Question 1

Who do you currently assess?

Accepted Answer

Lighthouse Pathways provides ADHD assessment and treatment for adults aged 18 and over, and for children and young people aged 6 and above. We also offer autism assessments and combined ADHD and autism assessments, all of which can be booked online via our services page.

Question 2

Do you assess children or adolescents?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer ADHD, autism and combined ADHD and autism assessment pathways for children and young people aged 6 and above, all of which can be booked via our services page.

Question 3

Do you offer NHS Right to Choose (RTC)?

Accepted Answer

No. At present, Lighthouse Pathways provides private ADHD, autism and combined assessment services only and does not offer NHS Right to Choose referrals. Important: We are unable to accept RTC referrals or place patients on an RTC waiting list until this service is formally available.

Question 4

Is Lighthouse Pathways legitimate?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Lighthouse Pathways is a legitimate UK provider of private ADHD and autism assessments, registered with and regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). All assessments are carried out by clinicians registered with UK professional bodies such as the NMC and HCPC, and our diagnostic process follows NICE guidelines. You can verify our registration independently on the CQC website at any time. We know it is sensible to check any provider carefully before booking an assessment online, and we would encourage you to do exactly that.

Question 5

Which NICE guidelines do your assessments follow?

Accepted Answer

All Lighthouse Pathways assessments are aligned with the relevant NICE guideline for the condition and age group being assessed: Adult ADHD: Our adult ADHD assessments follow NICE guideline NG87 and use the DIVA-5, alongside clinical history and supporting information where available., Child ADHD: Our child ADHD assessments follow NICE guideline NG87, considering developmental history and symptoms across home, education and other settings., Adult autism: Our adult autism assessments follow NICE guideline CG142, using clinical interviews, developmental history and recognised assessment tools., Child autism: Our child autism assessments follow NICE guideline CG128, considering development and presentation across home, education and other settings., Combined ADHD and autism: Our combined assessments follow NICE NG87 for ADHD, alongside CG142 for adults or CG128 for children for autism..

Question 6

What should I do if I think I have ADHD?

Accepted Answer

Many people seek assessment because they notice long-standing patterns affecting daily life. An assessment helps clarify whether ADHD or another condition may be contributing.

Question 7

What is ADHD?

Accepted Answer

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a diagnosis given to people who have challenges with: inattention-finding it hard to concentrate; hyperactivity-feeling restless and struggling to sit still; impulsivity-saying or doing things without thinking about the consequences first. For people with ADHD, these challenges usually begin in childhood and for most people they continue as they grow up, though they may change or improve. These challenges will also affect someone in many areas of their life.

Question 8

How common is ADHD in adults?

Accepted Answer

ADHD affects about 3 to 4 in every 100 adults. It is more common in people who have a sibling or close family member with ADHD, epilepsy, neurodevelopmental conditions, mental illnesses, or a history of alcohol or drug misuse, or an acquired brain injury.

Question 9

When does ADHD start and how does it change over time?

Accepted Answer

General Presentation: ADHD symptoms are often first identified in childhood but can manifest or become challenging at any life stage. The expression is unique to the individual, influenced by personality, environment, and support systems., Childhood: Hyperactive and impulsive symptoms are typically more prominent during childhood. These symptoms may become less challenging for some individuals over time., Adolescence and Adulthood: Inattentive symptoms often become more pronounced during the teenage years and into adulthood. Life transitions, such as starting work or education, living independently, managing finances, and navigating relationships, can present new challenges. Increased responsibilities and stressors in adulthood, such as parenthood, may further exacerbate difficulties..

Question 10

Trusted Resources

Accepted Answer

Here are some trusted resources for learning more about ADHD: NHS - ADHD overview, NHS - ADHD in children, NICE - ADHD clinical guidance (NG87), ADHD UK.

Question 11

What is autism?

Accepted Answer

Autism (also referred to as autism spectrum condition, or ASC) is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition. It affects how a person communicates and interacts with others, and how they experience and make sense of the world around them. Autism is not an illness or disease. It is a difference in how the brain develops and processes information, and it presents differently in every person. Common experiences include: Differences in social communication and interaction, for example finding unwritten social rules difficult or finding small talk effortful, Sensory differences, such as heightened or reduced sensitivity to sounds, lights, textures, taste or smell, A strong preference for routines and predictability, and difficulty when things change unexpectedly, Repetitive behaviours or deeply focused interests, Differences in emotional regulation, Masking or camouflaging, meaning suppressing autistic traits to appear "neurotypical", often at significant personal cost. Autism is present across all genders, ethnicities and backgrounds. It is often identified in childhood, but many people, particularly women, girls and people who mask effectively, are not diagnosed until adulthood. Autism and ADHD frequently co-occur; where both may be present, a combined assessment considers the full neurodevelopmental picture in a joined-up way.

Question 12

Who is an autism assessment suitable for?

Accepted Answer

An autism assessment may be suitable for people who experience some or many of the following: Social communication or social interaction differences, Sensory sensitivities, for example to sounds, lights, textures, taste or smell, A strong preference for routines, difficulty with transitions, or significant distress when plans change, Repetitive behaviours or intensely focused interests, Difficulty navigating social rules and expectations, Emotional regulation difficulties, Masking, camouflaging or burnout, meaning expending significant effort to appear "neurotypical", Unexplained difficulties at school, work, in relationships or in daily functioning. These experiences are not a checklist. A formal assessment considers your individual presentation, developmental history and current functioning. If you are unsure whether an autism assessment is right for you or your child, contact us via our enquiry form and our team will help.

Question 13

Do you offer autism assessments?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer autism assessments for adults (18+) and for children and young people aged 6 to 17. You can book online directly - no GP referral needed. If you would like to talk it through first, our team is happy to help. Book your autism assessment, Or contact us with any questions.

Question 14

Do you offer combined ADHD and autism assessments?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer combined pathways for adults and children (ages 6 to 17) where both ADHD and autism may be present, considering the full neurodevelopmental picture in one joined-up assessment. See "How much is a combined ADHD and autism assessment?" in Pricing & Payment for current pricing. Book your combined ADHD and autism assessment.

Question 15

How do I get an ADHD assessment?

Accepted Answer

You can self-refer directly. The process includes questionnaires and a detailed clinical history before your appointment. You do not need a letter from your GP to get a private ADHD assessment.

Question 16

What happens during an ADHD assessment?

Accepted Answer

A structured clinical conversation explores symptoms, childhood history, and current functioning, supported by evidence-based tools and clinical judgement.

Question 17

Which assessment tools are used in an ADHD assessment?

Accepted Answer

Clinicians may use validated assessment tools, which may include: QbCheck or QbTest: Computerised objective testing of attention and activity, DIVA-5: Diagnostic Interview for ADHD in adults, Rating scales and questionnaires, Collateral history where appropriate.

Question 18

Is the ADHD assessment online or face to face?

Accepted Answer

ADHD assessments are completed online through secure video consultation, so you can attend from home or another private space anywhere in the UK. We do not currently offer face-to-face ADHD assessments.

Question 19

Who will carry out my ADHD assessment?

Accepted Answer

Your assessment will be conducted by an experienced specialist clinician registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), or the General Medical Council (GMC).

Question 20

What happens during a child or young person's ADHD assessment?

Accepted Answer

A child ADHD assessment involves more than one stage. This typically includes a structured clinical conversation with a parent or carer covering developmental history, behaviour and education, a conversation with the young person where age and circumstances allow, and review of school information and age-appropriate rating scales. The clinician will consider all likely explanations for the difficulties, not only ADHD. A written report with recommendations is provided following the assessment. A detailed conversation with a parent or carer:: The clinician will ask about your child’s early development, health, family history, behaviour, education and everyday life. They will explore concerns about attention, activity levels and impulsivity, including when these difficulties began and how they affect your child., Your child’s perspective:: Where their age and circumstances allow, the clinician will speak with your child or young person about their experiences at home, at school and in social situations., Information from school and other settings:: Available school reports, teacher feedback and other supporting documents help the clinician understand whether difficulties occur across different settings and how they affect learning, relationships and day-to-day functioning., Age-appropriate screening questionnaires:: These help organise information and identify areas to explore further. They form one part of the assessment and do not confirm or rule out ADHD on their own.. The clinician will consider all the information together, including other possible explanations for your child’s difficulties and any needs that may exist alongside ADHD.

Question 21

What if school reports or other supporting documents are not available before the appointment?

Accepted Answer

Please do not worry if some documents are still outstanding. The clinician can proceed with the appointment using the information available at the time. If they identify any gaps, they will explain what additional information is needed and how it will help the assessment.

Supporting documents, including school reports or teacher feedback, can still be submitted and reviewed after the appointment to inform the final diagnostic decision. If further evidence is needed before a conclusion can be reached, the clinician will explain this to you; attending the appointment does not necessarily mean a diagnosis can be confirmed that day. Once the assessment is complete and the necessary information has been reviewed, you will receive a written report explaining the outcome and recommendations for support, whether or not ADHD is diagnosed.

Question 22

How much is a private ADHD assessment?

Accepted Answer

The Diagnostic Assessment is a one-time fee of £750

Question 23

How much is a Fast-Track ADHD assessment?

Accepted Answer

Our Fast-Track Diagnostic Assessment (within 7 days) is £975. Following your diagnosis, subsequent treatment is available at £550.

Question 24

How much is a child ADHD assessment?

Accepted Answer

Child ADHD Assessment and Diagnosis Pathway (ages 6 to 17): £950.

Question 25

Is the autism assessment online or face to face?

Accepted Answer

Our autism and combined ADHD and autism assessments are completed online through secure video appointments. You will need: A quiet, private space, Reliable internet access, A device with a working camera and microphone, For children, a parent or carer available where required. Combined ADHD and autism assessments may take place over two to three appointments, depending on age, complexity and clinical need. If an online assessment is not clinically suitable, we will discuss this with you and advise on the most appropriate next step. We do not currently offer routine face-to-face autism assessments.

Question 26

Why are there no local professionals available in person?

Accepted Answer

Lighthouse Pathways is a digital-first service, so our assessments are delivered remotely rather than through local clinics. This allows patients and families to access UK-registered specialist clinicians without travelling, and can make appointments easier to attend from home or another private space. Although the assessment is online, it is still completed by appropriately qualified clinicians working within our clinical governance framework.

Question 27

What is included in an autism assessment?

Accepted Answer

Every autism assessment includes: Pre-assessment questionnaires, Two online appointments with two specialist clinicians: a developmental history appointment and an autism observation appointment, A clinical discussion between the two clinicians to agree the outcome, A feedback call with a clinician, A comprehensive written report, Practical recommendations and next steps, including for home and education for children. Both appointments are needed to complete the assessment.

Question 28

Why are there two appointments?

Accepted Answer

An autism assessment draws on information from different sources and different stages of life. The developmental history appointment explores early development, experiences and current needs. The autism observation appointment allows a specialist clinician to understand aspects of communication and social interaction. After both appointments, the two clinicians review all the information together before agreeing the outcome.

Question 29

Do the appointments have to take place in a particular order?

Accepted Answer

No. The developmental history and autism observation appointments can take place in either order, depending on clinician availability. The order does not affect the quality or outcome of the assessment.

Question 30

Do I have to book both appointments myself?

Accepted Answer

When you book online, you register your details and book your first appointment. We will then send you a separate booking link or contact you to arrange the second. The two appointments can take place in either order, and the assessment is complete once both have taken place and we have received all the required information.

Question 31

Who will carry out my autism assessment?

Accepted Answer

Two specialist clinicians, each completing a different part of the assessment. After both appointments, they hold a clinical discussion to review all the information together and agree the outcome. Our clinicians are registered with UK professional bodies such as the NMC and HCPC.

Question 32

Which assessment tools are used in an autism assessment?

Accepted Answer

Your clinicians will select recognised assessment tools based on your individual needs. These may include tools such as the ADOS-2 and ADI-R where clinically appropriate, but not every tool is suitable or required in every case.

Question 33

Who attends the developmental history appointment?

Accepted Answer

Adults: You attend with an informant who knew you during childhood, such as a parent, carer, sibling, other relative or someone else who knew you well. Completing an informant questionnaire does not replace attending this appointment., Children and young people: A parent, carer or another adult who knows the child's developmental history attends. They should be able to describe the child's early development, communication, social interaction, behaviour and interests, experiences at home and school, and current strengths and support needs. The child does not usually need to attend unless the clinical team advises otherwise..

Question 34

Why is an informant needed for an adult autism assessment?

Accepted Answer

Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition, so information about your early childhood is an important part of the assessment. Your informant helps the clinician build a fuller picture of your development, experiences and needs over time.

Question 35

Can adults be assessed for autism if they do not have a parent or childhood informant?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in many cases. Not every adult has someone who knew them as a child. Please contact us before booking, or as soon as possible after booking, so a clinician can consider other developmental evidence, such as: School reports, Medical or developmental records, Previous assessment reports, Information from a partner, friend or someone who has known you for a significant period. You may be able to provide a detailed self-reported developmental history, together with any supporting evidence available from other sources or anyone who knows or knew you really well. We may not be able to reach a diagnostic conclusion where essential developmental information is unavailable.

Question 36

Who attends the autism observation appointment?

Accepted Answer

Adults: You attend with one of our specialist clinicians., Children and young people: Your child attends with a specialist clinician. A parent or carer may need to stay nearby, particularly for younger children.. Your appointment confirmation will explain how to prepare and, for children, whether and how a parent or carer should be involved.

Question 37

How should I prepare for the autism observation appointment?

Accepted Answer

Please attend from a quiet, private space (a familiar one for children) with a reliable internet connection and a device with a working camera and microphone. For one of the activities, please gather seven small everyday items from around your home, for example: A pencil, A teaspoon, A bottle top, A paperclip, An elastic band, A key, A button, A piece of string. You only need seven. Please use items you already have rather than buying anything. For children, a parent or carer should gather the items and supervise their use, as some small items may not be suitable for younger children. This instruction is also included in your appointment confirmation.

Question 38

What information will you need for my child's autism assessment?

Accepted Answer

Before the assessment, we will usually ask for: Parent or carer questionnaires, Information about your child's developmental history, School or SENCO information, where available, Previous reports, such as CAMHS, EHCP, IEP, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, psychology or paediatric reports, Education plans, details of existing support or reasonable adjustments, Details of any current medical, mental health, risk or safeguarding concerns, A short "About Me" form for your child, where appropriate. Please send what you have by the deadline in your welcome email. You do not need every document before contacting us, and we will let you know if anything essential is missing.

Question 39

Will you contact my child's school?

Accepted Answer

We may ask for information from your child's school or college as part of the assessment. We will explain what is needed and ask for your consent before contacting anyone.

Question 40

Can my child have an autism assessment if they already have another diagnosis, such as OCD, anxiety or ADHD?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Having an existing diagnosis does not automatically prevent a child from having an autism assessment. The clinician will consider the child's full developmental and clinical picture, including: Existing diagnoses, Current symptoms and difficulties, Developmental history, Presentation at home and school, Sensory and communication needs, Emotional wellbeing, Previous professional reports. Some features of autism can overlap with OCD, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, learning needs or other conditions. The purpose of the assessment is to understand which explanation, or combination of explanations, best fits the child's experiences. Where a child's presentation is particularly complex, the clinical team may request further information or recommend additional specialist input before confirming an outcome.

Question 41

How long does an autism assessment take?

Accepted Answer

The two appointments add up to approximately 3 to 5 hours of consultation time in total. The length of each appointment varies depending on age, circumstances and the information that needs to be discussed.

Question 42

What happens if my child needs a break?

Accepted Answer

Please tell the clinician if your child becomes tired, overwhelmed or needs a break. Appointments are carried out sensitively and adapted where possible to meet your child's needs.

Question 43

What happens if I need to rearrange one of my appointments?

Accepted Answer

Please contact us as soon as possible. Rearranging one appointment will not cancel the other, but it may delay the clinical discussion, feedback call and written report.

Question 44

How much is a private autism assessment?

Accepted Answer

The current published prices are: Adult Autism Assessment and Diagnosis Pathway: £1,795, Child Autism Assessment and Diagnosis Pathway (ages 6 to 17): £1,995. Fees cover the pre-assessment questionnaires, two online appointments with two specialist clinicians, their clinical discussion, a feedback call and a comprehensive written report with recommendations. Prices and offers may change, so please check the website before booking. You can book online via our services page, or contact the team with any questions.

Question 45

How much is a combined ADHD and autism assessment?

Accepted Answer

The current published prices are: Adult Combined ADHD and Autism Pathway: £2,195, Child Combined ADHD and Autism Pathway (ages 6 to 17): £2,495. Combined assessments are completed over 2 to 3 online appointments, usually totalling around 3 to 5 hours of clinical assessment time. The fee covers all clinical appointments, the full diagnostic assessment and a written report with outcome and recommendations. Prices and offers may change, so please check the website or contact the team before booking.

Question 46

How long does an ADHD assessment take?

Accepted Answer

The clinical appointment typically lasts 60 to 90 minutes for adults, 90 to 120 minutes for children. The diagnostic outcome will be given on the same day if possible.

Question 47

How long are the waiting times?

Accepted Answer

Your assessment is scheduled within 14 days of booking, or within 7 days on our Fast-Track pathway. For comparison, NHS ADHD assessment waits can exceed 2 years (NHS England independent ADHD Taskforce, June 2025). Many private clinics also carry long waits for a first appointment. See: How long will I have to wait for an NHS ADHD assessment?

Question 48

Do you offer a Fast Track option?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our Fast-Track pathway offers priority booking, with your assessment within 7 days of booking and your written report following within a further 7 days. It's built for deadlines: a Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA) application, evidence to support exam access arrangements, a university start date, or starting a new job.

Question 49

Is the price the same wherever I live in the UK?

Accepted Answer

Yes. As a fully remote service, our pricing is the same across the UK.

Question 50

Can I be assessed if I live outside the UK?

Accepted Answer

Assessments may be offered remotely but we will be unable to prescribe medication as regulations vary internationally.

Question 51

How long will I have to wait for an NHS ADHD assessment?

Accepted Answer

NHS waits for an ADHD assessment are long, and for many people they run into years rather than months. A national survey for NHS England's independent ADHD Taskforce (June 2025) found that 40% of respondents had waited two years or more, with some adults facing waits of up to eight years, and figures as high as 10 to 15 years reported in parts of the country. If you're currently on that list, we understand how draining that uncertainty can be. At Lighthouse Pathways, your assessment is scheduled within 14 days of booking, or within 7 days on our Fast-Track pathway. Independent ADHD Taskforce report (NHS England, June 2025).

Question 52

How long will I have to wait for an NHS autism assessment?

Accepted Answer

NHS autism assessment waiting lists are under real strain. As of June 2026, almost 295,000 people were waiting for an assessment, and around 9 in 10 had already waited longer than the 13-week standard recommended by NICE, with average waits in some areas reported as high as three years. If that wait sounds familiar from your own experience, you're far from alone. At Lighthouse Pathways, your first assessment appointment is scheduled within 14 days of booking. NHS autism statistics (NHS Digital, July 2025 to June 2026).

Question 53

What happens after my ADHD assessment?

Accepted Answer

You will receive a comprehensive written diagnostic report summarising the findings and conclusion. This includes guidance on next steps, treatment recommendations, signposting, or practical strategies.

Question 54

When will I receive my ADHD report?

Accepted Answer

Your written diagnostic report follows within 14 days of your assessment, or within a further 7 days on our Fast-Track pathway.

Question 55

What if I'm not diagnosed with ADHD?

Accepted Answer

Not receiving a diagnosis does not mean your difficulties are not real or valid. Your clinician will explain the outcome and may suggest alternative explanations or next steps. Trusted Support Resources: NHS self-help, NHS Talking Therapies, Mind, National Autistic Society, Mental Health Foundation, Rethink Mental Illness, YoungMinds.

Question 56

What happens after my autism assessment?

Accepted Answer

After both appointments: The two clinicians hold a clinical discussion to review your questionnaires, developmental history, observation findings and supporting information, including school information for children, They agree the assessment outcome, A clinician contacts you for a feedback call, Your comprehensive written report is finalised and sent to you.

Question 57

Will I receive my outcome during either appointment?

Accepted Answer

No. Neither appointment is considered on its own. Both clinicians complete their part of the assessment and discuss all the information together before reaching an outcome, which is then explained on your feedback call.

Question 58

What is the feedback call?

Accepted Answer

After the clinical discussion, a clinician calls you (or the parent or carer, for children) to: Explain the assessment outcome and what it means, Talk through the recommendations and next steps, Identify any information, adjustments or support to send to you.

Question 59

When will I receive my autism report?

Accepted Answer

Your comprehensive written report follows within 14 days of your final appointment, once we have received all required questionnaires, informant or school information and supporting documents. More complex assessments may take longer, and we will let you know if we need further information.

Question 60

What will my autism report include?

Accepted Answer

Your report includes: The information considered during your assessment, Relevant developmental and clinical history, Findings from both appointments, The assessment outcome and what it means, Individual strengths and areas of difficulty, Practical recommendations and next steps, including for home and education for children.

Question 61

Will a private autism or combined diagnosis be accepted by my GP, school, university or employer?

Accepted Answer

Our assessments are completed by appropriately qualified clinicians. Our reports are comprehensive, aligned with relevant NICE guidance and produced within our CQC-regulated clinical governance framework. They include the assessment findings, diagnostic formulation, outcome and practical recommendations. Many patients use their report to support discussions with: GPs, Schools and SENCOs, Colleges and universities, Employers and occupational health teams, Other healthcare professionals. However, each organisation has its own policies and decision-making processes. Lighthouse Pathways cannot guarantee that every GP, school, university or employer will automatically accept the diagnosis or act on every recommendation. For children and young people, the report can provide supporting clinical evidence for school support, reasonable adjustments and discussions about SEN or EHCP processes. It is not the same as an educational psychology report, specialist therapy assessment or tribunal-specific expert report.

Question 62

Can autism be treated with medication?

Accepted Answer

No. There is no medication specifically used to treat autism. Your report may include practical recommendations, reasonable adjustments, signposting or suggestions for additional support. Some people have co-occurring ADHD, anxiety or other conditions that may benefit from separate treatment. If ADHD is also diagnosed by Lighthouse Pathways, medication can be started through our Initiation Session (£550).

Question 63

What treatment options are available?

Accepted Answer

Treatment is personalised and may include medication (stimulants or non-stimulants), psychological support, psychoeducation, lifestyle strategies, ADHD coaching, or a combination of approaches.

Question 64

Will I be offered medication?

Accepted Answer

Medication is discussed if clinically appropriate, but it is always optional and based on shared decision-making. Your clinician will explain the potential benefits and risks.

Your Questions Answered:

Navigating the ADHD Pathway

About Our ADHD Self Screening Tool

ADHD Medication Reviews & Repeat Prescriptions

ADHD Treatment & Medication

How the ADHD Assessment Works

How the Autism & Combined Assessment Works

Pricing & Payment

Security, Crisis Support & Useful Tools

Service Scope & Eligibility

Understanding ADHD

Understanding Autism

Wait Times

Working With Your GP

Your ADHD Appointment & Waiting Times

Your ADHD Results & Next Steps

Your Autism Results & Next Steps

Ready to Find Clarity?