ADHD & ASD Screening and Diagnosis at the Norwich Clinic

The Norwich ASD-ADHD Wellbeing Clinic opened in early 2017 with Different Minds East Anglia LLP kindly allowing ADHD Norfolk, to use their well established consulting rooms in central Norwich after we identified a high demand for therapeutic and diagnosis services for ADHD and ASD autism in East Anglia. The clinic operates with a strong multi disciplinary team which includes psychiatrists and psychologists, ADHD & ASD coaches and mentors.

Having a ADHD or ASD autism assessment or diagnosis can be a huge relief, you finally understand who you are.

However, after the initial relief of a diagnosis, there can be for many, a roller coaster of emotions including grief, loss and resentment.

In our clinic all our work involving Coaching, Psycho Education Screening and assessment is carried out by our specialists, Different Minds East Anglia LLP. We aim to give the very best support to neuro-diverse individuals be they 2 years old or 75 and we cannot do that without the assistance of other specialist organisations.

When it comes to treating ADHD and ASD there are ways to assist in modifying the behaviours. however there is not a magic cure and there is so much more to assisting you when you have ADHD other than being prescribed medication. Medication is not used generally in the treatment of ASD/Autism.

Living with ADHD and ASD can be very difficult especially if you do not fully understand how your own neuro diverse brain works. It should be noted that medication is not for everyone but learning and understanding how your ADHD and ASD brain works is vital. Our multi modal and multi disciplinary approach to ADHD and ASD diagnosis and management is extremely effective in the majority of people we work with.

At our ADHD ASD Wellbeing Clinic we aim to achieve nothing but exceptional therapeutic services helping you achieve your full potential in life. ADHD Norfolk wants you to have the very best treatment, diagnosis and support at an affordable price.

We will not tolerate any form of abuse to the clinic staff. Any person using verbal or physical abuse will be excluded from further clinical assistance, support or consultation.

Living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) presents a diverse array of challenges that can profoundly impact every aspect of an individual’s life. ASD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by difficulties in social interaction, communication, and repetitive patterns of behaviour. These challenges vary widely among individuals, ranging from mild to severe, and can significantly impact daily functioning and quality of life.

One of the primary challenges faced by individuals with ASD is social interaction. Difficulty understanding social cues, norms, and nonverbal communication can lead to social isolation and difficulty forming and maintaining relationships. Individuals with ASD may struggle to initiate and sustain conversations, interpret facial expressions and body language, and engage in reciprocal interactions, which can hinder their ability to connect with others and navigate social situations effectively.

Communication difficulties are also prevalent among individuals with ASD. Some may have delayed speech development or exhibit echolalia, repeating words or phrases they hear. Others may have difficulty with pragmatic language skills, such as understanding sarcasm, irony, or figurative language. These communication challenges can lead to misunderstandings, frustration, and difficulty expressing needs and emotions, further complicating social interactions and relationships.

Sensory sensitivities are another significant challenge for many individuals with ASD. Sensory processing differences can result in heightened sensitivity or hyposensitivity to sensory stimuli, such as lights, sounds, textures, and smells. Overwhelm from sensory input can lead to meltdowns or shutdowns, where individuals may become overwhelmed or withdraw from their environment to cope with sensory overload. These sensory challenges can interfere with daily activities, such as attending school, participating in social events, or even leaving the house.

Repetitive behaviours and restricted interests are hallmark features of ASD and can manifest in various ways. Some individuals may engage in stereotyped movements, such as hand-flapping or rocking, while others may adhere rigidly to routines and rituals, becoming distressed when these routines are disrupted. Restricted interests may consume a significant amount of time and attention, leading to difficulties in focusing on other tasks or activities.

Executive functioning difficulties are common among individuals with ASD and can impact various aspects of daily life. Challenges with planning, organization, and time management can make it difficult to complete tasks efficiently and independently. Executive dysfunction may also affect problem-solving skills, flexibility, and the ability to adapt to changes in routines or expectations, further complicating daily functioning and academic or vocational success.

Transitions can be particularly challenging for individuals with ASD. Whether transitioning between activities, environments, or life stages, changes can trigger anxiety, uncertainty, and difficulty adapting to new circumstances. Supportive strategies, such as visual schedules, social stories, and gradual transitions, can help individuals with ASD navigate transitions more effectively and reduce distress.

Navigating the education system can pose significant challenges for individuals with ASD. Many struggle with academic tasks that require abstract thinking, inferential reasoning, or flexible problem-solving. Additionally, social and sensory challenges can impact participation in classroom activities and interactions with peers and teachers. Educators may need to implement accommodations and modifications to support the unique needs of students with ASD and create inclusive learning environments.

Employment can also present challenges for individuals with ASD. Difficulty with social communication, sensory sensitivities, and executive functioning can impact job performance and interactions with colleagues and supervisors. Finding suitable employment opportunities that align with individuals’ strengths and interests while accommodating their challenges can be a significant barrier to vocational success.

Despite these challenges, it’s essential to recognise the strengths and abilities of individuals with ASD. Many possess unique talents, such as attention to detail, pattern recognition, and creative thinking, that can contribute to their success in various fields. With appropriate support, accommodations, and understanding from society, individuals with ASD can lead fulfilling lives and make valuable contributions to their communities.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) diagnosis options.

We offer our via our partners Different Minds East Anglia LLP, ADHD and ASD screening and diagnosis assessment services which includes a comprehensive consultation and a report of our findings ready for you to take to your GP for referral if required for diagnosis, on either the NHS ADHD pathway or for private ADHD assessment with ourselves or others. Please remember not everyone requires medication.

ADHD or ASD screening and report £350.00

ADHD full diagnosis after screening with our multidisciplinary team, together with full advice and support for one year £750.00

For ASD diagnosis after screening using gold standard ADI-R, ADOS-2 and ABAS-3 is £1500.00

We offer a short free initial telephone chat for you to talk to us and decide on the best route to suit you, you can of course just book a screening should you wish.

We do of course still offer ADHD and ASD advice and support free of charge, this service is kindly supported from time to time by ongoing financial support and staff support from Different Minds East Anglia LLP

Please contact us for advice, further details and to make clinic appointments.

Fees correct at 13th January 2024

ADHD Diagnosis.

Full ADHD and ASD diagnosis

Our ADHD-ASD Wellbeing Clinic offers ADHD and ASD-Autism diagnosis.

This is a private medical diagnosis service and requires payment. However, it takes only a few weeks rather than three to four years with the current backlog being experienced by the NHS services.

A full comprehensive Screening consultation is required to be undertaken before a diagnoses appointment is offered for either ASD or ADHD.

An ADHD-ASD consultation and assessment complete with a screening report on its own is available and sent to you within twenty one days and costs £350.00.

Full diagnosis can only be carried out after a ADHD-ASD screening consultation has been completed.

Private ADHD diagnosis is set at a fair price of £750.00 for excellent treatment with total transparency, Please note that a screening consultation is required prior to booking a full diagnosis.

Private ASD diagnosis which includes the ADI-R, ADOS-2 and ABAS-3 consultations is set at £1500.00 after the initial screening has been completed.

Please contact us for details of private ADHD or ASD diagnosis at; enquiries@adhdnorfolk.org.uk

Maybe you already have a diagnosis ( Many private diagnostic services offer diagnosis but do not include in their offerings coaching, education or support ). Therapeutic interventions and support after diagnosis are advised if you are to get the best from your life. We offer junior coaching, adult, couple and family coaching and ADHD-ASD education. All our coaches have a full understanding of Autism or ADHD by either having the condition themselves or hold relevant qualifications.

For more details please click on the info button below.

Process document January 2023 v60

Junior Coaching

Adult Coaching

Couple Coaching

We aim to help reduce the need for long-term and cost intensive responses from health and social care.

All coaching sessions in clinic for ASD or ADHD are charged at £95.00 per session .

Coaching sessions in schools or workplaces are charged at £135.00 per session with additional travel costs etc.

Please email; enquiries@adhdnorfolk.org.uk for more details.

What is ASD- Autism and the differences between ADHD

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are both neurodevelopmental disorders that can affect individuals from a young age. While they share some similarities, they are distinct conditions with unique characteristics and diagnostic criteria.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD):

Autism Spectrum Disorder is a complex developmental disorder that affects social interaction, communication, and behaviour. It is characterised by a wide range of symptoms and severity levels, which is why it is referred to as a “spectrum” disorder.

Some common characteristics of ASD include:

1. Social Challenges: Individuals with ASD may have difficulty with social interactions, such as making eye contact, understanding social cues, and forming relationships.

2. Communication Difficulties: People with ASD may have challenges with verbal and nonverbal communication, such as understanding gestures, tone of voice, and facial expressions.

3. Repetitive Behaviours: Repetitive behaviours and routines are common in individuals with ASD. This can include repetitive movements, fixations on specific topics, and resistance to change.

4. Sensory Sensitivities: Many individuals with ASD have sensitivities to sensory stimuli, such as loud noises, bright lights, or textures.

5. Special Interests: People with ASD may have intense interests in specific topics or activities, often focusing on one particular subject.

ADHD:

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. While some symptoms of ADHD may overlap with those of ASD, there are key differences between the two conditions:

1. Inattention: Individuals with ADHD may have difficulty focusing, organizing tasks, and sustaining attention on activities. This is a core symptom of ADHD that is not typically associated with ASD.

2. Hyperactivity and Impulsivity: Hyperactivity and impulsivity are hallmark symptoms of ADHD, leading to behaviors such as fidgeting, interrupting others, and acting without thinking.

3. Executive Functioning: ADHD often involves challenges with executive functions, such as planning, time management, and self-regulation. These difficulties may not be as prominent in individuals with ASD.

4. Social Communication: While both ASD and ADHD can impact social interactions, the nature of these challenges differs. In ASD, social difficulties often stem from a lack of understanding social cues, while in ADHD, social challenges may arise from impulsivity or inattention.

Diagnosis and Treatment:

Diagnosing ASD and ADHD involves a comprehensive evaluation by healthcare professionals, including , psychologists, and psychiatrists. Treatment approaches for both disorders may include behavioural therapies, medication, and support services tailored to the individual’s needs.

In summary, ASD and ADHD are distinct neurodevelopmental disorders with unique characteristics, though they may share some common symptoms. Understanding the differences between the two conditions is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate interventions to support individuals affected by these disorders. The multidisciplinary team at our Norwich clinic is there to help you.