Child Combined ADHD & Autism Assessments in Milton Keynes
Many children who are referred for an ADHD assessment are later found to have autism too, and many children on autism pathways also have co-occurring ADHD. When only one condition is explored, the other can remain undiagnosed, leaving children without the full support they need at school, at home, and in daily life.
At Bloom Clinical, our child combined ADHD and autism assessment in Milton Keynes is a single, integrated pathway that assesses both conditions together. Our specialist team uses gold-standard, NICE-compliant diagnostic tools, and our reports are recognised by schools, local authorities, and the NHS across Milton Keynes and the wider UK.
- Ages 6–18
- No GP Referral Needed
- School & NHS Recognised Reports
- NICE-Compliant Multidisciplinary Assessment
Signs of ADHD and Autism in Children
Signs of ADHD in Children
ADHD in children typically presents as one of three types: predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive, or combined. Common signs include:- Difficulty staying focused on tasks, especially those they find less engaging
- Appearing to ‘switch off’ or daydream during lessons or conversations
- Losing belongings regularly, homework, PE kit, coats, and stationery
- Acting before thinking, blurting out answers, interrupting, and taking risks
- Fidgeting, restlessness, or an inability to stay seated
- Inconsistent academic performance, capable but not fulfilling potential
- Difficulty following multi-step instructions
- Emotional outbursts, low frustration tolerance, or intense reactions to perceived unfairness
- Difficulty organising tasks, starting homework, or managing time
Signs of Autism in Children
Autism presents differently across children, and is frequently missed or misidentified, particularly in girls, who often mask their difficulties more effectively. Common signs include:- Differences in social communication, difficulty making or maintaining friendships, not picking up on social cues
- Preference for playing alone or on their own terms
- Very literal use and understanding of language, difficulty with sarcasm, metaphor, or implied meaning
- Strong attachment to routines, distress when plans change unexpectedly
- Intense, focused interests in specific subjects, objects, or themes
- Sensory sensitivities to noise, light, textures, clothing, food, or smell
- Repetitive behaviours or movements (stimming), rocking, hand-flapping, tapping
- Difficulty understanding or expressing emotions
- Social exhaustion after school, seeming fine at school but ‘melting down’ at home
Where ADHD and Autism Overlap
Several of these traits appear in both conditions, which is exactly why a combined assessment pathway, using tools designed to distinguish between them, gives you the most accurate result. Overlapping areas include:- Executive function difficulties (organisation, planning, task initiation)
- Sensory sensitivities
- Emotional dysregulation and difficulties managing frustration
- Social challenges and relationship difficulties
- Inconsistent academic performance
A Child-Friendly Assessment at Every Step
We understand that coming to a clinical assessment can feel daunting for children and parents alike. Our entire process is designed to be as warm, welcoming, and comfortable as possible for your child.
Clinicians Experienced in Working with Children
Our assessors are experienced in building rapport with children and young people across a wide range of ages and presentations. They use age-appropriate language, visual supports, and a pace led by your child, not a clinical checklist.
A Calm, Child-Appropriate Environment
Our Milton Keynes clinic is designed with children in mind, with welcoming, low-pressure spaces and materials appropriate for different ages and sensory needs. Children can take breaks as needed, and parents are involved throughout in a way that feels supportive rather than overwhelming.
Playful and Observational Assessment Methods
For younger children, our clinicians may use play-based and observational approaches that feel natural and unintimidating. Older children and teenagers are engaged in age-appropriate conversation and tasks that reflect their maturity.
Parents and Carers Are Central to the Process
You know your child better than anyone. Our assessment draws directly on your observations, history, and concerns. Alongside clinical observation and standardised tools, the information you provide as a parent or carer is an essential part of reaching an accurate assessment outcome.
School Information Welcomed
Where parents wish to share school reports, teacher observations, or prior educational psychology assessments, we are happy to incorporate these into the clinical picture. If it would be helpful, we can also provide a consent form to request information from your child’s school directly.
How the Combined Child Assessment Works
Our child combined ADHD and Autism assessment follows a structured, integrated pathway. Here is what the process looks like from start to finish:
- Pre-assessment screening: we send parents and carers a set of validated questionnaires covering ADHD and autism traits, alongside a developmental history form. Where relevant, we may also ask for a teacher’s report or school information.
- Clinical interview with parents and carers: a structured conversation with one of our clinicians covering your child’s developmental history, early milestones, current challenges at home and school, and your specific concerns.
- Combined diagnostic assessment: a clinician-led session with your child using gold-standard tools validated for both ADHD and autism in children, including the ADOS-2 (for autism) and QB Test and Conners 4 (for ADHD). This takes place in person at our Milton Keynes clinic.
- Multidisciplinary team review: all findings from both assessment pathways are reviewed jointly by our clinical team before any conclusions are reached, ensuring accuracy and fairness across both conditions.
- Full written report: a comprehensive report covering both conditions, your child’s diagnosis or diagnoses, clinical observations, and specific recommendations for school support, home strategies, and next steps.
How Long Does the Process Take?
The full combined child assessment typically takes around 8 weeks from initial contact to report delivery. Each clinical session lasts approximately 1 hour. Children’s assessments must be completed in person; online assessments are not available for children.
Where Does the Assessment Take Place?
All child assessments are held in person at our Milton Keynes clinic: Whitsundoles Farm, Broughton Road, Milton Keynes, MK17 8BU. There is free parking on site. Please let us know in advance if your child has any accessibility needs so we can ensure the environment is suitable.
Gold-standard diagnostic tools
We use a comprehensive suite of clinically validated, NICE-compliant diagnostic instruments, not a basic online screening tool. For child combined assessments, these include:
For Autism assessments
ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, 2nd Edition): the internationally recognised gold-standard observational instrument for autism, is administered in person by a trained clinician. Different modules are used depending on your child’s age and language level.
For ADHD assessments
QB Test: a digital neuropsychological assessment that objectively measures activity level, attention, and impulse control through computer-based tasks. Age-appropriate versions are available across the 6–18 range.
Conners 4: a widely validated rating scale for ADHD in children, is completed by parents and teachers, assessing symptoms and their functional impact across home and school settings.
Multidisciplinary Review
Every combined assessment is reviewed by our full clinical team before a diagnosis is confirmed. This multi-clinician approach is not a formality; it is a clinically important safeguard that ensures the findings from both assessment pathways are properly integrated and that overlapping traits are correctly attributed.
Assessment Prices
|
Assessment Type |
Price |
|---|---|
| Child Combined ADHD & Autism Assessment (ages 6–18) |
£3,295 |
|
Child ADHD Assessment (standalone, ages 6–18) |
£1,450 |
|
Child Autism Assessment (standalone) |
£2,125 |
The child combined assessment price is fully inclusive. There are no additional charges for pre-assessment questionnaires, parent interview sessions, diagnostic assessment sessions, multidisciplinary team review, your full written report, or supporting letters for schools, GPs, or local authorities.
Please contact us to discuss our child autism standalone assessment pricing, or if you are unsure which pathway is most appropriate for your child.
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How the Assessment Supports Your Child at School
For many families, getting an assessment is about more than a diagnosis; it’s about getting the right support in place at school. Our reports are specifically written to support that goal.
School and Local Authority Recognition
Our assessments follow NICE guidelines and are conducted by qualified, registered clinicians. Our reports are accepted by state and independent schools, local authorities, and SEN departments across Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, and the wider UK. We regularly support families with reports that inform SEN support plans and education, health and care plans.
Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs)
If your child needs an EHCP, or if you are in the process of applying for one, a comprehensive combined assessment report from Bloom Clinical can form a critical part of the supporting evidence. Our reports include specific, evidence-based recommendations for educational support, learning environment adjustments, and any specialist provision that may be appropriate for your child’s profile.
Exam Access Arrangements
Secondary school pupils with a diagnosis of ADHD, autism, or both may be eligible for exam access arrangements, including extra time, a separate room, or a reader or scribe. Our reports include the clinical evidence needed to support these applications through your child’s school and the Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ).
Why Choose Bloom Clinical for Your Child’s Assessment in Milton Keynes?
Specialist Multidisciplinary Team
Every child assessment at Bloom Clinical involves a team of qualified specialists, not a single clinician working alone. Our assessors hold relevant postgraduate qualifications in neurodevelopmental assessment and are registered with recognised professional bodies. You can view full profiles for each member of our team on our Meet the Team page.
Genuinely Child-Centred Practice
We don’t apply a one-size-fits-all approach to children. Our clinicians adapt their methods to your child’s age, communication style, and sensory needs. The environment, pacing, and language used throughout the assessment are chosen with your child’s comfort in mind. We want children to leave feeling respected and understood, not exhausted or overwhelmed.
Local, In-Person Clinic in Milton Keynes
We are based in Milton Keynes, our team knows the local school landscape, the Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes NHS system, and the local authority processes your child’s report will need to interface with.
Comprehensive Reports Built for Action
Our reports don’t just confirm or rule out a diagnosis. They include specific, practical recommendations for your child’s school, home environment, and next steps, written in clear, accessible language that teachers, and local authority teams can act on.
No GP Referral Needed
You can contact us directly without waiting for a GP referral or CAMHS appointment. Given that NHS waiting times for child neurodevelopmental assessments in the Milton Keynes area can often run to several months or more, a private assessment with Bloom Clinical means your child doesn’t have to wait to get the answers and support they need.
Free Initial Consultation
We offer a free 15-minute consultation for all families considering an assessment. This gives you the chance to talk through your concerns with a member of our team, ask any questions, and receive an honest recommendation about the most appropriate assessment pathway for your child, with no obligation to book.
After the Assessment: Supporting Your Child’s Next Steps
Receiving a diagnosis for your child is the beginning of a new chapter of understanding and support. Our team will talk you through your child’s results and help you plan what comes next.
Understanding the Report
A clinician will walk you through your child’s results and the report’s findings, explaining what the diagnosis means in practical terms for your child’s life at home and at school. You are encouraged to ask questions; we want you to leave fully informed.
ADHD Medication (Where Appropriate)
If ADHD is diagnosed and medication is considered appropriate, we can discuss the options with you and, where relevant, liaise with your child’s GP regarding a paediatric shared care agreement. Medication decisions for children are always made collaboratively, and our team is available to answer questions throughout.
ADHD Medication (Where Appropriate)
If ADHD is diagnosed and medication is considered appropriate, we can discuss the options with you and, where relevant, liaise with your child’s GP regarding a paediatric shared care agreement. Medication decisions for children are always made collaboratively, and our team is available to answer questions throughout.
Post-Diagnostic Support and Therapy
A diagnosis often raises as many questions as it answers, for parents as well as for the child themselves. We can signpost you to trusted therapists, ADHD coaches, and autism support services in the Milton Keynes area who specialise in children and young people. For some families, a period of parent coaching or family therapy following diagnosis can be especially valuable.
Serving Milton Keynes and Surrounding Areas
Our clinic is based at Whitsundoles Farm, Broughton Road, Milton Keynes (MK17 8BU), with free on-site parking and easy access from across the region. We see children and families from throughout Milton Keynes and the surrounding areas, including:
- Bedford, Newport Pagnell, Woburn Sands, and Olney
- Bletchley, Fenny Stratford, and Stony Stratford
- Buckingham, Leighton Buzzard, and Dunstable
If you have any questions about travelling to our clinic with a child, please call us on 01727 530247 and we’ll be happy to help with directions, parking, or accessibility.
FAQs
What ages do you assess for child combined ADHD and autism?
Our child combined assessments are designed for children aged 6–18 years. If your child is outside this age range, please contact us and we will be happy to discuss what options may be available.
Do I need a GP referral to book a child combined assessment?
No. You can contact Bloom Clinical directly without a GP referral or CAMHS referral. Call 01727 530247 or complete our short screening form to begin the process.
How long does the child combined assessment process take?
The full process, from initial contact to receiving your child’s written report, typically takes 8 weeks. Individual sessions last approximately 1 hour each.
Can my child’s assessment be done online?
No. Children’s assessments must be completed in person at our Milton Keynes clinic. In-person assessment is clinically essential for children.
What’s included in the combined assessment price?
The price for the child combined assessment is fully inclusive. It covers all pre-assessment questionnaires, parent and carer interview, diagnostic assessment sessions, multidisciplinary team review, full written report, and supporting letters for schools, GPs, and local authorities. There are no additional charges.
Will the report be accepted by our child’s school and the local authority?
Yes. Our assessments are conducted by qualified, registered clinicians following NICE guidelines. Our reports are recognised by state and independent schools, SEN departments, local authorities, and NHS services across Milton Keynes and throughout the UK. They are designed specifically to support EHCP applications, school support plans, and exam access arrangements.
What diagnostic tools do you use for children?
For autism, we use the ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, 2nd Edition), the gold-standard observational instrument. For ADHD, we use the QB Test, Conners 4 and a structured ADHD interview. All tools are NICE-compliant and age-appropriate.
What happens if only one condition is diagnosed?
If the assessment finds evidence for only one condition, your report will clearly reflect that, along with the clinical reasoning behind the conclusion. If neither condition is confirmed, the report will include our clinical findings and appropriate recommendations for any further assessment or support. We will never give a diagnosis that the evidence does not support.
How do I know if my child needs a combined assessment rather than just ADHD or just autism?
The clearest indication is if your child shows signs of both conditions, for example, both attention and impulsivity difficulties alongside sensory sensitivities, strong routine preferences, or social communication differences. If you are unsure, our free 15-minute consultation is the ideal starting point. Our team will discuss your child’s presentation honestly and recommend the most appropriate pathway.
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Support for ADHD, Mental Health, and Autism
in Adults and Children.
Whether you require a single assessment to gain clarity or prefer ongoing therapy for consistent support, our tailored services are designed to meet your unique needs.
We understand that mental health and neurodevelopmental challenges can impact every aspect of life, from personal relationships to daily routines.
That’s why we focus on providing compassionate, professional care to empower you with understanding and practical strategies. With expert-led assessments and therapy options, we’re here to support you every step of the way, helping you navigate your journey towards improved well-being and confidence.