Home Preparing for your assessment
Preparing for your assessment
Knowing what's coming can make things feel more manageable. Here's what to expect at each stage, what might help to prepare, and the adjustments you can ask for.
Before your assessment
Jot down examples
A few real-life examples help, from now and from childhood if you can. Think about focus, organisation, energy, sensory experiences, routines, relationships, work or study. Bullet points are fine, and there are no wrong answers.
Gather anything useful
If you have them, old school reports, previous assessments or letters can add useful context. They're helpful, not essential.
Think about an informant
For autism assessments, the ADI-R needs someone who knew you as a young child, usually a parent. For ADHD this is helpful but not essential. If nobody is available, tell us at your free call.
What each session is like
Free initial call · 15 minutes
An informal chat by phone, video or WhatsApp about what's brought you here. You don't need to prepare anything.
DIVA-5 (ADHD) · approx. 1.5–2 hours, by video
A structured conversation about ADHD traits in childhood and adulthood, and how they show up in different areas of your life.
ADI-R (autism) · approx. 2–3 hours, by video
An interview with your informant about your early development. It happens separately, so you don't need to be there.
ADOS-2 (autism) · approx. 1 hour, in person or online
Conversation and some activities with your assessor. It's not a test you can pass or fail, and there's nothing to prepare.
For video sessions: choose a quiet, comfortable space if you can, have water and anything that helps you regulate nearby, and test your camera and sound beforehand. Fidgeting, stimming and moving around are completely fine.
Adjustments you can ask for
Assessments should work for you. Tell us what helps, on your enquiry form, at your free call or any time before a session. You don't need to explain or justify it.
After your assessment
Independent review
An HCPC-registered Clinical or Educational Psychologist reviews your full file against diagnostic criteria and co-signs your report.
Report & feedback
You'll get your written report and a feedback session in plain language. It's fine to feel a mix of emotions afterwards, and you can take your time with it.
Using your report
Share it with your GP, employer or place of study if you choose. It can support reasonable adjustments or an Access to Work application. We provide diagnosis only, so speak to your GP about any medication.
Preparation checklist
Tick things off as you go. Your ticks aren't saved.
Helpful information
Resources
Trusted UK organisations for information and support, before or after assessment.
Questions? Talk to us
Get in touch whichever way suits you. There's no commitment.