The Autism Service
We are a specialist psychodynamically and developmentally orientated team.
Our approach
Autism is a condition which has a profound impact upon the whole family. Although families may have already seen a number of professionals they may remain confused for some time and for many the diagnosis itself can be traumatic.
Some parents may be concerned that their child is not developing speech and social relationships adequately and are seeking help in understanding this.
Because each child and family is unique and their needs differ we tailor a service appropriate for each child and family's differing needs. We are actively involved in evaluating our approach and families may be invited to take part in our current research.
Who may be helped by our service
We take referrals of children from birth to 18 years of age. We welcome and encourage parents and professionals to refer very young children where there is any concern about developmental delay, particularly in the areas of play, language development and sociability. Some children and adolescents will have already received a diagnosis of autism, autistic spectrum disorder, Asperger's Syndrome before referral to us. In infants any sign of a lack of interest in the world around them is a cause for concern.
What we offer
Preliminary assessment
Up to three appointments are offered to explore the family's concerns and to consider whether our service is appropriate.
Extended therapeutic assessment
Because of the complex nature of the problems we see and their impact on the whole family, these assessments often span several months. Up to 20 one-hour appointments are offered. Over the assessment period the family will be seen together at least once and then in varying combinations of family members according to need. An in depth individual assessment of the child is made - usually three or four one-hour sessions.
Following the assessment:
A report is prepared for the referrer and GP. Because of the complexity of the work with autistic spectrum and developmental disorders, every effort is made to involve other agencies and to include a professional review meeting. With parents' permission, contact is made with the child's school. At the conclusion of the assessment a review is held with the parents to discuss what interventions may be helpful.
Treatments
Who refers
Many referrals come directly from parents who have heard about our service from others. It is helpful if parents can also engage the support of their GP in the referral. Many referrals also come from other NHS, education or social service professionals.
Enquiries
Mrs S Reid
Consultant Child Psychotherapist
Chair of Autism Team
Tavistock Clinic Child and Family Department
120 Belsize Lane
London NW3 5BA
Telephone: 0207 435 7111 Fax: 0207 447 3733 e-mail: etipping@tavi-port.org
Please note, referrals by email are not accepted by The Tavistock and Portman NHS Trust. No patient identifiable information must ever be transmitted or accepted until such time as proper encryption procedures are in place. Referrals are only accepted in writing and are treated confidentially by the specific department or clinic to which they are addressed.
Developments in the community
New consultation service for professionals and parents
In response to requests from parents and professionals in the field we are now introducing a range of additional services. These services, which will be provided in community settings, will be of particular interest to those in the education and health professions, as well as to groups of parents.
This new development will offer support from Tavistock clinicians to groups of professionals and parents on a consultancy basis through a series of meetings. Each of these meetings will have a particular focus, as well as opportunities for the participants to reflect on their experience and to bring cases or issues for discussion. The service aims to be flexible, tailoring packages to suit the needs of particular groups.
Sample programme
Professionals' group consultation
Parents' group consultation
Individual consultation
For Further information on Consultation Services (for which additional funding is required) please contact Biddy Youell to discuss your particular requirements.
Tel 0207 435 7111 or email byouell@tavi-port.org
Costings available on request.
Please note, referrals by email are not accepted by The Tavistock and Portman NHS Trust. No patient identifiable information must ever be transmitted or accepted until such time as proper encryption procedures are in place. Referrals are only accepted in writing and are treated confidentially by the specific department or clinic to which they are addressed.
