Some common questions and answers
What assessments does CADS offer for autism, ADHD, and other neurodevelopmental conditions?
CADS provides autism assessments, ADHD assessments, dual assessments, speech and language therapy, specialist psychology and multidisciplinary support.
How do I know if I or my child needs an autism or ADHD assessment?
If you experience long-standing differences in communication, attention, regulation, organisation, routines, or sensory processing that affect daily life, an assessment may help understanding and support.
What is the difference between an NHS assessment and a private assessment at CADS?
NHS assessments are free but often have long waiting lists. CADS provides fast, detailed, NICE-aligned assessments with multidisciplinary input and comprehensive recommendations.
What is an adult autism or ADHD assessment at CADS?
Adult assessments include a diagnostic interview, developmental history, ADOS-2, ADHD tools, and a personalised clinical formulation, with a full written report and recommendations.
What are the signs of co-occurring ADHD in autistic people?
These may include difficulties maintaining focus, impulsivity, distractibility, executive functioning differences, hyperactivity, internal restlessness, and challenges switching attention.
Can ADHD and autism occur together?
Yes. Both conditions frequently co-occur, and CADS assesses them together to provide a clear diagnostic profile.
How do I know if I am autistic as an adult?
Adults often notice lifelong patterns in communication, sensory processing, social understanding, routines, and burnout that prompt assessment. CADS offers adult-friendly pathways.
Can assessments be done online or do they need to be face-to-face?
CADS offers both options. Many adult and some child components can be completed online, while ADOS-2 sessions for children under the age of 11 typically take place face-to-face.
How can I explain autism or ADHD to my child?
Use simple, positive language that focuses on strengths and differences. CADS provides child-friendly resources to support these discussions and some of these can be found on our website.
Where can I find a fast autism and ADHD assessment in the Midlands?
CADS provides fast autism and ADHD assessments across the Midlands, including Leicestershire, Northamptonshire, Warwickshire, and surrounding areas.
How long is the waiting list at CADS?
CADS offers short waiting times, with appointments typically available within weeks rather than months or years.
What areas of the UK does CADS serve?
CADS serves Leicestershire, Northamptonshire, the Midlands, and wider UK clients through online assessments, reports, and therapeutic support.
How much does a private autism or ADHD assessment cost?
Pricing varies depending on whether the assessment is for a child, adult, autism, ADHD, or dual pathway. CADS provides clear pricing on request and on the website.
Where can I find a fast autism and ADHD assessment accepted by NHS and Education services in Leicestershire and Northamptonshire?
CADS assessments follow NICE guidance and are widely accepted by GPs, schools, Local Authorities, and NHS services.