SEN Professionals
Independent multidisciplinary team offering MDT Neurodevelopmental Assessments for Autism, ADHD and FASD. Team includes Consultant Paediatrician, Consultant Clinical Psychologists, Speech and Language Therapists, Specialist Nurse, and Occupational Therapists. Also offers individual OT, SLT and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy at The Black Barn, Westview Farm, Ash.
Location: Ash, Canterbury, Kent
Areas covered: Kent
About Multidisciplinary Assessment Services
Multidisciplinary teams (MDTs) bring together professionals from different specialisms to provide a comprehensive assessment and support plan for children with complex needs. A typical MDT may include clinical psychologists, speech and language therapists, occupational therapists, paediatricians, and specialist nurses, all working together to build a complete picture of a child's strengths and needs.
For families seeking a neurodevelopmental assessment for autism, ADHD, or related conditions, a multidisciplinary approach is considered gold-standard practice under NICE guidelines. This means the child is assessed from multiple perspectives, leading to more accurate diagnosis and more comprehensive recommendations. MDT reports carry significant weight in EHCP applications and tribunal proceedings.
The assessment process usually involves multiple appointments, including a detailed developmental history, direct assessment of the child, and observation. Parents, schools, and other involved professionals are asked to provide information. The team then meets to discuss their findings and produce a joint report with a shared formulation and recommendations for support.
Areas Served
- Kent
- Ash
- Canterbury
- East Kent
Specialisms
- autism assessment -- Specialist diagnostic assessment for autism
- ADHD assessment -- Specialist diagnostic assessment for ADHD
- FASD -- Assessment and support for Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
- occupational therapy -- Assessment and therapy for everyday functional skills
- speech and language therapy -- Assessment and therapy for communication needs
- CBT -- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
- neurodevelopmental assessment -- Comprehensive assessment for conditions such as autism and ADHD
- sensory processing -- Assessment and support for differences in how children process sensory information
Before Your First Appointment
To get the most from your initial consultation, here are some things to consider:
- Bring relevant documents -- gather any previous reports (e.g. from school, NHS, or other professionals), letters from your child's SENCO, and any diary notes you have kept about your child's development or behaviour.
- Know what to expect -- most first appointments involve an initial assessment or consultation. The professional will want to understand your child's history, current difficulties, and what you hope to achieve. A written report with recommendations typically follows.
- Prepare your child -- explain in age-appropriate terms that they are going to meet someone who will play with them or talk to them, and that this person is there to help. Reassure them that it is not a test they can fail.
- Questions to consider asking -- How long is the assessment process? What will the report include? How many sessions might be needed? Can you provide strategies for home and school? What are the costs and are there any funding options available?
Helpful Resources
These SENDPath guides may be useful as you explore your options:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a multidisciplinary assessment?
A multidisciplinary assessment brings together professionals from different specialisms, such as clinical psychology, speech and language therapy, and occupational therapy, to assess a child's needs from multiple perspectives. This approach is recommended by NICE guidelines for neurodevelopmental assessments and provides a comprehensive understanding of the child's strengths and difficulties.
Will a private multidisciplinary assessment be accepted by the local authority?
Yes. Reports from HCPC-registered professionals are accepted as evidence by local authorities for EHCP applications, regardless of whether they were obtained privately or through the NHS. A multidisciplinary report can carry significant weight because it demonstrates that the child has been assessed by multiple qualified professionals.
How long does a multidisciplinary assessment take?
A full multidisciplinary assessment typically involves multiple appointments over several weeks. Each professional carries out their own assessment, and the team then meets to discuss findings. The full report is usually available within 4-6 weeks of the final appointment. Timescales vary between providers, so check with the service directly.
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