When ADHD and autism overlap
ADHD and autism frequently occur together, and their features can look similar from the outside. A combined pathway looks at both conditions for your child, so you get one clear picture rather than separate, partial answers.
Attention & focus
ADHD can bring difficulty sustaining attention; autistic people may focus intensely on special interests but struggle with other topics.
Impulsivity
In ADHD it often means acting without thinking; in autism, behaviour may seem abrupt because of rigid thinking or unwritten social rules.
Emotions & routine
Both can involve intense emotional reactions and a reliance on routines — for different underlying reasons.
Sensory differences
Sensitivity to noise, light or textures is common in autism and increasingly recognised in ADHD too.
ADHD is primarily characterised by difficulties with attention, hyperactivity and impulsivity, whereas autism is defined by differences in social communication and restricted or repetitive behaviours. Careful assessment helps tell them apart — or confirm both.
How the assessment works
Every child and young person's assessment follows the same clear, five-stage pathway, so you always know what is happening and why.
Initial contact with our team
We start with a calm, friendly conversation to understand your concerns and decide the best next steps for you or your child. You can contact us by phone or email.
Screening forms
We email you digital forms to complete. These help us understand your or your child's experiences.
- ADHD/autism rating scales (for you or your child, and someone who knows you well)
- Developmental history
- School or teacher questionnaires (if assessing a child)
- Background and wellbeing information
Diagnostic interview
You attend a structured diagnostic interview with one of our clinicians — a calm, supportive conversation. Alongside it we use evidence-based tools suited to age and presentation.
- Standardised ADHD/autism questionnaires
- QbCheck (for ADHD, if appropriate)
- ABAS-3 adaptive functioning tools
- Observational and developmental assessments
- Screening for co-existing or overlapping conditions
Multidisciplinary team (MDT) review
Your assessment is reviewed by our multidisciplinary team, which may include psychiatrists, psychologists and specialist clinicians. This ensures every assessment is NICE-compliant, thorough and clinically safe.
Diagnostic outcome & detailed report
You receive a comprehensive clinical report within 21 working days, including the diagnostic conclusion, a clear explanation of the evidence, tailored recommendations for school, work and home, and signposting to further support. If criteria are not met, we still provide clear guidance and next steps.
Planning a combined assessment
Both pathways begin with the same dual screening. After screening, we will discuss which full diagnostic assessments are recommended and confirm the total cost before anything is booked.
Fees
Cancellations within 7 working days, or non-attendance, are charged in full. Rescheduling within 4 weeks of your appointment incurs a £150 fee. Changes to booked consultation dates outside four weeks incur a £55 administration fee.
We offer a free initial telephone chat to help you understand your options and choose the most suitable pathway.
Why a diagnosis matters
Receiving a diagnosis is not simply a label — it is a framework for understanding yourself. It can:
- Provide long-overdue clarity and self-understanding
- Explain lifelong patterns in learning, behaviour or emotional responses
- Unlock tailored support, coaching and practical strategies
- Improve wellbeing, confidence and day-to-day functioning
- Help schools, employers or families support you better
- Open access to treatment or accommodations where needed