Autism Assessments

Autism can bring many strengths.

This can include an ability for deep focus, creative thinking, and a unique ability to notice patterns and details others might miss. Many autistic individuals have rich inner worlds, specialist interests, and a strong sense of fairness or logic.

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Autism brings differences

Generally autism brings differences in three main areas:

• Differences in verbal and non-verbal communication.

• Differences in social interaction.

• A need for predictability, an ability to focus intensely on particular interests and/or sensory differences.

 

At White Oaks we believe in a neuro-affirming perspective regarding autism. We do not see autism as a deficit—it’s a unique way of thinking and being. While autistic individuals may face challenges with social interaction, sensory processing, or communication, these are best understood in the context of environments that may not yet be designed with neurodiversity in mind. 

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Our Assessment Approach

At White Oaks, we use a multi-disciplinary team for assessments. Our approach is based on the Lorna Wing Centre for Autism in Bromley. The assessment includes four parts: DISCO, ADOS-2, Occupational Therapy assessment, and an observation in a different setting. This range ensures an accurate diagnosis.

It is important to note that assessments cannot guarantee a diagnosis. If your child is autistic, this will be identified through the assessments. Regardless of the diagnosis, the reports will concentrate on supporting you to better understand your child, their strengths and difficulties.

 

We begin with a pre-assessment phase to determine whether a full autism assessment is appropriate.

This includes:

• A parent consultation

• Screening questionnaires completed by both parents and school

• A collaborative decision about the most suitable assessment pathway

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Whats Included in a Full Assessment

The assessment consists of the following components:

• DISCO (Diagnostic Interview for Social and Communication Disorders), which is completed with parents/caregivers only. This is carried out either at the clinic or via teams.

• ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Version 2) for your child, completed at the clinic.

• Input from school, usually via a school observation or teacher interview.

• Occupational Therapy assessment, completed at the clinic. 

• Write up and generation of comprehensive report pack including diagnostic decision and recommendations.

• Complimentary follow up appointment to discuss recommendations.

 

Will White Oaks help after diagnosis?

Of course. We will answer questions about the reports, prioritise recommendations, and provide therapeutic support if required. Additionally, we can recommend other therapeutic intervention, as appropriate, such as speech and language therapy or occupational therapy.