Autism and ADHD Assessments

Private Autism and ADHD Assessments in The UK

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Helping You Understand, Navigate, and Thrive

At Total Health West Berkshire, we offer private Autism and ADHD assessments for both children and adults. Our goal is to provide clarity, understanding, and a structured path forward for you.

A formal diagnosis of Autism or ADHD can pave the way for educational support, workplace accommodations, and improved well-being. Whether you’re a parent seeking help for your child or an adult looking for answers, our GP-led team is here to support you.
“A formal diagnosis opens up pathways to personalised support in education, employment, and mental healthcare.”

What should I Expect from Autism and ADHD Assessments?

Our Autism and ADHD assessments are:

  • Thorough and evidence-based
  • Respectful, unrushed, and patient-centred
  • Designed to provide insight, not just labels
We use clinical interviews, developmental history, and validated tools to create a complete picture during the diagnosis. Every patient receives a comprehensive written report and recommendations for next steps.
Learn more about our specialist pages:

Why Get An Autism Or ADHD Assessment?

Why Seek An Autism Or ADHD Assessment For Children?

child suffering with autism adhd classroom teacher

Early diagnosis can make a world of difference. If your child is struggling socially, emotionally, or academically, an assessment may uncover the underlying reasons and open the door to effective support.

You might consider an assessment if your child:

  • Struggles to concentrate or stay on task
  • Shows impulsive or hyperactive behaviour
  • Has difficulty with social interaction, communication, or friendships
  • Exhibits distress with changes in routine
  • Seems overwhelmed in noisy or busy places

Benefits of early diagnosis:

  • Access to tailored support at school (NHS SEN Guidance link)
  • Reduced anxiety and better coping strategies
  • Improved family relationships and social skills

Explore our Autism Assessments for Children and ADHD Assessments for Children pages.

Why Get An Autism Or ADHD Assessment as an Adult?

adult distracted adhd and autism whilst working

Many adults come to us after years of feeling “different” or misunderstood. A diagnosis in adulthood can provide not only validation but real-world, practical strategies.

You may benefit from an assessment if you:

  • Struggle with focus, organisation, or time management
  • Find social interaction exhausting or confusing
  • Experience sensory sensitivities or burnout
  • Recognise traits of autism or ADHD in yourself

Benefits of diagnosis for adults:

  • Improved understanding of yourself and improved mental health
  • Access to workplace accommodations (ACAS Disability Support)
  • More supportive relationships at work and at home
  • Clearer strategies for coping with everyday life
Learn more on our Autism Assessments for Adults and ADHD Assessments for Adults pages.
Miriam Danso, Psychology Assistant, inviting visitors to get in touch to discuss autism or ADHD assessments
Get in touch today by calling or emailing, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Contact Miriam to Discuss Your Assessment

If you’d like to talk through the assessment process, have questions about which service is right for you, or simply want to understand what to expect, Miriam Danso, our Psychology Assistant, is here to help.

Miriam can guide you through the initial steps, explain how our assessments work, and ensure you feel comfortable and informed before booking.

The Assessment Process

Our process is structured to give you confidence:

1. Pre-assessment

Initial consultation and screening forms

2. Main assessment

Interviews, observations, and clinical tools

3. Feedback & report

A full diagnosis (if applicable) and tailored recommendations

4. Next steps

Guidance on treatment, school support, workplace adjustments, or therapy

N.B. For ADHD, we also provide a Titration Service for safe, supervised medication management

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does an Autism and ADHD assessment take?

Autism assessments usually take place across two sessions. ADHD assessments may take up to 4 hours, including breaks.

Can I have my Autism or ADHD assessment online?

Yes, we offer both in-person and online assessments for your convenience.

Will my Autism or ADHD diagnosis be recognised by the NHS?

Yes, our assessments are accepted across UK health, education, and workplace settings.

What’s the difference between Autism and ADHD assessments?

Autism assessments focus on communication, sensory processing, and social interaction, while ADHD assessments focus on attention, organisation, and impulsivity. Please note: some patients benefit from dual assessments.

What support is available after diagnosis of Autism or ADHD?

We provide signposted support, referrals, and resources. Helpful external organisations include:

Autism Support

  • National Autistic Society – The UK’s leading autism charity, offering information, services, and advocacy. autism.org.uk
  • Ambitious about Autism – Supports autistic children and young people through education, employment, and advocacy. ambitiousaboutautism.org.uk
  • Autism Alliance UK – A network of autism charities providing local and national support. autism-alliance.org.uk
  • Autistica – The UK’s autism research charity, also providing resources for families. autistica.org.uk

ADHD Support

  • ADHD UK – Advocacy, information and peer support for those with ADHD. adhduk.co.uk
  • ADHD Aware – Peer-led support groups and workplace training. adhdaware.org.uk
  • Centre for ADHD & Autism Support (CAAS) – Charity providing practical and emotional help for families. adhdandautism.org

Start Your Assessment Today

Take the first step towards clarity and support. Complete our short form and our team will be in touch.

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childrens adhd and autism assessment service private health clinic

Call us: 01635 791 301

Or visit our dedicated service pages:

Introducing Your Assessment Team

Dr Melanie Stevens, Consultant Clinical Neuropsychologist, smiling confidently in a professional portrait, representing over 20 years of expertise in neuropsychology, assessment, and clinical practice

Dr Melanie Stevens

Consultant Clinical Neuropsychologist

I am Dr Melanie Stevens, a Consultant Clinical Neuropsychologist. I have worked in psychological practice for over 22 years and completed my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology in 2006 and a Post Doctorate Diploma in Clinical Neuropsychology in 2012.

I am fully registered with the Health & Care Professionals Council and a Member of the Association of British Psychologists. I have an undergraduate, master’s degree, Doctorate in Clinical Psychology at Coventry & Warwick University and a Post Doctorate Diploma in Clinical Neuropsychology at Glasgow University. I was awarded my Consultant Grade in Clinical Psychology in 2012. I have various therapy training including EMDR to advanced level. I am trained and experienced in ADOS and ADI-R assessments, and expert witness training.

I have extensive experience in the assessment and treatment of complex psychological difficulties and neuropsychological challenges. This includes assessments of capacity, cognitive assessments, rehabilitation and adjustment. I have worked in inpatient acute units including NHS, outpatient departments and rehabilitation services. I have worked in brain injury hospitals, for example Walsgrave, and several independent inpatient and outpatient units, at senior Clinical Psychologist and Consultant Clinical Neuropsychologist level.

I have worked for the MOD in complex trauma, for example PTSD, and mental health. I have over 15 years’ experience providing ASD assessments for the NHS and various other providers, for children, adolescents and adults, with ages ranging from 4 years to 88 years. I have carried out various other professional/commercial presentations, including international presentations in China, South Africa as well as the UK, and publications during my career, including a book chapter, and have been involved in training on the doctorate program at Birmingham University.

 

 

 

Miriam Danso, Psychology Assistant at Total Health West Berkshire, smiling in a calm and professional setting

Miriam Danso

Psychology Assistant

Miriam is a Psychology Assistant supporting our Autism and ADHD service. She holds a Master of Science degree in Clinical Psychology from Royal Holloway, University of London, and is a Graduate Member of the British Psychological Society (BPS) as well as a member of the British Institute of Learning Disabilities (BILD).

Miriam has a strong background in child and adolescent mental health and has worked with diverse populations across different cultural, clinical, and community settings. She is particularly passionate about supporting neurodiverse children and young people, ensuring that each family feels respected, included, and empowered throughout the assessment process.

Beyond her clinical role, Miriam has led projects aimed at promoting mental health awareness, skills-building, and empowerment for young people in both the UK and Ghana. These experiences reflect her commitment to advocacy, education, and widening access to psychological support.

In her personal time, Miriam enjoys creative projects, exploring culture through books and art, and engaging in initiatives that celebrate diversity and inclusion. She brings warmth, strong organisational skills, and a collaborative spirit to the team, helping to provide a seamless and compassionate service to families.

Christina, Lead Occupational Therapist and Director of Therapies, smiling warmly in a professional portrait representing her dedication to supporting mental health and wellbeing

Christina Olabode

Autism Assessor

Christina completed her BSc Hons degree in Occupational Therapy in 2004. She continued her studies on the MA course in Psychoanalytical Observational Studies for Infants and Children at the Tavistock Centre for Psychoanalysis in London and the University of East London, acquiring her master’s degree.

Christina rapidly advanced in her career, working as a Lead Occupational Therapist and Director of Therapies for several years. She has also worked in Specialist Units, such as eating disorders and Personality Disorders, in both CAMHS and Adult Services.

Christina has held leadership positions as both a student and an employee, creating services that benefit all parties involved. She has a genuine interest in the well-being of people she is involved with, and her dedication is tangible on many levels of her work.

Her trademark is making a difference on all levels of people’s lives.

She has served as President of the Brunel Student Occupational Therapy Society in 2003/4 and was Co-Business Lead for RCOT CAMHS Specialist Services 2019.

Mette Whittaker

Gerard Alexander

Adult ADHD Assessor

I am an experienced Independent Nurse Prescriber with over 15 years of expertise in Adult Psychiatry, ADHD and Substance Misuse Services, across community and
prison settings.

My ADHD awakening journey began in 1996 when working as a Mental Health Specialist & Commissioning for Public Health, at a time when the DSM IV introduced
changes to its guidance.

I formalized my ADHD learning & training with ADHD360 under Dr Caroline Bleakley and updated it in 2025 with The Academy/Psych Scene.

I’ve completed over 700 assessments and 1,500 follow-ups, using evidence-based tools like ASRS, Barkley’s, & DIVA-5, and managing treatment transitions to GP care.

I’m experienced in prescribing stimulants (e.g.,
methylphenidate, amphetamines), non-stimulants (e.g., atomoxetine), and a broad range of psychotropics, including antidepressants, antipsychotics (including depot preparations), and addiction treatments (i.e. for licit and illicit substance use)

As a Clinical Lead, I’ve conducted comprehensive assessments, developed personalized care plans, and led mental health and substance misuse teams. I’m
registered for Private Controlled Drug prescribing and proficient in using diverse psychological assessment tools to deliver evidence-based, patient-centred care.

I am committed to advancing ADHD, mental health, and substance misuse services, improving outcomes, and making a meaningful difference to those I serve.

My supervisor is Dr Alan Ogilvie, Consultant Psychiatrist.

Registered Advanced Mental Health Practitioner and Cognitive Behavioural Therapist smiling in a professional setting, representing compassion, expertise, and a holistic approach to autism and ADHD assessment

Mootsoo Blankson

Autism & ADHD Assessor

I am a Registered Advanced Mental Health Practitioner, Cognitive Behavioural Therapist, and qualified Autism and ADHD Assessor with extensive experience in child, adolescent, and adult services. I have a BSc in Mental Health Nursing and a Postgraduate Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, alongside my BSc in Sociology and a certificate in Counselling.

 In 2012, I qualified as a Psychiatric Nurse and have since worked in the NHS with children adolescents, adults and older adults in both inpatient and community settings. I have also worked in high secure, medium secure and low secure inpatient settings as well as forensic psychiatric units. Since qualifying as a CBT Therapist in 2018, I have gained extensive experience working within the NHS, supporting adults, children, and adolescents. In addition to my therapeutic work, I have specialised in Autism and ADHD assessment for both children and adults. Over the years I have completed many training programmes both by the NHS and privately to enhance my knowledge, clinical skills and expertise in my professions.

Over this time, I have developed expertise and skills in Autism and ADHD assessments, working collaboratively within a multidisciplinary setting and working closely with families and schools to ensure the best possible outcome. I always maintain a compassionate and professional approach to my work from first contact, assessment, diagnosis, report writing, follow up, sign posting and onward support for families. I am passionate about providing a person centred, evidence based and holistic approach to meet the unique needs of my clients.

Outside of work, my favourite thing to do is spend time with my three daughters, and I enjoy baking and cooking, travelling, volunteering, working on my garden and spending time with friends. I am a big believer in looking after myself in order to give my best to others.