Our Services
Neurodevelopmental and cognitive assessments can be completed within a hybrid of online and in person appointments. Therapy sessions and supervision can be conducted face-face or online. Research has shown that online sessions can be effective, safe and more convenient for many.
Why choose Open Mind Psychology?
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We only conduct assessments that follow NICE guidelines. This ensures the report and outcome is informed by best practice and we are working within an ethical framework.
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Every Autism assessment will have a minimum of two registered and highly experienced practitioners involved.
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All our assessments use standardised measures, and incorporate 'gold standard' assessment tools, such as the ADOS-2.
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We work in an inclusive and neurodiverse affirming way. The Open Mind Psychology ethos is that diversity should be celebrated.
Neurodevelopmental Diagnostic Assessments
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a diagnostic term used to describe a particular pattern of differences in how a person experiences and responds to the world around them. This may include differences in social communication and interaction, alongside restricted or repetitive patterns of behaviour, interests or activities. The term "spectrum" reflects the considerable variation in how these characteristics may present and the different strengths, needs and challenges an individual may experience.
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) describes a persistent pattern of difficulties relating to attention, impulse control, activity levels and executive functioning. These may include difficulties with inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity, although presentation can vary considerably between individuals and across different stages of life.
Following a diagnosis of ADHD, some individuals may wish to consider medication as part of their support. We are able to recommend a private ADHD treatment centre that accepts diagnoses made by our service.
Please note
For child assessments, you must be able to provide evidence from two referrers supporting the assessment, for example yourself and another professional who knows your child, or evidence that your child is already on an NHS assessment waiting list.
It is important to recognise that diagnostic frameworks are continually evolving and that there remains ongoing research and debate regarding how conditions such as autism and ADHD are best understood, including the interaction between biological, psychological, developmental and environmental factors. A diagnosis is therefore not intended to define an individual, but to provide a framework for understanding patterns of strengths and difficulties and considering what support may be helpful.
Therapy Services
No one model works for everyone. Dr Eloise Smith work as an integrative psychologist, valuing person-centred therapy. Central to her approach is creating a compassionate and trusting space where clients can feel safe to explore, heal, and grow.
Approaches drawn on:
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Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
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Eye Movement Desensitisation and Re-Processing (EMDR)
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Exposure, Response Prevention (ERP)
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Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
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Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT)
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Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)
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Solution-Focused Therapy
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Systemic Psychotherapy, including Narrative Therapy
Common difficulties supported:
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Anxiety/ worry (e.g., OCD, GAD, panic, social anxiety, phobias, separation anxiety)
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Trauma / Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
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Depression / low mood / sadness
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Emotional dysregulation and behavioural difficulties
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Low self-esteem
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Friendship / relationship difficulties
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School / work-related concerns
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Impact of physical health problems (e.g., diabetes, epilepsy)
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Concerns related to neurodiverse conditions
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Bereavement and loss
Although Dr Eloise is experienced in working with a moderate to severe range of mental health conditions, some difficulties require more intensive support or crisis services. Should that be the case, she will facilitate your referral to an appropriate team.
Cognitive Assessments for Children and Adolescents
A cognitive assessment (WISC-V) provides detailed insights into a child’s (6 - 16 years old) level of functioning and abilities. It identifies strengths, weaknesses, and areas that may require further support or adaptations to help a child reach their full potential.
A cognitive assessment formally evaluates a child’s intelligence (IQ) and abilities across various domains, such as verbal and non-verbal skills, memory, and processing speed. It involves engaging tasks like puzzles, answering questions, and memory-based activities.
Clinical Supervision
Dr Eloise offers supportive and collaborative clinical psychology supervision tailored for clinical psychologists and other mental health professionals.
Sessions are available online for flexibility and convenience. Get in contact to discuss your specific supervision needs.