Red-haired child and woman in white coat use colorful sensory balls at table, with mirror behind them.
OUR SERVICES

Private Sensory Assessment in Glasgow and Ayr

Sensory processing differences are a common trait of neurodivergence that can affect learning, relationships, and daily living. At The Dawn Practice, we compassionately support people with sensory challenges across the lifespan. All of our sensory assessments follow national standards and are completed by experienced Occupational Therapists using gold-standard tools.

 

As with all of our services, we work in a neuroaffirmative way, highlighting strengths as well as challenges. Where broader neurodivergent needs are present, we can adapt and combine assessments to ensure a holistic, tailored approach.

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What Are Sensory Processing Differences?

Some people’s brains are wired in such a way that their senses process stimuli differently from others. This is common in neurodivergent people, for example those who are autistic.

 

For some, that might mean an oversensitivity to noise, lights, or even the feeling of certain materials. Too much of this stimuli can result in feelings of agitation, distractibility, and distress. For others, it could mean undersensitivity to stimuli which can make them feel ungrounded. This can lead individuals to seek out stronger sensory experiences, perhaps by rocking back and forth or standing close to others.

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What Will I Cover at a Sensory Assessment?

Our occupational therapists use recognised standardised tools, age-appropriate questionnaires, and structured observations to assess how sensory processing differences influence regulation, learning, and social participation. We evaluate you or your child’s sensory processing patterns across multiple sensory systems, including response to sensory input and sensory seeking behaviour.

Process

Our Process

Our process is collaborative and person-centred, facilitated by highly experienced independent occupational therapists listed with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). Our sensory assessments are held in-person, typically at one of our clinics in Glasgow or Ayr.

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.

A young man talks with a woman holding a clipboard in a bright room with a large window and plant.
02.

Initial Screening

Initial sensory assessments are a collaborative process in which we get to know you and understand how you or your child processes sensory information. Additional information from parents, teachers, and the community contribute valuable information for sensory assessments, though this is not essential.

Therapist with pen and paper sits at desk, talking to child in art-filled, toy-decorated room.
03.

Sensory Assessment

During a comprehensive assessment, we use standardised tools and other materials to evaluate sensory processing across all sensory systems. This includes assessing you or your child’s sensory strengths and challenges, and how they affect daily life. We assess your or your child’s response to various types of sensory input to identify sensory seeking behaviour, processing vulnerabilities, and sensory strengths.

A woman and a girl sit at a classroom table; the girl uses a toy fishing rod, bright chairs in background.
04.

Comprehensive Report

We provide a comprehensive report detailing specifics about sensory processing challenges, with guidance on how to manage these constructively in everyday life. This can be used by caregivers, in the classroom, and in social situations to help mitigate feelings of agitation and distress.

Child assembles red and white blocks to match a book pattern as adult takes notes across table.
05.

Post-Diagnostic Support

We can provide ongoing therapy at the practice and in your community environment to assist you or your child in challenging areas of sensory sensitivities. Your personalised therapy plan is tailored to your individual goals and can be adapted over time to suit your adapting needs.

Woman and young girl smile at each other in cozy room, with table of colorful blocks and art supplies.
A young man talks with a woman holding a clipboard in a bright room with a large window and plant.
Therapist with pen and paper sits at desk, talking to child in art-filled, toy-decorated room.
A woman and a girl sit at a classroom table; the girl uses a toy fishing rod, bright chairs in background.
Child assembles red and white blocks to match a book pattern as adult takes notes across table.
Woman and young girl smile at each other in cozy room, with table of colorful blocks and art supplies.
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

    More than
    60,000 ‍5-star reviews

    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

    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.

    How many sensory needs sessions are required?

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    The number of therapy sessions varies from person to person and depends on the specific needs and goals. The initial sensory assessment typically requires 1-2 sessions to complete the comprehensive assessment, gather information from parents and teachers, and analyse findings. Some families find that the assessment and recommendations alone provide sufficient guidance, while others benefit from ongoing therapy to implement strategies and support sensory integration.

    What tools do you use for a sensory assessment

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    We use a range of standardised tools and age-appropriate questionnaires. These include the Sensory Profile, praxis test components, and structured observation protocols. We select tools based on the child or adult’s age, the nature of difficulties being assessed, and the specific contexts that are most relevant. All our assessments follow evidence-based clinical practice and use validated standardised tools to ensure reliable evaluation of sensory processing patterns.

    Who will receive the assessment report?

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    With your consent, we can share your report with teachers, school staff, and other professionals involved in supporting the child or adult. The report can contribute valuable information for education planning, support interventions, and help explain sensory processing differences to others in the community. We always discuss who will receive the report and ensure you understand and consent to how information is shared.

    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.