BOOK A FREE INTRODUCTORY CALL WITH A DOCTOR
Renolda Antonyrajah – Highly Specialist Speech and Language Therapist
Renolda is a Highly Specialist Speech and Language Therapist who has broad experience working with children and families from different cultural backgrounds.
In this video, we discuss speech and language therapy.
In Conversation with Renolda
Speech and Language therapists do loads of different jobs within Speech and language therapy. So we see children with eating and drinking difficulties, we see children with voice difficulties. We see children who have stammering, like repeating words or getting stuck in words. We see children with speech difficulties and pronunciation difficulties. Sometimes they may have difficulties pronouncing words correctly and also we see children who have language, difficulties with grammar, structure and meaning as well.
On top of that, we actually work with children’s communication and interaction and so on. Especially for children with Autism. The main difference between typical children and Autistic children is that they have significant differences in the way that they interact, connect and then can communicate with people.
As speech and language therapists, we support parents to be able to connect with their children. We may support education staff to connect and communicate with their children as well. On top of that, we actually use other means to communicate other than speech. So we may actually use something like this to communicate. So a visual way to communicate. ‘I want to go’. ‘Oh no, no, I don’t want to go’. ‘I need help’. So we actually use special prompts to support their communications so that children will be able to communicate better.
We don’t actually make children sit down and learn words. We don’t actually make children speak if they have tongue tie. We don’t actually make them do speeches in public places. What we actually do is more fundamental than speech. It is connection between children and parents, and other people.
And to be able to play, we use play a lot to develop their language because play is the best and safeest medium to develop language, communication, interaction and connection as well.
We show videos like ‘Amazing Things Happen’, which explains Autism to them in a very positive way and also a scientific way. We have room for questions. What they think, how they feel and what they need to do when they feel like, or ‘Am I doing something wrong?’ or ‘I can’t do this.’ That’s okay, because not all of us can do all things. I can’t sing, I like singing, I love to sing, but I can’t sing. That’s me. That’s okay. So I love listening to music and people singing, and I like people who sing. So that’s okay. So we can’t do all the things that we would like to do all the time, but it’s okay.
Always make sure that when you’re talking to children, ‘Autism is part of you’. I don’t want to take Autism away from you or anybody because it’s a very unique thing to have. It’s a positive thing to have. So I heard an autistic person saying that he feels very lucky and he is one in a million. It is so sweet. And that’s how everybody should feel. As parents, we always have to understand their strengths and their differences and accept who they are.
BOOK A FREE INTRODUCTORY CALL WITH A DOCTOR
Private Autism Assessments. Book a 15 minute consultation – £49.
FAQs
How long is the wait time for a children's private autism assessment?
For private assessments, we aim to arrange a pre-assessment with a Specialist Doctor within 72 hours. If a full autism assessment is recommended, all appointments are typically completed within 4 weeks. Some delays may occur for example if the educational placement is closed during the holiday period. A comprehensive report, including a diagnosis where appropriate, is usually delivered within 10 days of your final appointment.
If you are referred through your NHS Trust, timelines are similar, although this can vary depending on local demand.
Do I need a GP referral for a private autism assessment?
No, you do not need a GP referral to access our private autism assessment service. Your first step is a consultation with one of our Specialist Doctors, all of whom also work within the NHS. They will discuss your child’s needs, development, and any concerns you or their school may have. If appropriate, you will be offered a short video consultation to review your child’s needs in more detail and decide whether to proceed with a full assessment.
What is included in a private autism assessment?
A private autism assessment at Autism Clinic London includes a detailed developmental history, clinical observations, and a structured diagnostic ADOS assessment. Input from parents, caregivers, and educational placements may also be included to ensure a complete understanding of your child’s needs. All of our reports mirror those you would receive from an NHS assessment.
How much does a private autism assessment cost in the UK?
The cost of a private autism assessment varies depending on the provider and the complexity of the assessment. To compare costs from other providers our costs cover the initial consultation, full diagnostic assessment, and a detailed written report. Mostly, you will be charged over £2,000 with some private clinics charging up to £3,500. We work hard to deliver our assessments at a lower rate than most of the market without compromising on quality. For example, some providers will assess your child without meeting them face-to-face. We believe that for an assessment to be thorough, we have to see your child in person.
Is a private autism diagnosis recognised by the NHS and schools?
Yes, a private autism diagnosis carried out by Autism Clinic London is recognised by schools, the NHS and local authorities. All our assessments are carried out by our multi-disciplinary team who follow NICE guidelines.
Many schools and local authorities accept private reports to support EHCP applications and access to support services.
Do you do assessments for ADHD?
Although our clinicians do carry out ADHD assessments in their NHS practice, we do not currently offer ADHD assessments at Autism Clinic London. Our Autism Assessments do include a comprehensive report and will highlight if there are possible ADHD concerns, which can then be explored in future by your child’s local NHS trust or by another provider.
What age can a child be diagnosed with autism?
Children can be assessed for autism from around 18 months onwards. Early diagnosis can help children access the right support sooner, improving long-term outcomes. We see children aged between 2 and 14 years.
What are the signs that my child may need an autism assessment?
How accurate is a private autism assessment?
Private autism assessments are highly accurate when conducted by experienced clinicians using evidence-based diagnostic tools and NICE guidelines. The quality of the assessment depends on the expertise of the professionals involved and the thoroughness of the process. We are regulated, inspected and rated by CQC which ensures that you can depend on the quality of our assessments.
What happens after an autism diagnosis?
Can adults get a private autism assessment too?
Yes, many private services offer autism assessments for adults as well as children. The process is similar but tailored to adult experiences, including work, relationships, and mental health history. We are a specialist clinic that only assesses children.
Is a private autism assessment faster than the NHS?
Yes, private assessments are significantly faster. While NHS waiting lists can often exceed 12–24 months, a private assessment at Autism Clinic London will typically be completed within four weeks.
Will schools accept a private autism assessment report?
Schools should accept private autism assessment reports, particularly when completed by qualified clinicians who follow NICE guidelines. These reports can be used to support SEN planning and requests for additional support.
Can I use a private diagnosis to apply for an EHCP?
Yes, a private diagnosis can support an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) application. The report provides professional evidence of your child’s needs and recommended support.
What is the difference between screening and a full autism assessment?
A screening is an initial check to see whether autism may be present, while a full assessment is a comprehensive diagnostic process that can lead to a formal diagnosis. If you are concerned that your child has signs of Autism, please contact us and we can arrange an initial assessment in the first instance.
Do you offer online only autism assessments?
Some parts of the assessment process, such as initial consultations and diagnostic interviews with parent or carer, can be carried out online. However, a full diagnostic assessment will require in-person observation. Other providers may offer fully virtual assessments but such assessments do not meet our standards.
Why is an autism diagnosis important?
An autism diagnosis helps individuals and families understand their experiences, access appropriate support, and make informed decisions about education, healthcare, and daily life.
Does an autism diagnosis change anything?
A diagnosis doesn’t change who your child is, but it can open doors to support, reduce uncertainty, and provide clarity for families and professionals. Once you have a confirmed diagnosis, you can also access appropriate and targeted post-diagnostic care, which can help day-to-day life enormously.
Can a diagnosis help at school?
Yes, a diagnosis can help schools better understand your child’s needs and provide appropriate support, accommodations, and learning strategies. It can help inform an EHCP and a more complete approach to your child's educational needs.
