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ADHD and autism
ADHD and autism assessment
Neurodevelopmental assessment for children, young people and adults. This part of the service is in preparation and is not yet taking referrals.
Who the assessment is for
Children and young people
Assessment drawing on information from parents, carers and school, alongside direct observation of the child.
Adults
Assessment for adults who have never been assessed, including those who recognised traits later in life.
People already waiting
People who have been on an NHS waiting list and want to understand their difficulties sooner.
How the assessment works
Assessment follows a structured pathway so that the conclusion rests on more than one source of information. It is designed to be thorough without being an ordeal.
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Gathering information
Detailed history taken from the person being assessed and, where relevant, from parents, carers and school. Developmental history and current difficulties across different settings.
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Structured questionnaires
Recognised rating scales completed before the appointment, by the person themselves and by someone who knows them well.
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Clinical interview
A structured conversation covering symptoms, their history, their effect on daily life, and anything else that might explain them.
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Observation
Direct observation during the appointment. For younger children this includes play-based assessment, which lets the child show what a formal interview would miss.
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Bringing it together
All the information is reviewed together rather than any single score deciding the outcome. Co-occurring conditions are considered, not assumed away.
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Report and next steps
A written report setting out what was found, what it means, and what should happen next, shared with you and with your GP.
Screening, where a full assessment is not the right step yet
Not everyone needs a full diagnostic assessment straight away. A screening appointment produces a written account of your difficulties and a clear view on whether specialist assessment is warranted.
What screening includes
- Recognised screening questionnaires
- A structured clinical conversation
- A written summary of what was found
- A clear recommendation on whether to seek full assessment
What screening is not
Screening is not a diagnosis and does not result in a diagnosis of ADHD or autism. It cannot be used to start medication. It is a documented professional opinion that can support a referral, an education plan, or a request for workplace adjustments.
A calm place to be assessed
Assessment is harder when someone is overwhelmed before it starts. Bright lights, noise and unfamiliar rooms make it more difficult for a person to show how they actually think and behave.
Our rooms are set up to help people settle first: low lighting, quiet, and space to move if that helps. This is part of how the assessment is conducted rather than a separate service.
Where assessments take place
Assessment happens at our own rooms on Alexandra Road, and at our partner pharmacies, so people can be seen closer to home. Select a location to see it on the map.
After a diagnosis
Medication, where it is appropriate
Medication is only considered after a full assessment, never before. Prescribing at Mwanga is carried out by an independent nurse prescriber with specialist ADHD training, following NICE guidance.
Review and monitoring
Where medication is started, it is introduced gradually with regular review of response, side effects and physical health measurements.
Support that continues
A diagnosis is a starting point. We provide practical guidance for home, school and work, and remain available rather than discharging you the moment the report is written.
Common questions
Can I refer myself?
Adults can refer themselves, and parents or guardians can refer their child. A GP referral is not required for privately funded assessments.
Can my GP refer me?
Yes. GP referrals are accepted, with relevant clinical history included to support the assessment.
Can my child’s school make a referral?
Yes, we are open to referrals from SENCOs, teachers and school nurses, provided written consent has been obtained from the parent or guardian. Educational observations and reports can be included as useful supporting information.
Is the assessment free on the NHS?
No. Mwanga does not currently hold an NHS contract, so assessment will be privately funded. If that changes we will say so here.
What will it cost?
Please contact us for a quote. We will confirm the cost with you before you decide to proceed or make a booking.