Private Autism Assessment for Children

We provide private autism assessments for children through a multidisciplinary team approach, bringing together a Chartered Practitioner Psychologist with over 16 years’ experience across NHS and independent clinical practice, alongside a Speech and Language Therapist and an additional psychologist.

This approach allows us to build a fuller, more accurate understanding of your child by combining expertise across communication, development, cognition, and emotional well-being, ensuring that different perspectives inform the assessment rather than relying on a single viewpoint. Our assessments are designed to support a clear, balanced understanding of a child’s communication, social interaction, sensory experiences, and development, using recognised clinical frameworks and current best practice.

Each private child autism assessment is tailored to the child’s age, developmental stage, and individual needs, with careful consideration of their experiences at home, in education, and across everyday settings.

Professional Standards & Child-Centred Practice

Our child autism assessments follow recognised professional and regulatory standards, supporting ethical practice and a thoughtful, child-centred approach that takes account of each child’s communication style, experiences, and developmental needs.

Supporting Children

Through Understanding, Development, and Positive Change

Through our private child autism assessments, families gain a clearer understanding of their child’s strengths, differences, and individual ways of experiencing the world. This understanding can help parents and caregivers make informed, supportive decisions that promote confidence, development, and well-being over time.

Book a Child Autism Assessment

Use the form below to book a private child autism assessment and begin the assessment process.

How Much Does a Child’s Autism Assessment Cost?

Clinical Expertise in Child Autism Assessments

Child autism assessments at Assessing Neurodivergence UK are led by Dr Sara Dowsett, a Chartered Practitioner Psychologist registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). All assessments are carried out in line with recognised professional, clinical, and ethical standards.

Dr Dowsett holds a Doctorate in Psychology (PsychD), alongside an MSc, BSc (Hons), and Advanced Diploma, and has over 16 years’ experience working across NHS and independent settings. Her clinical background includes neurodevelopmental assessment within multidisciplinary teams, contributing to structured, evidence-based diagnostic pathways for children and young people.

Child autism assessments focus on understanding a child’s communication style, social development, sensory profile, play, learning patterns, and emotional regulation. Care is taken to explore developmental history and how autistic traits present across home and school environments.

Each assessment follows recognised clinical frameworks and incorporates established assessment tools. Reports are written to a formal clinical standard and provide clear diagnostic conclusions, along with practical, tailored recommendations to support learning, wellbeing, and day-to-day development.

Learn About Dr Sara Dowsett

The Child Autism Assessment Process

Step 1: Initial Consultation

This first appointment is held with Dr Sara Dowsett to explore your child’s current needs, developmental history, and any concerns you may have. This fee is deducted from the full assessment cost if you choose to proceed.
Following this meeting, you will receive a clear recommendation for one of the following pathways:

• Autism assessment
• ADHD assessment
• Combined autism and ADHD assessment

Step 2: Information Gathering

Once you decide to proceed, we begin gathering background information. Parents are sent questionnaires and forms to complete, and we will request information from other relevant professionals, such as teachers. You will also be invited to share any previous reports, assessments, or medical information that may help us build a full understanding of your child.

Step 3: Diagnostic Assessment Appointments

After all background information has been received, we will contact you to arrange the formal assessment sessions:

ADI-R Parent Interview

This is a detailed developmental interview completed with a clinician from our multidisciplinary team. It focuses on your child’s early development, communication, social interaction, and behaviour across different stages of childhood.

ADOS-2 In-Person Observation

This clinic appointment is carried out by Jacki Goldsmith, Speech and Language Therapist, as part of the multidisciplinary assessment team. Your child will take part in structured, play-based activities that allow us to observe communication, social understanding, and interaction style. Sessions are child-led and designed to feel relaxed, supportive, and comfortable. Parents are invited in afterwards to ask questions and discuss next steps.

Step 4: Multidisciplinary Team Review

All assessment information is carefully reviewed together, including questionnaires, reports, the ADI-R interview, and the ADOS-2 observation. Dr Dowsett and the additional assessing clinicians meet as a multidisciplinary team to discuss findings and reach a diagnostic decision.

Step 5: Feedback Appointment and Report

You will be invited to a feedback session where we explain the outcome of the assessment clearly and sensitively. We will talk through your child’s strengths, needs, and recommended supports, and answer any questions you may have.

Within three weeks of the feedback session, you will receive a detailed written report by email. This document outlines the assessment process, findings, diagnostic outcome, and personalised recommendations. You can share this report with schools, healthcare professionals, or other services involved in your child’s care.

Can’t find the answer you’re looking for?
You can find answers to common queries about the child autism assessments and the process in the Frequently Asked Questions section.

Feedback from Parents

Feedback from parents who have completed an assessment for their child with us.

Child Autism Assessment Feedback

“All of the appointments were calm, child‑centred, and clearly explained. Dr Dowsett made my son feel comfortable throughout and was excellent at normalising the assessment and diagnosis process, helping my son feel that nothing was “wrong” and that they were simply being understood. Overall, it was a very reassuring and positive experience and I would recommend Dr Dowsett to any family.”

Gabrielle, Bournemouth.

Child Autism Assessment Feedback

“We had a very positive experience throughout the assessment. Dr Dowsett was helpful, knowledgeable, and took time to really understand our child. Everything was explained clearly, and the report was thorough. We finally feel we have answers and a clear way forward.”

Ben, Hampshire.

Child Autism Assessment FAQ

Guidance for parents on the child autism assessment process and what each stage involves.

How much is a private autism assessment for a child

The initial assessment costs £150. If you choose to proceed, the remaining cost for the full child autism assessment is £1,950.

How to get a child assessed for autism

In the UK, parents can ask their GP to refer a child for an NHS autism assessment. Schools or health professionals may also suggest referral pathways depending on the child’s needs. Waiting times for NHS assessments can be lengthy.

If you would prefer to explore a private route, you can book an initial child autism assessment directly with Assessing Neurodivergence UK.

The initial assessment lasts up to 1 hour and focuses on understanding your child’s developmental history, current presentation, and any concerns raised at home or at school. By the end of the appointment, a clear recommendation will be made regarding whether a full autism assessment is appropriate.

If a full assessment is not indicated, you will receive a written summary along with guidance on alternative support or next steps.

How to prepare a child for an autism assessment

It can help to explain the appointment in simple, reassuring terms. You might describe it as a chance to talk about how your child thinks, learns, and experiences the world.
Children do not need to “study” or practise for the assessment. The process is not a test, and there are no right or wrong answers.

Bringing a familiar object, favourite toy, or comfort item can help your child feel more relaxed. Ensuring they are well-rested and have eaten beforehand can also support a smoother experience.
Parents may find it helpful to bring any relevant reports, school feedback, or previous assessments to share during the appointment.

Enquire Today

Take the Next Step with a Child Autism Assessment

Contact us to book a private child autism assessment and take the next step toward clarity, understanding, and practical support for your child.

Get Started

Private Autism Assessment for Children

Professional Standards & Child-Centred Practice

Supporting Children

Through Understanding, Development, and Positive Change

Book a Child Autism Assessment

How Much Does a Child’s Autism Assessment Cost?

INITIAL CHILD AUTISM ASSESSMENT

FULL CHILD AUTISM ASSESSMENT

Clinical Expertise in Child Autism Assessments

The Child Autism Assessment Process

Step 1: Initial Consultation

Step 2: Information Gathering

Step 3: Diagnostic Assessment Appointments

Step 4: Multidisciplinary Team Review

Step 5: Feedback Appointment and Report

Feedback from Parents

Child Autism Assessment Feedback

Child Autism Assessment Feedback

Child Autism Assessment FAQ

Take the Next Step with a Child Autism Assessment