Ethical Statement

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At Spectrum Sisters, we recognise that paying privately for an autism and/or ADHD assessment can feel complex, particularly within a healthcare system where many believe support should be universally accessible. We share the view that timely, high-quality assessments should be available to everyone, and we continue to advocate for improvements in public provision.

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Our service exists in response to a significant gap — particularly for women, who are often missed, misunderstood, or face long waiting times within statutory pathways. We want to be transparent that our assessment model is not designed to be the quickest or lowest-cost option. It is intentionally thorough, reflective, and collaborative. Each assessment includes multiple elements, such as detailed clinical interviews, developmental history, review of relevant documents, and careful exploration of strengths, experiences, and context.

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Assessments involve multiple clinicians and are reviewed within a multidisciplinary panel. This is a deliberate safeguard to support accuracy, reduce bias, and ensure that conclusions are thoughtful, robust, and ethically grounded. Our approach aligns with NICE guidelines and reflects current best practice in neurodevelopmental assessment. We use up-to-date, evidence-informed methods and draw on specialist knowledge of the presentation of autism and ADHD in women and girls. All clinicians involved have specific training and experience in female presentations, alongside a deep understanding of masking and the ways neurodivergence can be overlooked.

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We spend many hours with each client, allowing space for careful understanding rather than rushing to conclusions. Our reports are detailed — often around 55 pages —  include functional assessments, potential differential and/or co-occurring diagnoses, and aim to provide meaningful formulation and practical insight, not simply a diagnostic outcome.  We also provide a neurodevelopmental wellbeing report alongside detailed recommendations and offer post-diagnostic support. This differs from brief assessment models where an individual may have a short appointment and receive a brief diagnostic letter. Neither approach is inherently right or wrong, but they serve different needs. 

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While private healthcare is inherently costly, we aim to keep our fees as low as possible relative to the significant clinician time involved, including extended appointments, preparation, multidisciplinary review, and detailed reporting.  However, as a service grounded in social work values, we are mindful that cost can be a barrier and we want our service to be as accessible to all as possible. We offer payment plans and reduced fees for individuals on means-tested benefits or experiencing financial hardship, and we approach conversations about cost with openness and compassion.

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Whilst we recognise this model will not be the right fit for everyone, we support individuals in choosing the pathway that best meets their needs.

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If you are suffering from financial hardship but would like to discuss options for an assessment please contact us .