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INITIAL SCREENING

Neurodiversity Screening Service

The Dawn Practice offers neurodiversity screening appointments for children, adolescents, and adults seeking to explore neurodivergent traits and gain insight into how their brains work. These initial screening sessions have a one-off fee of £295 and last approximately 90-minutes.

 

Whether you are considering the possibility of autism, ADHD, or learning differences, our experienced professionals provide a supportive space for self-discovery and understanding before deciding whether you will benefit from a full diagnostic assessment.

INITIAL SCREENING

Neurodivergence Screenings Explained

Everyone is part of the neurodiversity of humankind. Some people are closer to neurotypical standards and “norms”; others diverge from these. Neurodivergence screenings are for the latter, and are designed to help you understand how your brain works. This knowledge can then help you access tools and resources to reach your full potential.

For our neurodevelopmental screenings, we prioritise a neuroaffirmative approach and focus on both strengths and difficulties associated with the way that your brain functions. We can provide either standalone or combined screenings for neurodivergent profiles, such as:

Autism:

A unique way of experiencing social communication and sensory input.

ADHD:

Affects impulse management, emotional regulation, and focus.

Intellectual differences

Learning difficulties that can have a profound impact on daily life.

We understand that neurodevelopmental conditions and mental wellbeing are interlinked, so our mental health specialists can also offer combined screening appointments for co-occurring challenges such as ADHD and depression, or autism and anxiety.

INITIAL SCREENING

What We Will Cover at an Initial Screening

Topics and tools to help us understand your support needs

These evidence-based screening tools help us identify patterns and determine appropriate next steps for additional support and reasonable adjustments in your daily life.

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Clinical Interview

In a clinical interview, you will have a chance to discuss your developmental history, medical history, and neurodivergent traits. Where relevant, your clinician may request school reports or information from family members to build a complete picture. Some of the topics we discuss may include:

 

  • Social interactions and communication
  • Sensory preferences or sensitivities
  • Education challenges and experiences
  • Work and relationships in adulthood
  • Major life events or trauma history

While there is no pressure to discuss anything that makes you uncomfortable, the more openly you can share, the more accurately your clinician will understand your needs.

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Screening Questionnaires and Rating Scales

Screening questionnaires figure in both initial screenings and later assessments. These may include self-reporting elements about your emotions, thoughts, and behaviours in relation to the neurotype you are being screened for. Whether it’s a neurodiversity test or a rating scale questionnaire, you can rest assured that The Dawn Practice only uses evidence-based screening tools in appointments.

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Natural Impressions

Our experienced clinicians will also take into consideration signs of neurodivergence in how you or your child navigates the world, either during the appointment or in a community setting, such as at school or university. Depending on what you are enquiring about, they will consider:

 

  • Attention span
  • Body language
  • Emotional regulation
  • Speech patterns and tone
  • Interaction style and social reciprocity

We recognise that some neurodiverse traits present differently for males and females, or depending on age, and take this into consideration at your appointment.

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Feedback and Next Steps

The initial screening aims to provide you with the clarity to develop a plan for your next steps, whether that means advancing to a full assessment, receiving ongoing support, or choosing not to proceed further in the process. For many, even if an initial assessment doesn’t lead to an eventual diagnosis, it can help to put their minds at ease.

Unlike online tests and remote neurodevelopmental screenings, The Dawn Practice provides fully in-person assessments that consider the whole person. We are diligent in our approach and follow regulated guidelines approved by the NHS.

OUR PROCESSES

How to Prepare for an Initial Neurodiversity Screening

It is normal to feel nervous before an initial consultation, especially if you have been considering getting support for a long time. Our clinicians understand this and will do everything they can to help you feel as comfortable as possible. While no preparation is necessary for an initial screening, there are a few things you can do before and during the appointment to make it a positive experience.

01.

Research your journey

Write down the address of the clinic, decide which route to take, and check public transport times, if relevant. We recommend arriving 15 minutes before your appointment.

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02.

Bring notes

Prepare some notes about the main topics you want to discuss in your appointment. You can use these as a guide when asking or answering questions in the clinical interview.

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03.

Ask questions

During the appointment, don’t be afraid to ask questions if there is anything you don’t understand. Our clinicians know that this may be a daunting experience and are happy to go at your pace.

Teenage boy talking and gesturing while sitting on a sofa during a therapy or counseling session
Delivery rider checking navigation directions on a smartphone mounted on a motorcycle handlebar
Person writing notes in a notebook during a therapy or counseling session
Teenage boy talking and gesturing while sitting on a sofa during a therapy or counseling session
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.

Recommended by GPs, schools, and NHS partners.

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?

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    No GP referral is required for a private ADHD assessment service at our Ayr or Glasgow clinics. You can self-refer or be referred by family members, schools, or other professionals.

    What is the difference between a screening and a full assessment?

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    A screening is an initial conversation in which you have the space to discuss your neurodevelopmental characteristics with a qualified mental health professional. A full assessment is an in-depth evaluation that determines a formal diagnosis and treatment plan.

    How much does a screening session cost?

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    The fee for a screening session at The Dawn Practice is £295. This allows you to begin a conversation about potential neurodivergence without needing to commit to a full assessment.

    How does a screening differ from free online tests?

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    While online tests may help you in initial self-research, they cannot replace a professional evaluation. At the Dawn Practice, we use evidence-based tools and clinical expertise to assess your unique situation. Our in-person approach considers the whole person, not only isolated symptoms.

    Do you offer online therapy or remote screenings?

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    No, the Dawn Practice only provides fully in-person screenings. We find that face-to-face appointments allow for a more comprehensive understanding of your needs. Our Newton Mearns clinic is disability accessible, and in some instances, we can arrange home visits.

    Will I receive a diagnosis at my first appointment?

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    The screening is intended to gather information and determine appropriate next steps. While some people may progress to a full assessment for diagnosis, others may find that the screening provides the answers they need or helps them access the right help through other services.

    Not sure where to start?

    Contact Us

    Regulated By

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