Assessment

Autism spectrum conditions (ASC) are often complex, but through careful, detailed assessment we can achieve a clearer understanding of strengths, weaknesses and needs.

At the Inscape Centre, we provide an interdisciplinary approach to assessment.

The experienced and specialised team that undertakes assessments includes:

• Speech and language therapists
• Teachers
• Chartered psychologists
• Occupational therapists.

In some instances, other professionals involved with the young person may also be invited to join in the assessment process at the Centre. In this way we aim to share information, knowledge and skills.

On referral an individual assessment plan is drawn up. We may use a range of different staff and assessment techniques depending upon the age, abilities, and needs of the young person and the reasons for referral.

Typically the procedure might consist of:

• An initial observation in a setting familiar to the young person - for example their school or home
• Interviews with parents and other professionals 
• Further observation of the child at the Inscape Centre in structured and unstructured settings
• Testing to determine a profile of strengths and weaknesses relating to cognitive abilities, communicative functioning, approaches to learning, current levels of attainment, self-esteem, etc.

We try to take particular care to prepare the young person for the assessment by using a booklet, which explains who they will meet and what will happen on the day. Their own interests are included where possible.

Most assessments take place over a period of one or two sessions. Sometimes these sessions take place on different days. We may use a general approach to the assessment to begin with. This may then be followed by a more specific assessment, depending upon the information obtained in the first session. 

At the end of the assessment there is a meeting with the parents (and sometimes other professionals) to discuss what we have done, our view of the child’s current pattern of needs and our suggestions for approaches to future teaching and/or therapy. Subsequently, a written report is produced.

Referrals for assessment may be made by a range of agencies and by individuals. A personalised time scale for assessment, an outline procedure and an agreed cost is established with those requesting the assessment before the young person is seen.