Spectrum north west

[Scatterbrainbox]

Hi
Has anyone used this company for a private ASD assessment?
Thanks x

[Billie2372]

Yes I’ve used them. V warm and empathic group of staff - bent over backwards to accommodate my daughter who struggled to cooperate.

[Scatterbrainbox]

That's really good to hear. My daughter has an appointment booked next month. She has had masses of difficulties at school including refusal to attend, but is still upset at the thought of getting a diagnosis. She's 14 which I think is a hard age for things like that.
Can I ask a quick question which might sound daft?
Were you asked to send the payment to a bank account in the name of a Dr someone rather than a business account before the initial appointment?
And the appointment in Warrington? I was just a bit anxious about sending so much money to an account in an individual person's name.

Thanks x

[Autumn1974]

Hi I would 100% recommend Spectrum NorthWest for ASD assessment. My 11 year old son was assessed by them in August. I am a healthcare professional and completed thorough research beforehand to ensure that the clinicians followed NICE requirements.
I also had personal recommendation from a friend whose partner and 2 children had been assessed.
The assessments were thorough, individualised and it did not feel like we were rushed and on a conveyor belt. The clinicians were approachable, empathetic and put myself and my son completely at ease.
The diagnosis and recommendations report was extensive and provided a thorough insight into my son’s needs but also recommendations for strategies and approaches which other private healthcare groups do not provide.
If you are unsure, I would recommend that you make contact and have a conversation with the clinicians about what you feel you need from an assessment.
Feel free to ask any questions. Happy to help with what I know is a difficult journey.

[Autumn1974]

Yes, this is the procedure and don’t worry, this is genuine. Your money will go to the appropriate place.

[Scatterbrainbox]

That's really reassuring thank you, she hates appointments and assessments and that's really helpful. Thanks xx

[AlwaysHopeful]

I had the same reservation about paying in advance to a random doctors name with an office above a shop. But they're lovely people and provide a great service.

My DD was also 14 when she went through her diagnosis very recently.

[Jessh1980]

Hi - I’m looking at book an appt - feeling nervous at daughter is 10 and totally freaks at the thought of people talking about her . Worried they won’t be able to get her to engage . What are your thoughts .

[Autumn1974]

My son (11) shuts down and goes mute if he does not know people. Spectrum is a homely environment, not a clinic and the healthcare professionals who assessed him, relaxed and reassuring. I expected that he would say very little and refuse to engage and therefore would not be diagnosed. He was however completely at ease straight away. The staff chat, let them look around and take time.
If your daughter does not speak and won’t engage don’t worry though because the professionals understand that this behaviour is part of her and exactly the reason why you are seeking assessment.
Hope this helps.

[Jessh1980]

Thank you for messaging back. I have booked an appt with them and fingers crossed we can get her there . We originally went to CAMHS where she had a complete melt down and sobbed all the way through whilst kicking me. THe pure anxiety and embarrassment of somebody talking about her is so distressing. I feel awful putting her through it but feel in the long run kit will help[ us and her understand her behaviours.

[Autumn1974]

I’m sorry to hear she was so distressed. I also understand the distress as a parent during physical meltdowns. The pressure for young people to suddenly disclose who they are to complete strangers is not acceptable but unfortunately too common.
I wonder if your daughter finds demands and expectations difficult generally? You may find it helpful to have a look at some information on demand avoidant traits. The PDA Society UK website is brilliant. I hope you and your daughter get the answers and support you need.

[LeoBloom]

Oops, I’m sorry , I thought I was starting a new thread!! 🤔

[Scatterbrainbox]

I just wanted to come back as my daughter had her assessment. She received a diagnosis. The staff assessing her (a clinical psychologist and a speech and language therapist) were great. Completely put her at ease, listened to everything carefully, let her know she could go into the other room if it got too much etc.
The diagnostic report was really detailed and they also wrote a letter in age appropriate terms for her to explain the diagnosis and the strengths and difficulties she has.
There were also recommendations about how to support her for school.
On the back of the report, I applied for EHCP assessment (she was previously refused) and they have agreed to assess this time.
I honestly can't recommend them highly enough.

[Autumn1974]

So pleased for you

[Jessh1980]

Glad that your all sorted - we are booked in for March. Can I ask did they ask questions about your daughter whilst she was sat there. This is the part which will cause an absolute melt down for us.

[LittleDuffy]

Hi do you mind if I ask what the cost was. I can't seem to find an answer on the website!

[Jessh1980]

I think we paid £1900

[Lisa777]

Can I ask how much an ASD assessment costs for a 14 year old?

[Shmergel]

We are going there tomorrow with our son. He’s 13. It’s cost us £1575.

[NaomiSykes94]

Hi I am looking at using
Spectrum Northwest for a PDA assessment. 

Can I ask those who have used this clinic, did it take absolutely ages to get replies/an appointment? 

I’m having a lot of trouble with them it’s like drawing blood from a stone X