New service offering private autism and ADHD assessments

A new service will provide private autism, ADHD, and mental health assessments to people across the county.

HealthCare in Mind has been launched in Oxfordshire to reduce the current long waiting time for mental health support and to improve access to quality diagnoses.

With NHS waiting times for autism and ADHD assessments stretching from one to two years, the service offers an alternative to those looking for immediate support.

It is now live in Oxfordshire and allows patients to book both remote and in-person appointments.

People can use it to access diagnostic assessments for children and adults, as well as therapy treatments for managing conditions such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and mood disorders.

The service is led by Dr Simon Le Clerc and Dr Kate Higham, supported by a team of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists.

Dr Le Clerc said: “Cases of adults and children seeking answers about their mental health and the way they experience the world have risen dramatically in Oxfordshire, and NHS waiting lists are struggling to keep up.

“It is not uncommon for wait times of up to a year for a first appointment for ADHD, autism, and mental health assessments, and after assessment there are further waiting lists for accessing therapy treatments to help people manage their conditions.

“By offering private, tailored neurodiversity assessments, we can offer an option to families and individuals in need of a quicker solution.”