Understanding your child, one step at a time
We offer a thorough, neuroaffirmative autism assessment for children and young people aged 6–17 years. Our aim is to help families develop a deeper understanding of their child's individual profile, with thoughtful feedback and practical recommendations for what comes next.
Considering an autism assessment
Families come to us for many reasons — perhaps you've noticed your child experiences, communicates or interacts with the world differently, or they've begun asking questions themselves.
An autism assessment can help you better understand your child's individual way of thinking, communicating and relating to others.
Sometimes the possibility of autism is first raised by a parent, teacher or another professional. At other times, a family may simply feel that there is more to understand about their child's experiences.
Families may consider an assessment when they are noticing differences in areas such as:
- Communication and social interaction
- Sensory experiences and preferences
- A strong need for predictability or routine
- Focused or passionate interests
- Experiences at school or with peers
- Emotional regulation or feeling overwhelmed
What to expect from an autism assessment
Our autism assessments are for children and young people aged 6–17 years and are carried out by two Senior Clinical Psychologists.
We take a neuroaffirmative approach, bringing together information from you, your child and, where appropriate, their school to develop a fuller understanding of your child's individual profile. Alongside areas where they may be experiencing difficulty, we consider their strengths, differences and the supports that may be helpful to them.
We know that assessment can feel unfamiliar, so we aim to make the process as comfortable, respectful and child-centred as possible. At the end of the assessment, parents receive a dedicated feedback appointment and a comprehensive written report.
Gathering Information
We collect developmental history and current functioning through parent/caregiver questionnaires and, where appropriate, information from school.
Parent Interview
Parents meet virtually with one of our Senior Clinical Psychologists for a detailed developmental interview. This gives us an opportunity to learn about your child's early development, communication, relationships, interests, behaviours and experiences over time.
Child Assessment
Your child attends a face-to-face appointment at our West Cork office for a standardised assessment appropriate to their age and communication style. Through a range of activities and conversation, we learn more about how your child communicates, interacts with others and experiences social situations.
Parent Feedback & Report
Following assessment, parents are invited to a feedback appointment with one of our psychologists. We will talk you through the outcome of the assessment, explain how we reached our conclusions and discuss what the findings mean for your child. A written report is provided following completion of assessment.
A clearer way forward
At the end of the assessment, we will help you make sense of the findings and consider the supports and next steps that may be helpful for your child.
- A comprehensive written report
- A dedicated feedback session to talk through findings together
- Clear, practical recommendations for home and school
- Signposting to further supports and services where relevant
Ready to take the first step?
Get in touch to enquire about an autism assessment or ask us a question about the process.