Seeing the world through their eyes.
Comprehensive, NICE-compliant Autism assessments. We look beyond the behaviour to understand your child’s unique strengths and sensory needs.
It’s not about a label. It’s about understanding.
As a parent, you know your child best. You may have noticed they experience the world differently; perhaps they find noisy environments overwhelming, struggle with unwritten social rules, or have intense passions that bring them joy but set them apart.
You might be tired of being told your child is just “anxious” or “will grow out of it.” At AYC, we validate your concerns. We don’t view these differences as something to be “fixed.” We view them as clues to how your child’s brain works.
Our goal is to give you a robust, positive framework to help them thrive at home and in school.
The “Gold Standard” for your child.
Many providers offer quick online assessments that are later rejected by Local Authorities. At AYC, we cut no corners. Our pathway is strictly NICE-compliant and designed to stand up to scrutiny for EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan) funding.
Two Clinicians
The Equality Act
Your child is never assessed by just one person. Our ADOS-2 sessions are led by a team (e.g., a Clinical Psychologist and a Speech & Language Therapist).
University Support
Sensory Focus
We include a specialised Sensory Processing Measure to understand how they handle noise, touch, and light.
School Collaboration
Wellbeing
We don’t work in isolation. We gather structured evidence from their teachers to see the full picture.
The Assessment Pathway
Beyond personal validation, a formal diagnosis unlocks legal protections and tangible support.
Pre-Assessment Screening
We review your initial forms and school reports to confirm this is the right pathway before you commit.
Parent Interview (ADI-R)
A detailed, supportive conversation with you (without your child present). We use the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised to explore their developmental history from birth.
The Play Session (ADOS-2)
Your child attends our Warrington centre for the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule. This is not a “test” with pass or fail grades. It’s a series of play-based activities and conversations designed to let us see how they communicate and interact naturally.
Sensory & School Data
You complete a Sensory Processing Measure questionnaire, and we gather data from their school.
Multi-Disciplinary Review
Our team of psychologists and therapists meet to review all evidence and reach a consensus diagnosis.
Feedback & Report
We meet to explain the outcome clearly and provide a detailed report full of practical recommendations for school and home.
The Whole Child.
Using the framework from our clinical practice, we look at four key areas:
Social Communication
How they understand and use language (literal interpretation, tone of voice).
Social Interaction
How they relate to peers, understand unwritten rules, and manage friendships.
Flexibility of Thought
Their need for routine, special interests, and how they cope with change.
Sensory Processing
Their unique profile of hypersensitivity (seeking or avoiding certain sensations).
Questions Parents Ask Us
We make it as low-stress as possible. Our Warrington centre is sensory-friendly, and the ADOS-2 session feels more like play than a medical exam. Most children enjoy the activities.
No. Masking (hiding traits to fit in) is very common, especially in girls. Our clinicians are trained to look beyond the “good behaviour” at school, using your developmental history to understand the internal cost to the child..
You still get answers. You will receive a detailed psychological report explaining their strengths and needs, even if they don’t meet the criteria for Autism. We will always guide you on next steps.
Holistic Support
Combined Autism & ADHD Assessment ➜
Does your child also struggle with focus or impulse control?
Post-Diagnostic Support (EHCPs) ➜
Help with the paperwork and securing support.