We are trained and licensed to administered the following diagnostic assessment processes:
AUTISM
- The DISCO – Diagnostic Interview for Social and Communications Disorders, is a National Autistic Society accredited diagnostic assessment. It was developed by Dr Lorna Wing and Dr Judith Gould as both a clinical and a research instrument for use with children and adults of any age and across all levels of ability. The DISCO can also assist in identifying conditions often associated with the autism spectrum such as ADHD, Pathological Demand Avoidance, learning and sensory issues.
- The 3Di-r – Developmental, Dimensional and Diagnostic Interview, is a highly structured computer based developmental assessment that asks a range of questions about a person’s childhood development and current functioning. It looks not only at Autism Spectrum Conditions, but also considers whether a range of related issues (e.g., ADHD and language difficulties) might overlap with Autistic Spectrum conditions or provide a better overall explanation for a person's difficulties.
- The ADOS-2 – Diagnostic Observation Schedule, was created by Dr Catherine Lord and uses semi structured activities and conversations to provide opportunities to observe and understand the behaviours, strengths and difficulties in social communication, interaction and play that are important for diagnosis.
- The MIGDAS -2 framework – Monteiro Interview Guidelines for Diagnosing the Autism Spectrum. This is a sensory-based process for gathering and organising the qualitative information needed to diagnose autism in children, adolescents, and adults. Both Deborah and Catherine use these guidelines to as part of their assessments
- The ADI-R – Autism Diagnostic Interview - Revised, is a clinical diagnostic instrument appropriate for children and adults
ADHD
- The Conners Child ADHD screening measure – provides a thorough assessment of symptoms and impairments associated with ADHD and common co-occurring problems and disorders in children and young people. It is administered via online questionnaires, with feedback via a Zoom appointment.
- The Conners’ Adult ADHD Rating Scales (CAARS-2) - we use the long version, which provides the most detailed information and allow us to determine whether to proceed with a full diagnostic assessment using the DIVA . It is administered via an online questionnaire with feedback via a Zoom appointment.
- The Connors and the CAARS measure the following areas to demonstrate the presence and severity of ADHD symptoms:
- Inattention/Memory Problems
- Hyperactivity/Restlessness
- Impulsivity/Emotional Lability
- Problems with Self-Concept
- The DIVA – Diagnostic Interview for ADHD, is a comprehensive assessment tool used for children, adolescents, and adults. This is carried out either face to face or via Zoom.