Basic Psychological Assessment

A basic psychological assessment is completed by one of our Senior Clinical Psychologists. We will discuss your current concerns and determine what, if any, further assessment or treatment might be appropriate.  In this appointment we can discuss:

  • Psychological and mental health issues
  • Neurodevelopmental indicators for autism and ADHD
  • Learning Difficulties
  • Language Impairment
  • Motor and coordination problems
  • Significant life events and circumstances
  • Self harm

A basic assessment will give you an idea about what might be underlining your difficulties. We may also be able to rule out certain conditions and disorders such as autism following a basic assessment. If appropriate, we will be able to recommend evidence based treatments available in Sheffield which could be useful for you. We can also recommend further specialist assessment where indicated.

We cannot provide a formal diagnosis following a basic assessment. Making a formal diagnosis of a psychological or developmental disorder is a complex process that requires several appointments and often the involvement of an interdisciplinary team.  For diagnostic assessment services please see our specific specialist assessment pages or complete specialist psychological  assessment service pages.

Price

A basic assessment is costed at £500. If following a basic assessment you decide you would like further more specialist assessment and advice, we will deduct this cost from the total price of a condition specific or complete assessment.

How long will the assessment take?

We hope to complete a basic assessment within one 90 minute appointment but will extend this if necessary at no extra cost, to give you the best service possible.We will also offer you a follow up appointment (either in person or over the phone) to discuss the findings of the assessment and our recommendations.

What will be involved in the assessment?

Following an initial phone consultation we will arrange to see you for the assessment at a convenient time and place.  Prior to the assessment we will send you some questionnaires and paper work to complete.  This will include a consent form, a copy of our data protection and safety agreements, along with some questionnaires which will help us plan you assessment.  The assessment will involve us asking you questions about your difficulties and talking with you about your life.  Assessments can be completed with family members present or with an individual on their own.  For young people under 18 years of age, we must have an adult with parental responsibility or special guardianship present for at least part of the assessment.

Anxiety about assessments

Many people feel anxious about coming for a psychological assessment and meeting someone new.  All our consultants have extensive experience working with children, young people and adults and have been hand picked for their ability to make people feel comfortable and safe.  Please let us know if you or your child feel anxious about the assessment and we will think of some ways to help.

Where will the assessment take place?

A basic assessment can take place in a neutral setting such as a school, or well-being centre in Sheffield. We are able to offer video appointments and home visits across Sheffield and surrounding areas.

What will happen after the assessment appointment?

After the assessment is complete, we will take all the information you have given us away to think about and draw together into a formulation.  This is a psychological theory about what is going on for you. We need a little time to do this in order to get it right and seek support from colleagues where needed. We will then offer you a follow-up appointment either in person or over the phone to discuss the formulation and any recommendations we have about what might be helpful.  We will provide you and your GP with a report of our findings.   We aim to complete this process within two weeks of your assessment.

How can I arrange a basic assessment?

Please contact Cerebro using the links provided

What if I am not happy with the assessment?

Please see our FAQ section for advice on what to do if you are unhappy with the service you have received.