Top 5 Things to Look for When Choosing a Private ADHD or Autism Assessment Provider

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Top 5 Things to Look for When Choosing a Private ADHD or Autism Assessment Provider

16 / Jun

Here are the top 5 things to look for when choosing a private ADHD or autism assessment provider to ensure quality, professionalism, and value for your time and money:

 

  1. Clinician Qualifications and Expertise

Ensure the professionals conducting the assessment are appropriately qualified, such as:

  • Chartered Clinical Psychologists
  • Consultant Psychiatrists
  • Specialist Nurses / Social Workers
  • Registered Neurodevelopmental Specialists

 

Look for:

  • Accreditation with relevant professional bodies (e.g. HCPC, GMC, BPS in the UK).
  • Specific experience in ADHD and/or autism across the age group you’re interested in (e.g. children, adults).

📝 Tip: Ask if the clinician has conducted diagnostic assessments in NHS settings or has published work in the area.

 

  1. Diagnostic Tools and Guidelines Used

Check if the provider uses validated, evidence-based tools and follows recognised diagnostic frameworks, such as:

  • DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders)
  • Tools like:
    • ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule)
    • ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised)
    • QBCheck/QbTest or Conners questionnaires for ADHD

 

Ask about their assessment structure:

  • Do they include observations, interviews, and questionnaires?
  • Is input from family members or teachers incorporated?

 

  1. Report Quality and Post-Diagnostic Support

A good provider offers a comprehensive written report that:

  • Details the assessment process and observations
  • Explains how the diagnosis (or lack thereof) was reached
  • Includes tailored recommendations for support and strategies

 

Also check:

  • Do they offer post-diagnostic follow-up or referrals?
  • Is the report suitable for school, workplace, or legal accommodations?

 

  1. NHS and Educational Recognition

Not all private assessments are accepted by the NHS, schools, or local authorities. Look for:

  • Providers who meet NHS-equivalent standards
  • Evidence that their reports are typically accepted by:
    • GPs and CAMHS services
    • Schools/colleges/universities
    • Workplace accommodations under the Equality Act

📝 Tip: Ask if the provider has had success with EHCP applications or Access to Work reports.

 

  1. Transparency, Wait Times, and Costs

Check how transparent the provider is about:

  • Total costs (including hidden fees for reports or follow-ups)
  • Timeframes for the assessment and report delivery
  • Booking process (e.g. are there pre-assessment screenings or triage?)

 

Also consider:

  • How long is the waiting list compared to others?