Type of service: Diagnostic services, Diagnosticians

Service URL: http://www.spectrum-psychology.co.uk

Peter believes that the main aim of a psychological assessment is to help people make sense of their experiences, with or without reference to currently fashionable diagnostic categories. He tries to ensure from the outset that enquirers understand that the main benefits of a comprehensive diagnostic assessment are psychological, in terms of increased understanding; confirmation of a particular diagnosis may or may not bring entitlement to benefits or services. A package is offered which take 16 hours of psychology time, including: selection, administration, scoring and interpretation of questionnaires and psychological tests; separate diagnostic interviews with (where appropriate) the client and another informant; preparation of a draft report summarising the assessment information and its implications; opportunities for the client and others to discuss the assessment findings and implications, and amend the report prior to distribution (if they choose to share it with others). The timescale for the whole process varies, but can be within 2-6 weeks from the first appointment.

Alongside full diagnostic assessments, Peter offers psychological assessment and follow-up to people who already have a 'medical' diagnosis of an ASD, and who want further help in understanding their particular strengths and difficulties. As well as professional qualifications in both Clinical and Forensic Psychology, he has accredited training in ASD-specific techniques of diagnosis (DISCO, CARS) and interventions (TEACCH, Social Stories). He responds to requests from Solicitors for assessments of vulnerable people who are involved in criminal proceedings and people with known or suspected ASD in civil proceedings. Peter provides independent psychological assessments for the Court in relation to young people or adults who are involved in Court procedures.

Peter responds to requests from Solicitors for assessments of vulnerable people who are involved in criminal proceedings and people with known or suspected ASD in civil proceedings. This work includes providing independent reports to specific standards, attending Court and being cross-examined on psychological evidence when requested, and advising Solicitors or Counsel on psychological aspects of cases before they come to Court. Services are offered in relation to criminal and civil proceedings, child care cases, tribunals, and discretionary lifer panels. Peter accepts instructions from both Prosecution and Defence teams, and Joint Instructions in civil matters. Please note that Peter does not routinely offer services in personal injury claims. For further details, please see the website.

Assessment procedure: Standard self-report and informant questionnaire covering neurodevelopmental and mental health/behavioural issues; individual psychometric assessment; interviews with client and informant; preparation of draft report; opportunity to discuss assessment findings and finalise report.

Follow up service: Further individual, couple or family sessions by negotiation; liaison with schools and other appropriate service providers.

Multi-disciplinary assessment: The standard assessment process is Psychology-led. If needs are identified requiring expertise from other professional groups, then options are discussed and actioned following discussion/agreement.

Aimed at: Adolescent , Adult , Child

Referral Sources: Private Only

Specialisms: Exclusively autism specific

Other specialisms: Challenging behaviour, Learning disability, Neurodiversity/comorbidity, ASD in females.

Registrations and professional qualifications: Clinical and Forensic Psychology.

Approaches and tools used: ASDI, CARS, DISCO