Type of service: Diagnostic services

Service URL: https://www.moaihealth.com/clinical

All our assessments are led by Consultant Psychiatrists. The psychiatric review is a crucial component of our Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) diagnosis process. This comprehensive evaluation examines an individual's mental health history, current symptoms, and overall psychological well-being. It helps identify co-occurring conditions, understand behavioural patterns, and provide a complete picture of the individual's mental health to support an accurate ASC diagnosis. Further to this they are uniquely positioned to offer prescribing of medication if required.

We use a full suite of diagnostic tools as well as gathering and synthesising information from a range of sources when diagnosing ASC; The Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R) is an essential tool in our Autism assessment process. This structured interview, conducted with parents or caregivers, covers the individual's developmental history, focusing on communication, social interaction, and restricted, repetitive behaviours. It helps gather detailed information about the child's or young person's early development, current functioning, and specific behavioural patterns.

The Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) is a key tool in our Autism assessment process. Suitable for all ages, abilities, and language skills, this semi-structured, standardised assessment evaluates communication, social skills, play, and repetitive behaviours. It helps assess how a child or young person interacts, communicates, plays, and if they have any restricted or repetitive behaviours or interests. We gather collateral information from schools and families as part of our diagnostic process to meet the criteria for ASC. This is through interviews, observation of digital questionnaires. This ensures that the presence of difficulties is pervasive across different environments, providing a comprehensive understanding of the individual's challenges and behaviours. Our diagnostic process for ASC utilises a multidisciplinary team (MDT) approach. This involves collaboration among various professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, speech therapists, and educators, to provide a comprehensive and accurate diagnosis.

By integrating diverse expertise, we ensure a thorough understanding of the individual's needs and challenges. In terms of aftercare your Consultant Psychiatrist will create a bespoke care plan for individuals diagnosed with ASC. This will include a holistic approach utilising the rich variety of resources we offer. These include cognitive assessments, sensory assessments, psychotherapy, and behavioural treatment pathways from our clinical psychologists and occupational therapists. In some cases this may include medication, which your psychiatrist can prescribe without additional input from other services.

We can liaise with school or work environments to offer context specific understanding and advice. We also offer neurodivergent coaching for individuals and their families. Additionally, we provide support through parent and carer groups to ensure comprehensive care and assistance for families. We also offer Consultant Psychiatrist assessment and diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder from ages 5-65.