Private assessment can be an option for families seeking a diagnosis however, it is important to ensure that any assessment is evidence based, thorough and meets the necessary standards for accuracy and reliability.
Before pursuing a private assessment, it’s important to consider what the assessment will provide. A diagnosis alone does not automatically lead to support. What really matters for children and young people is understanding their individual profile including their strengths and challenges, and using this information to put helpful strategies in place.
Support does not always need a formal diagnosis. Schools and families can focus on tailoring support to a child's needs based on their profile. We offer online training sessions and online resources for parents and carers to help the process of understanding and supporting your child.
Should I consider a private neuro-developmental assessment for my child?
Can you recommend a private provider?
No, we do not recommend any private providers. However, we advise that any assessment should be robust, evidence based and include information from at least 2 different settings (e.g. home and school). It should also show evidence of behaviours and difficulties over time. The private providers should also be an appropriately qualified healthcare professional with training and expertise in neurodevelopmental disorders.
Even if a private assessment appears to meet the necessary standards, the NHS and other public services are not obligated to accept or endorse the diagnosis. They may still require their own assessments to determine whether further intervention or support through their service would be indicated. As already noted, a diagnosis will not necessarily guarantee further intervention, as many services provide support on a needs-led basis.
Even if a private assessment appears to meet the necessary standards, the NHS and other public services are not obligated to accept or endorse the diagnosis. They may still require their own assessments to determine whether further intervention or support through their service would be indicated. As already noted, a diagnosis will not necessarily guarantee further intervention, as many services provide support on a needs-led basis.
Do you have any resources to help me choose a private provider if I decide a private assessment is right for my child?
We have included a checklist to help families evaluate private assessments and ensure they meet appropriate standards. This checklist is a useful tool when considering private companies. You may also want to consider Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) which you can access by clicking the link.
Checklist
Assessment includes: Yes/ No
Appropriate formal assessments (e.g. Conners, ADOS)
It’s important to remember that a good assessment is not just about obtaining a diagnosis. It should focus on gaining a deep understanding of a child’s strengths, challenges, and developmental needs. Children are constantly growing and changing, so assessments should consider their ongoing development rather than just providing a single label. A well conducted assessment should guide meaningful support strategies that evolve alongside the child.
Additionally, in the case of ADHD, diagnostic guidelines recommend behavioural strategies and tailored support as the first line of intervention before considering medication. Effective strategies might include structured routines, environmental adaptation and tailored learning approaches. A good assessment should help identify these needs and suggest practical strategies before medication is explored.
Checklist
Assessment includes: Yes/ No
- Assessment will be by specialist qualified healthcare professionals with training and expertise in neurodevelopmental conditions
- Assessment should include consideration of -
- Possible co-existing neurodevelopmental conditions
- Possible medical conditions and medical history
- Possible genetic conditions
- Possible impact of adverse childhood experiences
- A full developmental history
- Psychiatric history where appropriate
- The child/ young person’s needs and wants
- Different areas of personal and social functioning
- Social situation
- Family situation
- Educational/ training/ work situation
- Physical health/ general medical examination
- Observation reports/ evidence across more than 1 setting ( e.g. School/ Early years setting, home)
- Observations / evidence over time- showing differences being present over 6 months or more, and present during early years
Appropriate formal assessments (e.g. Conners, ADOS)
It’s important to remember that a good assessment is not just about obtaining a diagnosis. It should focus on gaining a deep understanding of a child’s strengths, challenges, and developmental needs. Children are constantly growing and changing, so assessments should consider their ongoing development rather than just providing a single label. A well conducted assessment should guide meaningful support strategies that evolve alongside the child.
Additionally, in the case of ADHD, diagnostic guidelines recommend behavioural strategies and tailored support as the first line of intervention before considering medication. Effective strategies might include structured routines, environmental adaptation and tailored learning approaches. A good assessment should help identify these needs and suggest practical strategies before medication is explored.
