Service categories: Counselling and therapies, Diagnosticians

Service URL: https://www.louiseconnor.co.uk/

Secondary URL: https://www.louiseconnor.co.uk/

Dr Louise Connor is an Independent Chartered Consultant Clinical Psychologist providing a range of assessments and interventions for concerns related to Autism Spectrum Conditions and Neurodevelopmental conditions in adults.

DIAGNOSTIC ASSESSMENT

In carrying out an assessment for an adult I use the DSM_5 and ICD-11 diagnostic criteria. The assessment is combined with a developmental history based on elements from the Autism Diagnostic Interview (ADI-R) and over twenty-five years’ experience. The assessment follows all diagnostic criteria from the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) and the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The assessment gathers detailed information in order to fully inform a diagnostic decision with no further assessment being necessary. In doing this assessment, I will look at your developmental history and current situation to understand your thinking and personality style. We will then discuss how these have impacted on your life, and what changes may be relevant for the future. It may be useful to include someone who knows you well in the interview, such as a parent or spouse, although this is not compulsory.

If further information were required, I am also trained in using the Autism Diagnostic Interview - Revised (ADI-R) and the 3Di, developmental interviews which also consider a range of differential diagnoses. I may also carry out the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule – Revised (ADOS-R), in those cases when more evidence is required, although this is rarely required.

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The initial assessment takes around 2½ - 3 hours to administer. The assessment is conducted in a clinic in Woking, Surrey or online using Zoom or the platform of your choice. Following assessment, a full report with formulation of any associated psychological difficulties and recommendations is compiled. The cost of this assessment, detailed feedback and extensive report is £900.

TREATMENT AND INTERVENTION

A Cognitive Behavioural Therapeutic (CBT) framework is used, together with Solution Focussed Therapy as appropriate. However, all intervention is individually tailored according to the clients' way of thinking, values and needs. This will apply to people with, or without developmental disorders.

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Intervention is offered to people with High Functioning Autism in order to address chronic anxiety, depression and self-esteem difficulties. I have developed an understanding of the thinking style of people with Autism Spectrum Conditions over my 30 years of clinical experience. Flexibility is a crucial aspect of my approach, in order to achieve each individual's goals.

• Goals and expectations are identified during the first session to ensure a focussed approach throughout. A package of 6 to 10 sessions will be developed with an agreed review date in order to ensure we are addressing the issues and goals as defined.
• Interventions with adults may be carried out together with a parent, depending on the needs of the individual and the potential value of the parent contributing in a collaborative way with their son or daughter.
• Couple therapy can be provided where one member of the couple has an Autistic Spectrum Condition. The aim is to develop a shared understanding of each person's needs, define and work towards agreed goals.

TRAUMA THERAPY

Many people on the Autism spectrum have experienced trauma in the context of their different way of thinking and a lack of understanding or awareness of other people. This trauma can have a lifelong impact. I am trained in the use of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. This is a structured psychotherapy treatment used to help individuals recover from distressing life experiences, including trauma. This approach effectively reduces PTSD symptoms, including intrusive thoughts, nightmares, and hyperarousal. 

Telephone or email queries are welcome to Dr Louise Connor, or Kirsty Fishlock, service manager.

I offer face to face sessions, on-line sessions or telephone caontact.

Feel free to contact me by phone or email to dicuss the most appropaite way forward regarding your concerns.

Aimed at: Adolescent , Adult , Parent or carer of under 18, Parent/carer of a child, Parent/carer of a young person, Parent/carer of an adult, Parents or carers, families, adults, Partner

Referral Sources: NHS and Private

Covers: Cambridgeshire, East Midlands, East of England, North East, North West, Northern Ireland, Scotland, South East, South West, Wales, West Midlands, Yorkshire and The Humber

Specialisms: Autism and Neurodivergent , Generic

Other specialisms: CBT SFCBT EMDR amongst many