FAQ's
We are here to help. Here are some of the most common queries we receive
We offer a range of neurodevelopmental assessments for children and adolescents from 2 years of age:
Assessment Services:
- Autism Assessments
- Speech and Language Therapy Assessments
- Occupational Therapy Assessments
- Physiotherapy Assessments
- Dyslexia Assessments
- Dyscalculia Assessments
Our autism assessments are conducted by a multidisciplinary team, typically including a Clinical, Educational or Counselling Psychologist, supported by a CORU-registered Occupational Therapist or Speech and Language Therapist.
Assessments may include:
• Clinical interviews with parents or caregivers
• Direct observation of your child
• Review of developmental history, school reports and structured activities
All clinicians follow NICE best practice guidelines.
We assess children and teens from 2 years old to 18 years old. We tailor the entire process based on your child’s age and developmental needs.
Yes. Our sector-leading diagnostic reports are recognised by the HSE and educational systems across Ireland. They are comprehensive, clear, and tailored to your child’s developmental profile.
We follow internationally recognised evidence-based tools, including:
- ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised)
- ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule- Second edition)
These are used alongside clinical observation and developmental history.
The ADI‑R (Autism Diagnostic Interview – Revised) is a gold standard diagnostic tool used in the autism assessment process and designed to help our psychologists comprehensively understand your child’s developmental journey.
It involves an in‑depth conversation between you [parent/care giver] and one of our psychologists. It usually takes place online and it explores your child’s early development, communication and social interaction, repetitive or restricted interests and behaviours. This session helps ensure we build a complete, accurate picture of their strengths, and ways of experiencing the world
The ADOS‑2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule – Second Edition) is a semi-structured, standardised tool used in the assessment of autism. Your child will come to our clinic for this in‑person part of an autism assessment. It is tailored to your child’s age and communication style.
Your child will meet with a psychologist and either a speech and language therapist or an occupational therapist, who observe how they communicate and interact through natural activities.
– Younger children: play‑based activities
– Older children/teens: activities + relaxed conversation
– Always tailored to their age and communication style
The ADOS‑2 allows our Multidisciplinary team understand how your child communicates, interacts, and expresses themselves in a supportive, comfortable environment. Combined with the ADI‑R and other information, it contributes to a comprehensive clinical evaluation.
Step 1: Enquire & Book
Our team answers your initial questions and guides you through the process.
Step 2: Comprehensive Assessment and Diagnosis (where applicable)
This detailed evaluation takes place across two appointments
Step 2 A: Online Parent Consultation [Online]
The consultation is carried out online with one of our expert Psychologists. It is designed to get a broad understanding of your child and possible diagnoses. It will involve a structured interview called the ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview- Revised) It will take 1 to 2 hours, depending on your child’s age and history
Step 2B: In-Person Autism Assessment with your Child
The in-person assessment is where you and your child will attend our clinic for a standardised, play‑based assessment known as the ADOS‑2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule – Second Edition).
During this session, the Psychologist – together with either a Speech and Language Therapist or an Occupational Therapist – engages directly with your child. This typically takes 60 minutes, shorter for younger children.
Step 3: Report & Online Feedback session
Once the assessments are completed our multidisciplinary team will prepare comprehensive written report. We’ll arrange an online feedback session where you can review and discuss the findings with the psychologist and explore the recommended next steps and supports.
Your assessment appointment is very important to us at Constellation Healthcare. Each appointment is reserved exclusively for you and your child, and significant clinical preparation takes place in advance. We understand that schedules occasionally need to change. To support all families fairly, we ask that you provide:
- At least 72 hours’ notice for cancelling or rescheduling any assessment appointment.
Providing adequate notice gives us time to offer the appointment to another child awaiting assessment.
If you cancel, reschedule, or do not attend your appointment without the required 72 hours’ notice, a Did Not Attend (DNA) fee of 50% of the assessment price will apply.
If you arrive late for your assessment, we will do our best to accommodate you. However, late arrival may result in a shortened or, in some cases, cancelled appointment. A cancelled appointment due to late arrival will be treated in line with the fee terms above.
Our goal is to ensure fair access to assessment services for all families while maintaining the highest standards of clinical care.
This depends on your specific insurer and individual policy. Some plans provide partial reimbursement. We recommend contacting your insurer directly to confirm coverage.
We know assessments can feel unfamiliar. Here’s how to support your child:
• Keep it simple. Talk to them about why they’re coming — that it is not a test, but rather a chance to explore what’s been tricky for them at home or in school.
• Let them prepare. Encourage them to jot down thoughts or questions. This can help them feel more confident about sharing with their clinician.
• Explain what to expect. Let them know that the clinician may ask them to complete some activities or games, or they may simply sit and have a chat.
• Bring comfort items. Favourite toys, books, or fidget tools are welcome. If your child needs breaks or movement, we’ll support that fully.
• Stick to routine. A good night’s sleep and a regular morning routine can help them feel settled.
From booking confirmation to final report, the full process is usually completed within 12 weeks with all required inputs from parents/care givers completed and returned on time.
Constellation Healthcare will be expanding our services later this year to offer tailored therapy (Speech & Language, Occupational Therapy).
No. While we accept GP referrals, they are not required. You can self-refer by making an enquiry through our website.
If you have concerns about your child, but are unsure about what they might need, we provide an online consultation appointment with one of our psychologists. We will look at all the background information, talk to you about your concerns and give you advice about what the next best steps might be for your child. This hour-long session is at €250
Still have questions?
We’re here to help. Speak to a team member or book a complimentary phone consultation with our experts.