Child Autism Assessments in the UK

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.

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.

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.