Ed Psych in London?

[MrsMattie]

Does anyone have a recommendation for a private Ed psych in London who would be willing/able to assess my 5 yr old DS for Asperger's?

Thanks

Do you mean to dx AS, or to assess the educational needs of a child who already has an AS dx? An Ed Psych isn't usually able to dx AS, it would usually be done in a multi disciplinary team including paed and/or psychiatrist. The role of an Ed Psych is to assess any difficulties with learning and to make educational recommendations.

You could get a dx from an individual private paed or psychiatrist. There is a list on the Autism London website.

Yes, sorry, not clear - we are after a diagnosis. Still going through NHS channels, but they are taking forever. We were told that only an Ed Psych could make a diagnosis. Is that completely wrong, then? He has been seen by NHS psychotherapist, Paed, SALT etc but still everyone skirting around the issue, saying he 'may' have AS, shows 'some' signs etc.

Hi MrsMattie,

Whoever told you that initially re an EP was sadly misinformed.

An Ed Pysch cannot make any official diagnosis; they can only advise and make recommendations on educational needs. Their words do count if a Statement application is made to the LEA; this is where they are useful.

You would be better off seeing a developmental paediatrician if you want a diagnosis and your GP should refer you to such a person. Also looking at the NAS website may be helpful to you as well.