Type
Adult Services - ADHD & Asperger’sHello and welcome to the Adult ADHD and Asperger’s Team.
We are a multidisciplinary service offering detailed diagnostic assessments for:
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Autistic Spectrum Conditions (ASC) without a learning disability (also known as Asperger’s Syndrome)
- Tourette Syndrome (TS), as well as short-term post-diagnosis support.
Who is this service for? Adults aged 18 individuals diagnosed or referred for a diagnosis of with ADHD, ASC (without a learning disability) and/or TS.
How to access this service: Referrals are made to us by GPs or a member of the community mental health team, social services or an appropriate member of staff from a hospital ward or care unit.
Address
St. Mary’s Hospital , Kettering, Northamptonshire, NN15 7PWMap
Contact us
For general queries please check our Frequently Asked Questions section on this website.
Or contact us Monday to Friday on 03000 273 666 between 10am – 2pm
Our services
Our services
We are a friendly, welcoming non-judgemental service.
We have a highly trained and skilled staff mix of nurses, support workers, psychologists, occupational therapists, assistant psychologists, speech and language therapist and administrative staff.
We offer diagnostic assessments for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) without a learning disability (previously known as Asperger's Syndrome), and Tourette syndrome (TS), as well as short-term post-diagnosis support.
We can provide psychoeducation to enable the person to better understand their diagnoses, offer advice to the person, their family and/or carers and explore coping strategies.
Short-term follow-up support offered will be based on the persons individual clinical need(s) and service availability.
We also appreciate your feedback - you can leave online feedback about our services here.
We offer:
- Diagnostic assessments for ADHD, Autism, and TS
- Short term 1:1 support
- Group support ADHD & Autism
- Advice and information about other services
We cannot offer:
- Crisis support
- Mental Health support
- Help with benefits
- Learning disability support
- We cannot coordinate or manage a person's care
- Medication prescribing
- Long term therapy
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ADHDBack up
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition that is present from childhood, but may not have been diagnosed. This means there are differences in the development of the brain, compared to most people. There are three different types of ADHD:
- Inattention - may include being easily distracted and having difficulties with organising tasks.
- Hyperactivity - may mean the person struggles to sit still, may talk excessively and/or fidget frequently.
- Impulsivity - can mean a person may often interrupt others, or speak and act before thinking.
People can have difficulties with all of these or a combination of two. For example, you could have inattention and impulsivity but not hyperactivity.
People without ADHD may experience these but for people with ADHD this happens often and interferes with the person’s ability to do the things they want and need to do in everyday life.
People with ADHD may also experience mental health difficulties including mood and anxiety issues.
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What our team offersBack up
Diagnostic assessments for ADHD
The first step to receiving a diagnosis for ADHD is speaking to your GP or other relevant healthcare professional.
If they think you would benefit from our service, a screening appointment will take place to decide whether an assessment is required. If this is agreed the person will be added to our waiting list.
The diagnostic process typically includes either 1 half day appointment or 2 shorter appointments with a psychologist. Prior to this questionnaires are sent in out in the post to be completed by the person and ideally someone who knew the individual as a child.
The half day assessment or two separate appointments will include an interview and a neuropsychological assessment which will evaluate levels of attention. Feedback is usually at the end of the appointment.
Afterwards you will have a 1:1 follow-up appointment with a psychologist, this will include a discussion of your potential follow-up options.
Support we offer
Depending on the persons, our ADHD Advice Service or our Comprehensive/Complex Therapeutic Intervention Pathway may offer the following support:
- Psychoeducation - to enable the person to better understand ADHD, develop coping strategies for associated challenges, and/or promote independent living skills. We may also offer some support with further education and employment if appropriate.
- Advice on medication
ADHD Advice Service
We run a virtual Advice Service for adults with ADHD. Advice is offered on a variety of issues, such as learning about ADHD, anxiety and impulsivity, managing anger, and medication. This service is on the telephone and/or online.
You can use this service if you :
- Have been assessed by our team and their carers.
- Have a diagnosis of an ADHD.
- Are 18 years of age and over.
- Have a Northamptonshire GP.
An initial assessment is required to ensure the service is suitable for your needs. People who are diagnosed by our team are automatically assessed.
For individuals who are already diagnosed, please visit your GP and ask to be referred to the Adult ADHD & Asperger’s Team. We will need a diagnostic assessment report to be provided to us prior to your appointment. The assessment does not need to have been carried out by our team, however we do require evidence of a comprehensive diagnostic assessment in line with NICE guidelines. If no report is available, you can be referred for a diagnostic assessment with our team by your GP.
What if I am already diagnosed with ADHD or ADHD and Asperger’s (dual diagnosis)?
If you already have a diagnosis you may be able to recieve short-term support from our team (as above). An appointment would be offered to assess whether we are the best team to support your needs.
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ADHD resources
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Useful guidesBack up
Time management tips [pdf] 854KB
A guide to help you manage your time and organise.
The daily routine for adults with ADHD [pdf] 515KB
Advice on creating yourself a daily routine.
‘Making Sense’ A guide to living with ADHD
Developed by Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust. This comprehensive guide explains what ADHD is, explores peoples experiences, medication, coping strategies and much more.
Sleep and mornings from Attitude website
Racing brains keep many adults with ADHD from falling asleep at night, and restless sleep keeps them from waking up early each morning. Here, learn about good sleep hygiene and daily routines to help your day start off right.
Nutrition, health, and fitness advice from attitude magazine
For adults with ADHD who struggle with intense emotions, poor sleep, body-image challenges, stress, and anxiety. Learn to eat, act, and feel healthier today
Exercise and the ADHD Brain from Attitude website
The Neuroscience of Movement Research shows that physical activity sparks real, positive changes in the brain that increase attention and improve mood.
ADHD and relationships from Attitude website
ADHD can cause misunderstandings, frustrations, and resentments in your closest relationships. But there are ways to build a healthier, happier partnership.
Organise your home from Attitude website
Do you ever wonder why the seemingly simple task of organizing your home feels impossible? It’s important to understand that your ADHD brain is largely responsible. These 28 practical tips can help you change your mindset about what an organised home should look like, and encourage you to get started.
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WebsitesBack up
An excellent online magazine for adults, parents and professionals. Includes real life stories, professional resources, tips to increase motivation, and manage time, anti-bullying resources and much more.
Tara McGillicuddy is an internationally recognized Adult ADD / ADHD Expert. Since 1997 Tara has been providing virtual support and Education to people affected by ADD / ADHD. Her website is comprehensive including stories, support, tips, tools, news and much more.
Provides and overview of ADHD, it’s symptoms, causes, diagnosis and treatment.
Dedicated to helping adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADD/ADHD) and those affected by it, (family, employers, health professionals, etc.) to liberate themselves from fear, shame, and stigma and create a life they love. Their mission is personal—they are a team of people with ADD or affected by it.
Author and ADHD coach Jacqueline Sinfield writes about how adults can manage their ADHD in everyday life, from making sense of a new diagnosis to figuring out tips and tricks to use when tasks feel overwhelming. She also has a blog with covering a wide range of topics relating to ADHD.
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Videos and YouTubersBack up
Ted talk: ADHD sucks but not really
Salif shares a current hypothesis about ADHD’s root and an alternative perspective – including several benefits of the condition – regarding how we engage with it in our schools, homes and selves.
Ted talk: ADHD from the inside
Toby Shaw shares personal insights into this world
Ted talk: Not Just living but thriving with ADHD
When Angela was first diagnosed with ADHD in 2006, she was told at college that "school just wasn't for some people." Angela explores her journey from initial diagnosis to college graduate, to published author and beyond. Angela shares how she not only is living, but thriving with ADHD.
Ted talks: This is what it is really like to live with ADHD
At 32, Jessica McCabe's ADHD brought her to the darkest point of her life thus far. At 34, she was thriving both personally and professionally, producing a successful Youtube channel about living with ADHD. In this deeply personal talk, Jessica describes how she turned things around through community and education
A central hub for ADHD education based on the YouTube Channel How to ADHD by Jessica McCabe.
An independent site for adults dealing with ADHD. Top experts, presented with wit, wisdom, & hope. Their goal is to free everyone from the fear, shame, and stigma that can accompany this often misunderstood and misdiagnosed disorder.
The leading site for self-help talk show content focusing on ADHD, including managing symptoms of attention deficit disorder.
Hosted by Eric Tivers a licensed clinical social worker, coach, podcaster, speaker, consultant, and entrepreneur. ADHD reWired podcast, is a weekly audio program where he talks about his own experiences living with ADHD and he invite guests and experts to share their stories, science and strategies.
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AppsBack up
A list of helpful apps from attitude magazine
List of all NHS reviewed apps not just ASD/ADHD
Anti-Stress
Are you waiting for something and you need a diversion? Are you furious with someone? Do you need distraction from study? Open Antistress app and choose one of 50 options to pick up and play. Hear the sound of a bamboo chime, play with wooden boxes, swipe gently your finger in the water, tap buttons, draw with chalks and so on! Available for free on android and IOS.
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Book listBack up
Thriving with Adult ADHD: Skills to Strengthen Executive Functioning - by Phil BoissiereThis book offers a toolbox of practical, evidence-based exercises to build this mental skill set and take control of ADHD.
From managing common distractions at work to regulating emotions with family and friends, these strategies target symptoms that impact home, work, and personal life.
When an Adult You Love Has ADHD: Professional Advice for Parents, Partners, and Siblings - by Russell A. BarkleyThe author explains what ADHD is and how you can tell if your loved one may have it. He shows how to support your loved one and uses real-life examples to answer questions. It has been a helpful book for many people who are committed to supporting a loved one with ADHD.
A Radical Guide for Women with ADHD: Embrace Neurodiversity, Live Boldy, and Break Through Barriers - by Sari Solden and Michelle FrankThis is the first step by step guided workbook for women with ADHD designed to break the cycle of negative self-talk and develop your individual strengths. The book draws from cognitive behavioural therapies, mindfulness-based practices, and psychoeducation approaches and is based in the latest research to help individuals with ADHD live fulfilling, empowered lives.
Taking Charge of Adult ADHD - by Russell A. BarkleyStep-by-step strategies for managing symptoms and reducing their harmful impact. Includes hands-on self-assessment tools and skills-building exercises, plus clear answers to frequently asked questions about medications and other treatments. Specific techniques are presented for overcoming challenges in critical areas where people often struggle—work, finances, relationships, and more.
Smart But Stuck: Emotions in Teens and Adults with ADHD - by Thomas E. BrownDr. Brown highlights the role that emotions play in this complex disorder. He explains why even very bright people with ADHD get stuck because they can focus well on some tasks that interest them, but often can't focus adequately on other important tasks and relationships. The book examines the crucial role of emotions in the daily functioning of those living with ADHD
The book describes strategies and treatments for getting "unstuck" to move on to a more rewarding and productive life.
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Dual Diagnosis resourcesBack up
Factsheet about the co-occurance of ADHD and Autism from CHADD
Flying Under the Radar as an Autistic Adult With ADHD
Ashort article written by a woman who was diagnosed with ADHD and autism spectrum disorder as an adult describes how she dealt with a late diagnosis.
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Aspergers or Autism without a learning disabilityBack up
Asperger’s is a form of autism, without a learning disability. Autism is a lifelong developmental condition that affects around 1 in 100 people. People experience autism in different ways and see, hear and feel the world differently to other people. Like everyone, every autistic person has their own unique strengths and challenges.
An autistic person may wonder why they are 'different' and feel their social differences mean people don’t always understand them. Asperger’s may affect people in different ways and may not be obvious to others.
The term Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) is a collective term for people who have diagnoses like Childhood Autism or Asperger’s Syndrome. People with Asperger’s have average or above average intelligence.
Autism can mean a person is likely to experience differences with communication, and social interaction, repetitive behaviours/thinking, routines and interests. These have a noticeable impact on daily life.
People with Asperger’s experience differences such as:
- Finding social interactions very confusing
- Struggling with social imagination and find it difficult to always work out how the other person is thinking or feeling
- Challenges in developing and maintaining relationships
- Having particular interests and focusing on these intensely
- Some people may find they notice small details more than others
- Having strong preference or need for routine and find it difficult to adjust to change
- May be perceived by others as being rude or blunt when not meaning to come across this way
- Individuals may take on too much or too little sensory information such as sound, smell, taste/texture, and/or touch.
People with ASCs may also experience mental health difficulties including mood and anxiety issues.
Having a diagnosis can be helpful in supporting a person to understand their difficulties, and the impact of an ASC, as well as gaining support.
For more information about autism please visit these websites:
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What our team offersBack up
Diagnostic assessments for Asperger’s
The first step to receiving a diagnosis for Asperger’s is speaking to your GP or other relevant healthcare professional.
If they think you would benefit from our service, a screening appointment will take place initially to determine whether an assessment is required. If this is agreed the person will be added to our waiting list.
The diagnostic process typically includes 3 face to face appointments with a psychologist. Prior to this questionnaires are sent in out in the post to be completed by the person.
- Appointment 1 - Semi-structured interview based on responses from the pre-appointment questionnaires.
- Appointment 2 - Where possible someone who has known the person well in childhood will attend to discuss childhood.
- Appointment 3 - Feedback will be provided on the outcome of the assessment and possible follow up options.
Depending on the person’s needs an additional 1:1 follow-up appointment with the psychologist may be offered. Some people that we assess do meet the criteria for a diagnosis, while others do not. In either case we will discuss the information that we have collected during the assessment and discuss the different sources of further support that may be available to you.
Support we offer
Depending on the persons need we may offer psychoeducation to enable the person to better understand Asperger’s/Autism, develop coping strategies for associated challenges, and/or promote independent living skills. We may also offer some support with further education and employment if appropriate.
The support is provided by our Autism Advice Service or 1:1 Occupational Therapy.
Autism Advice Service
We run a virtual Advice Service for adults (18 upwards) with autism diagnoses (without a learning disability i.e. Asperger’s). This services is for advice on a variety of issues, such as learning about autism, sensory issues and problem solving will be available as well as relevant groups and webinars. This service is based on the telephone and/or online
The service is open to people who:
- Have been assessed by the adult ADHD and Asperger’s Team and their carers.
- Have a diagnosis of an Autism Spectrum Condition, without a diagnosed Learning Disability.
- Are 18 years of age and over.
- Have a Northamptonshire GP.
An initial assessment is required to ensure the service is suitable for you. People who are diagnosed by our team are automatically assessed.
For individuals who are already diagnosed, please visit your GP and ask to be referred to the Adult ADHD & Asperger’s Team. We will need a diagnostic assessment report to be provided to us prior to your appointment. The assessment does not need to have been carried out by our team, however we do require evidence of a comprehensive diagnostic assessment in line with NICE guidelines. If no report is available, you can be referred for a diagnostic assessment with our team by your GP.
What if I am already diagnosed with Asperger’s or ADHD and Asperger’s (dual diagnosis)?
If you already have a diagnosis you may be able to recieve short-term support from our team (as above). An appointment would be offered to assess whether we are the best team to support your needs.
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Aspergers resources
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Guides and websitesBack up
Autism, a guide following diagnosis
Autism and anxiety guide [pdf] 515KB
Time management tips [pdf] 854KB
This guideline covers diagnosing and managing suspected or confirmed autism spectrum disorder (autism, Asperger’s syndrome and atypical autism) in people aged 18 and over.
National Autistic Society – What is Autism?
Text and video explaining what Autism is, how it can affect individuals, information about diagnosis, the different names for autism and much more
This legislation includes statutory guidance, duties and recommendations for service providers and Government departments across areas including employment, welfare, criminal justice, transport and education services.
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BlogsBack up
The Aspergian – an autistic blogger collective
Cynthia Kims blog provides a wide-range of information about Asperger’s, including areas such as, adult diagnosis, marriage, motherhood, sensory processing and acceptance
Well written blog by the Mum of a teenage girl with Asperger’s
50ish autistic blogger writing about life
Ethan Hirschberg, an autistic teenager
A blog from Kit Mead, which discusses autism, mental health and LGBTQ+ issues
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Videos and YouTubersBack up
Excellent autistic speaker and advocate
Autistic speaker and activist
Discussing issues related to autism and neurodiversity
Autistic musician and campaigner
Deam Beadle– autistic speaker and singer https://www.youtube.com/user/DeanBeadleuk
TED is a nonprofit devoted to spreading ideas, usually in the form of short, videoed talks (18 minutes or less). TED covers almost all topics in more than 100 languages.
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BooksBack up
Nerdy, Shy, and Socially Inappropriate: A User Guide to an Asperger Life - by Cynthia KimCynthia Kims book is refreshing, honest and witty. It is filled with personal stories and lots of useful advice and tips on a wide range of topics, such as social communication, relationships, parenting, growing up undiagnosed, sensory differences and acceptance. Cynthia also has a blog, ‘Musings of an Aspie’. This insightful book could be helpful for anyone trying to gain greater insight into autism and anyone looking for clear and concise practical advice.
Look Me in the Eye: My Life with Asperger's - by John Elder RobisonWarm and engaging personal account which is at once heart-breaking, inspiring and funny. His life is a testament to the fact that a life with Asperger's can be as rich as anyone else's — despite the challenges.
Odd Girl Out: An Autistic Woman in a Neurotypical World - by Laura JamesLaura James found out that she was autistic as an adult, after she had forged a career for herself, married twice and raised four children. This book tracks the year of Laura's life after she receives a definitive diagnosis from her doctor, as she learns that 'different' doesn't need to mean 'less' and how there is a place for all of us, and it's never too late to find it.
The Autistic Brain - by Temple GrandinTemple Grandin offers her own experience as an autistic person alongside discoveries about the autistic brain, as well as genetic research. She also highlights sensory differences as well as treating autism symptom by symptom, rather than with an umbrella diagnosis.
Autism and Asperger Syndrome in Adults - by Luke BeardonThere are many hugely intelligent, insightful, kind, caring, loyal, skilled autistic individuals. This book presents an overview of autism and Asperger syndrome in adults, for individuals with autism and Asperger’s syndrome and their families and friends.
Very Late Diagnosis of Asperger Syndrome (Autism Spectrum Disorder): How Seeking a Diagnosis in Adulthood Can Change Your Life - by Philip Wylie This book discusses the process, the pros and cons, and the after-effects of receiving an autism diagnosis in adulthood.
Outlining the likely stages of the journey to diagnosis, this book looks at what the individual may go through as they become aware of their Asperger characteristics and as they seek pre-assessment and diagnosis, as well as common reactions upon receiving a diagnosis - from depression and anger to relief and self-acceptance. Combining practical guidance with advice from personal experience and interviews and correspondence with specialists in the field, the book discusses if and when to disclose to family, friends and employers, how to seek appropriate support services, and how to use the self-knowledge gained through diagnosis to live well in the future
"That's Not Right!": My Life Living with Asperger's by Alex MannersAlex Manners was diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome in 2007 when he was ten years old. He writes candidly about his life experiences, and in particular he articulates well the issues within the UK’s education system. This book provides invaluable information for parents, families, friends, teachers plus anyone else affected. The book documents how the Manners family fought to overcome the ignorance and misunderstandings in the system, and offers practical, usable advice for anyone else in similar circumstances.
Alex is an inspirational young man and also has his own website
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Relationship resourcesBack up
Disclaimer: The views are those expressed by the author and may not necessarily reflect that of the ADHD and Asperger’s Team.
Communication and Social Isolation - National Autistic Society
This article offers information about conversations, making friends and socialising, telling people you’re autistic, and where to find out more.
Loneliness isn't inevitable – a guide to making new friends as an adult by The Guardian Newspaper
This article tells the story of four people and how they developed their friendships, with tips and advice from psychologist Linda Blair.
The Asperger Love Guide: A Practical Guide for Adults with Asperger's Syndrome to Seeking, Establishing and Maintaining Successful Relationship by Genevieve Edmonds & Dean Worton This book breaks down the social, emotional and practical aspects of relationships.
Asperger Syndrome & Social Relationships by Genevieve Edmonds and Luke BeardonThis book offers advice and support for people with Asperger’s Syndrome, written by individuals who have Asperger’s Syndrome.
The Other Half of Asperger Syndrome (Autism Spectrum Disorder): A Guide to Living in an Intimate Relationship with a Partner who is on the Autism Spectrum by Maxine Aston This book offers information and advice for the partners of people with Asperger’s Syndrome, and includes strategies for dealing with relationship challenges, including intimacy, communication, and social difficulties.
Marriage & Lasting Relationships with Asperger’s Syndrome (Autistic Spectrum Disorder) Successful Strategies for Couples or Counselors by Eva A MendesThis book offers counselling strategies for long-term couples who have Asperger’s Syndrome.This book explores common challenges including diagnosis, mental health, sexual compatibility, sensory needs, executive functioning, theory of mind, communication, and co-parenting.
Troubleshooting Relationships on the Autism Spectrum: A User's Guide to Resolving Relationship Problems by Ashley StanfordThis book tackles common relationship difficulties with a practical troubleshooting approach, including strategies and guidance. The book includes bulleted lists, summaries, scripts and example scenarios. This book covers communication, executive functioning, mindblindness, attachment, intimacy, co-habiting, and raising a family.
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Tourette SyndromeBack up
Tourette syndrome (TS) is a neurological disorder characterized by repetitive, involuntary movements and vocalisations (sounds) called tics.
The early symptoms are typically noticed first in childhood and the tics could be either simple sudden, brief, repetitive movements or sounds e.g eye blinking, facial grimacing, shoulder shrugging; throat-clearing or complex e.g. facial grimacing combined with a head twist and a shoulder shrug. Tics come and go over time, varying in type, frequency, location, and severity.
Many people with TS often experience additional developmental difficulties that often cause more challenges than the tics themselves. Although TS can be a lifelong condition, most people experience their worst tic symptoms in their early teens, with improvement occurring in the late teens and continuing into adulthood.
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What our team offersBack up
Diagnostic process for Tourette’s
The first step to receiving a diagnosis for Tourette’s is speaking to your GP or other relevant healthcare professional.
If they think you would benefit from our service, a screening appointment will take place initially to determine whether an assessment is required. If this is agreed the person will be added to the waiting list. The diagnostic process typically includes 1 face to face appointment with a psychologist.
The appointment will include a semi-structured interview relating to past and presence of tics. Often we are able to give you feedback at the end of the appointment with regards to the outcome of the assessment, and possible follow up options. If medication is appropriate and something the person wishes to explore we will direct you to the appropriate service.
If possible it is helpful to bring someone with you who has known you since you were a child i.e. parent or carer. This is to provide additional background information about your childhood.
Support we offer
Support options may include behavioural interventions, or advice about other services.
What if I am already diagnosed with Tourette's?
If you already have a diagnosis you may be able to recieve short-term support from our team (as above). An appointment would be offered to assess whether we are the best team to support your needs.
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Tourettes resoucesBack up
NHS information about Tourette's, symptoms and treatments
The UK’s leading support and research charity for people with Tourette Syndrome and their families
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