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OUR SERVICES

Private Dyspraxia Assessments in Glasgow and Ayr

Dyspraxia is sometimes described as the “forgotten or lesser-known neurodivergence”, and that is why we offer assessments across the lifespan. At Dawn Practice, all our assessments follow national standards and use only gold-standard tools; as with all assessments, we aim to work with a neuroaffirmative approach.

 

If you feel you may have a broader neurodivergent profile, we can tailor assessments to your individual needs. This may include combined assessments, such as ADHD and Dyspraxia.

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What is Dyspraxia?

Dyspraxia is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects movement, coordination, and working memory. Dyspraxia developmental differences may make it harder to learn new skills, complete everyday tasks, and participate in sports.

 

Dyspraxia can affect both gross motor skills (involving large muscles for activities like walking, running, and balance) and fine motor skills (involving small muscles for tasks like writing, using small objects, and self-care). Though it is sometimes referred to as Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), dyspraxic people also often have associated strengths like creativity and strong long-term memory.

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What Will We Cover in a Dyspraxia Assessment?

Our experienced occupational therapists use gold-standard tools to assess motor coordination and planning, alongside a detailed developmental history. We work collaboratively with you to ensure a strengths-based understanding of your condition, taking a holistic approach that considers the physical, emotional, and psychological impact of living with coordination difficulties.

Process

Our Process

Our assessment process uses a variety of dyspraxia tests to ascertain whether you meet diagnostic criteria for a dyspraxia diagnosis. We also consider whether other conditions may be present, as dyspraxia sometimes co-occurs with ADHD, autism, and learning differences.

01.

A Warm Welcome

When you come through the doors, you will be greeted by a friendly face, usually a member of our administration team. You will then meet a kind clinician and go to a private and comfortable room for your assessment. Our dyspraxia assessments are held in person at one of our mental health clinics in Glasgow or Ayr.

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02.

Initial Screening

You will have an initial appointment, which will focus on your developmental history and ask about what has brought you for an assessment. This will help you and your clinician to decide whether a full assessment will be helpful as your next step.

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03.

Dyspraxia Assessment

We will ask about early motor milestones (e.g., crawling, walking, using cutlery), as well as current coordination challenges, and how these affect your daily life. We may also assess your movements, including balancing and coordination, to see where you may need additional support.

Person in white shirt arranges wooden blocks on a table at a Glasgow mental health clinic.
04.

Assessment Outcome

At the end of the assessment, you will have a supportive feedback session to discuss whether the diagnostic criteria for dyspraxia have been met. If you have received a formal diagnosis, we will explain how dyspraxia affects movement, coordination, and daily functioning, providing clear examples relevant to your life or your child’s development.

Therapist with pen and paper sits at desk, talking to child in art-filled, toy-decorated room.
05.

Post-Diagnostic Support

Following a dyspraxia diagnosis, we offer ongoing support to help you or your child develop strategies to manage coordination difficulties and build confidence. This could include working with your child’s school, child development centre, and/or GP.

Red-haired child and woman in white coat use colorful sensory balls at table, with mirror behind them.
Woman and young girl smile at each other in cozy room, with table of colorful blocks and art supplies.
A woman sits on a couch, talking to a man with a clipboard. A green potted plant is on the table nearby.
Person in white shirt arranges wooden blocks on a table at a Glasgow mental health clinic.
Therapist with pen and paper sits at desk, talking to child in art-filled, toy-decorated room.
Red-haired child and woman in white coat use colorful sensory balls at table, with mirror behind them.
Why Us

Experts in mental health & neurodevelopmental care

Whether you need an assessment, therapy, or ongoing support, we’re here to bring clarity. All care is evidence-based and delivered by fully qualified professionals.

We only use highly experienced, regulated clinicians.

Multiple pathways of support available, all in one place

Our approach is neuroaffirmative and inclusive.

Trusted by GPs, schools, charities and public services.

Collaborative, supportive care when you need it most.

Contact us

Postal Address

The Dawn Practice, 65 Bath St, Glasgow, G2 2BX

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    CUSTOMER STORIES

    Read why people love The Dawn Practice.

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    I contacted The Dawn Practice following a late ADHD diagnosis, seeking support to process the impact of living for decades with undiagnosed ADHD. I wanted help understanding how my brain works, addressing the trauma associated with years of being misunderstood and developing practical strategies to manage the challenges of everyday life as a neurodivergent person. From the very beginning, Laura provided a compassionate, supportive, and non-judgemental space where I felt truly heard. Through our sessions and the additional assessments I undertook, I have gained invaluable insight into how my mind works. This understanding has allowed me to reframe many past experiences with greater self-awareness and self-compassion. I particularly appreciated the open and flexible approach to therapy, which enabled me to set the pace and focus on the areas that mattered most to me. This personalised approach has helped me gain maximum benefit from the process and has had a genuinely positive impact on my wellbeing. I would highly recommend The Dawn Practice to anyone seeking support in understanding their neurodivergence, building self-compassion, and learning how to thrive in a world that is often designed for neurotypical minds.

    Brian P

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    Where do I start…absolutely first class treatment at The Dawn Practice. There are so many places out there and it can be so confusing. I highly recommend The Dawn Practice to anyone who may require help. Jennifer Robertson dealt with us from first interview until final report. Jennifer was incredibly knowledgeable and understood our concerns that we had with our son. The report was incredibly in depth and recommendations to help our son now and in future. Cannot recommend them enough. Thank you The Dawn Practice and Jennifer for being amazing with our son and for all your help. 

    Eilidh

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    We are incredibly grateful for the support to our daughter over the past year. One of the most helpful aspects of her treatment has been the way the clinician helped her understand OCD in a clear, age-appropriate, and non-frightening way. Learning to recognise OCD thoughts for what they are, and not treat them as facts, has been a huge step forward for her.

    The practical strategies the clnician introduced — particularly around managing intrusive thoughts, reducing reassurance-seeking, and gradually facing fears — have been invaluable. We’ve noticed a real increase in her confidence and resilience, and she is now much better able to tolerate uncertainty and anxiety without becoming overwhelmed.

    We also found the clinician’s calm, consistent approach extremely reassuring as a mum. The guidance the clinician provided to me on how to respond to OCD behaviours, without reinforcing them, has helped create a more supportive and consistent environment at home. This has made a noticeable difference to her progress.

    Overall, our daughter has gained tools and understanding that we feel will continue to support her well beyond the end of therapy. We are very thankful for the care, patience, and expertise the clinician showed throughout her treatment.

    Anonymous

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    We looked very carefully at several clinics before choosing this clinic to assess our son for Autism and ADHD. From the very first chat over the telephone before our appointment, to the final discussion the staff were fabulous. Vicki was so kind caring and professional and it was obvious that her knowledge of ASD/ADHD was second to none. Both the GP and school commented that the report was the best they had seen for this type of assessment. I can thank herself and Camilla for the support they gave to my son and ourselves and I would highly recommend this clinic for assessment.

    Lorna H.

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    “In my role providing Dr Brougham with clinical supervision, I’ve learnt that she has
    enormous experience of working with people with a wide range of types of neuro-
    divergence, including autism and intellectual disabilities.  Also, Dr Brougham is very
    compassionate and always practises in a neuro-affirmative manner.  In short, she
    leaves no stone unturned to ensure that her clients receive the best service
    possible.”

    Cliff Hawkins (Consultant Clinical Psychologist)

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    We met with Aileen (Occupational Therapist), who assessed our then 4-year-old girl Eilidh for Dyspraxia (DCD) and for a sensory profile. Following her diagnosis, Eilidh has been receiving support from Aileen for the last 18 months. Part of that process involved Aileen linking in with her school, which has been immensely helpful in supporting Eilidh in all areas of her life. As parents, we now feel that we have a better understanding of Eilidh’s Neurotype, and we have developed a toolkit which we can use to help her. Any suggestions that Aileen gives us are always clear and feel like achievable goals. Everyone in the clinic is always very warm and welcoming on arrival. We think it speaks volumes that Eilidh is always excited to attend and feels safe when visiting. Eilidh is now thriving, and the difference has been truly incredible. We asked Eilidh what she thought, and she said, “I like Aileen, she is kind and she helps me with my busy brain”. We highly recommend the clinic to other parents seeking support for their neurodivergent children.

    Kevin M (Parent of client)

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    I honestly cannot put into words how grateful I am for the care, support, and guidance I’ve received from this psychology practice. From the moment I walked in, I felt seen, heard, and valued. The environment is warm, welcoming, and professional — a true safe haven for anyone seeking help with their mental health.

    The clinician I’ve been working with has been nothing short of exceptional. Their compassion, insight, and deep understanding of human psychology have made an incredible difference in my life. They don’t just listen — they truly get it. Every session feels meaningful and purposeful. Whether we’re working through past trauma, navigating current stress, or building healthier patterns for the future, I always leave feeling lighter, more empowered, and more connected to myself.

    This experience has not only improved my mental health — it has completely transformed the way I see myself and the world around me. I’ve learned to manage anxiety in ways I never thought possible, found strength in vulnerability, and developed a more positive, resilient outlook on life.

    For anyone who may be struggling or just feeling stuck, I can’t recommend this practice highly enough. It’s not just therapy — it’s a journey back to yourself, with a truly gifted clinician by your side every step of the way.

    Thank you for helping me rediscover peace, purpose, and hope.

    Gio S (adult client)

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    I honestly don’t have the words for how much the Dawn Practice has helped my daughter. We have been working with Mireille Wallace who is the most amazing, compassionate, knowledgeable psychologist. She is an angel! Highly recommended.

    Fiona L (parent of client)

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    Highly recommend this company outstanding service and support.

    Lesley S

    Frequently Asked
    Questions

    Do I need a GP referral for a dyspraxia assessment?

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    While we can work alongside your GP with an NHS shared care plan, no GP referral is required for our private dyspraxia assessment service. You can self-refer or be referred by family members, schools, or other professionals.

    What will happen at my first ADHD appointment?

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    Your first appointment is a chance for us to get to know you and for you to have the space to express your experiences. In your first appointment, held at one of our mental health clinics in the West of Scotland, we’ll talk about your background, history, and the challenges or reasons that have brought you to us.

    Are children born prematurely at higher risk of developing dyspraxia?

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    Yes, infants who are born prematurely, particularly before the 37th week, are at higher risk of developing dyspraxia.*

    Can occupational therapy help with dyspraxia?

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    Yes, occupational therapy is one of the most effective support systems for dyspraxia. Occupational Therapists can help develop motor skills, teach compensatory strategies, and improve the ability to complete everyday tasks. Following the assessment, we can assist with specialist occupational therapy services.

    How many ADHD sessions will I need?

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    The number of post-diagnostic sessions depends on your needs, goals, and the nature of your tailored treatment plan. For some, a few focused sessions may be enough, while others benefit from longer-term support. Note that we don’t try to “fix” ADHD “symptoms”, instead focusing on practical tools that work with your natural brain processes.

    Can you assess children and adults?

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    Yes, our clinical team has expertise in assessing both children and adults, including young people navigating adolescence.

    Which insurance firms do you work with?

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    Currently, we work with WPA, Cigna and Vitality. For all other providers, please do check with your insurance firm before getting in touch.

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    Every clinician is highly qualified, regulated and experienced. Many are leading consultants, professors or experts in their field.