Understanding Autism in Children and Adolescents
Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) can appear in a wide variety of ways in children, influencing social interaction, communication, behaviour, and sensory processing. Some children may communicate fluently but find social cues challenging, while others may be non-verbal or display repetitive actions. How autism presents can also differ by gender. Girls, for instance, may mask difficulties to fit in socially, appearing to cope while experiencing internal stress and exhaustion.
A child autism assessment in Kent provides families with insight into their child’s unique profile. It highlights strengths, identifies areas where support is needed, and helps parents, carers, and educators respond effectively to the child’s individual needs.
Our Approach to Adolescent and Child Autism Assessments
Oasis Psychological Services offers child autism assessments that are tailored to the developmental stage and needs of each child. The process is designed to be thorough, supportive, and child-centred:
Information Gathering
Parents and carers complete questionnaires detailing developmental history and behaviour. Input from teachers or other carers is often included to gain a full picture of the child across different environments.
Child-Centred Sessions
Clinical Psychologists conduct structured observations and interactive sessions, assessing social communication, flexibility, sensory preferences, and interaction skills. Standardised tools such as the ADOS-2 support a thorough and accurate evaluation.
Family Consultation
Parents and carers meet with the clinician to review observations, share daily experiences, and discuss any concerns. This consultation ensures the assessment reflects the child’s complete lived experience.
Detailed Reporting and Recommendations
After the assessment, families receive a comprehensive report outlining diagnostic findings, the child’s strengths, and practical strategies for support at home, in school, and in daily life. Guidance is provided on social skills, emotional wellbeing, and learning approaches, helping families plan meaningful support.
Comprehensive and NICE-compliant Autism Assessments in Kent
Recognising Autism in Girls
Autism can present differently in girls, making early recognition more challenging. Girls may be quieter or socially adaptable, using masking strategies to manage expectations at school or with peers. While they may appear to cope well, this can come at the cost of emotional exhaustion, anxiety, and stress.
These children are sometimes mislabelled as shy, sensitive, or anxious, and their abilities, such as empathy and creativity, can obscure the need for support. Early identification of autism in girls allows families to access targeted strategies and guidance that meet the child’s actual needs rather than responding to perceived behaviours.
Understanding Demand Avoidance in Autism
Some children and adolescents on the autism spectrum may show behaviours associated with a Persistent Drive for Autonomy, sometimes called a PDA profile. For these children, everyday expectations can feel overwhelming, triggering stress or anxiety responses. Behaviours such as refusal, distraction, negotiation, or withdrawal are often coping strategies to manage situations that feel unpredictable or pressuring.
Recognising these behaviours as part of the child’s neurodevelopmental profile rather than mislabelling them ensures that strategies are compassionate and practical. Our assessments consider demand avoidance within the context of the child’s overall needs, helping families implement approaches that reduce stress and promote wellbeing.
Why Choose Us for Adolescent and Child Autism Assessments in Kent
Our clinicians have extensive experience in both NHS and private practice, specialising in child autism and related neurodevelopmental conditions. Private assessments provide flexible, timely, and supportive care for families across Kent. We follow evidence-based guidelines, including NICE recommendations, and adopt a neuroaffirming perspective that values each child’s individuality and unique strengths.
Contact Us for Adolescent and Child Autism Assessments in Kent
If you think your child may be on the autism spectrum, arranging a child autism assessment in Kent can provide clarity and practical guidance. Contact Oasis Psychological Services today to discuss your child’s needs and begin a supportive assessment journey.