Families who come to us aren't simply seeking a label. They want to understand their child more fully, help their child understand themselves, and make sure the right support is in place so they can thrive.
For many families, reaching this point has taken time. You may have noticed for a while that your child experiences the world a little differently — and spent months, perhaps years, trying to understand what that means and what to do next.
Those differences often bring real strengths: creativity, honesty, deep loyalty to their interests, or original ways of thinking. At the same time there may be ongoing challenges in friendships, school, emotional wellbeing, or managing everyday demands.
All assessments are led by Dr Sirja van Zyl, who will be part of your journey from the first phone call to the final feedback meeting. We often hear from children that — despite being nervous — they enjoyed the process far more than they expected.
We recognise autism as a natural form of neurodiversity — not something to be fixed or overcome. Our aim is not simply to determine whether diagnostic criteria are met, but to understand your child's individual profile — their strengths, differences and support needs — and to help them and your family make sense of what that means.
We have particular expertise in assessing children and young people whose differences have not previously been recognised, including:
We never base clinical decisions solely on cut-off scores. Our aim is to understand your hopes and goals for the assessment, give you honest and meaningful answers and agree a clear path forward.
Dr Sirja and her clinical team review all the information gathered, then meet with you to share the outcome, answer your questions and discuss next steps. A detailed written report is included — this can be shared with schools, universities, healthcare providers and NHS teams. Your report includes practical recommendations for home, school and your child's emotional wellbeing — whether or not a diagnosis is made.
We begin by meeting with parents or carers to gather a detailed developmental history using NICE-recognised assessment tools (3Di or ADI-R). This helps us understand your child's development, communication, social interaction, interests and anything else you would like to share.
At the same time, your child takes part in an observational assessment (ADOS-2) — structured, age-appropriate activities in a relaxed and supportive setting. There are no right or wrong answers, and we work carefully to help young people feel comfortable. Many children tell us they enjoyed the session.
We know that receiving a diagnosis — or any outcome from an assessment — is often just the beginning. We want to make sure you and your child feel supported in whatever comes next.
There is no pressure to make any decisions immediately after the assessment.
If you would like to find out more or discuss whether an assessment is right for your child, a free initial call is a good place to start.
No obligation — just a conversation.We know that receiving a diagnosis — or any outcome from an assessment — is often just the beginning. We want to make sure you and your child feel supported in whatever comes next.
There is no pressure to make any decisions immediately after the assessment.
We know that considering an autism assessment for your child can feel like a significant step. Our information pack explains the process clearly so you and your family know exactly what to expect - before you decide whether to get in touch.
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If you would like to find out more or discuss whether an assessment is right for your child, a free initial call is a good place to start.
No obligation — just a conversation.