ADOS-2, school feedback)
ADHD-specific clinical interview (e.g. Young DIVA)
Additional observation and interview focusing on attention, regulation, and executive functioning
ADHD rating scales completed across settings
Multidisciplinary team diagnostic formulation

This approach reduces duplication, supports diagnostic clarity, and provides a joined-up understanding of strengths and support needs.

Fees & Timeframes

Fees

Autism Assessment: £2,000
ADHD Assessment: £1,300
Combined Autism & ADHD Assessment: £2,900

All fees include the full assessment process, feedback appointment, and detailed written diagnostic report.

Timeframes

We are currently booking assessments for March 2026 as referrals are received. Where possible, information gathering begins in advance, with final outcomes typically provided within 1–2 weeks of the final assessment session.

Not sure whether to refer?

You are not alone.

Most people who contact us are not certain whether they are looking at autism, ADHD, or both. Many families worry they must first “work it out” before making contact. You do not. In fact, trying to decide alone is often the hardest part.

At CADS, the first step is not booking an assessment.
The first step is understanding whether an assessment would be helpful and which pathway would be most appropriate.

When parents contact us, they often say:

“Something has never quite added up.”
“School says anxiety, but it feels deeper.”
“They cope all day and collapse at home.”
“They’re bright but struggling.”
“I relate to my child more than I expected.”

What happens when you enquire?

We will:

Review the information you provide
Ask some screening questions
Identify whether autism, ADHD or a combined pathway should be considered
Advise honestly whether assessment is recommended

There is no obligation and no pressure to proceed.

Sometimes families simply need clarity and reassurance — and that is absolutely appropriate.