Aligning Minds
Neuroaffirmative Practice
Aligning Minds provides high quality, neuroaffirmative neurodevelopmental assessments that respect and accurately reflect the lived experiences of individuals. We created this service because too many assessments are rushed, deficit-focused, or leave people feeling misunderstood — causing lasting harm to identity and wellbeing.
What sets Aligning Minds apart is the quality and accessibility of our service. Every assessment is conducted by two experienced Clinical Psychologists, ensuring a depth and balance of understanding that is not always offered elsewhere. There is no waiting list, allowing individuals to access support when they need it most, and we offer a flexible approach by travelling to you to carry out assessments in a comfortable, familiar environment.
We believe assessment should be collaborative and empowering. Grounded in current research and the voices of neurodivergent people themselves, our approach focuses on strengths as well as challenges, replacing one-size-fits-all assessments with thoughtful, person centred ones.
Kirsty and Charlotte are passionate about fostering understanding and acceptance through a neuroaffirmative lens. They recognise that navigating non-inclusive environments can lead to overwhelm, burnout, and a sense of not fitting in — and this understanding shapes every assessment they conduct. For many, the process isn’t just about diagnosis; it’s about gaining clarity, language, and a deeper, validating understanding of themselves.
Dr Charlotte Clark is a HCPC Registered Clinical Psychologist and Systemic Practitioner with over a decade of NHS experience. She specialises in working with children and young people with complex mental health needs, including trauma, neurodiversity (e.g. autism and ADHD), and emotional regulation difficulties. Alongside her direct clinical work, she actively supports families and professional systems to build neuroaffirmative approaches to care and understanding.
DClinPsy, University of Southampton | HCPC Registered Practitioner Psychologist
Dr Kirsty Gregory is a HCPC Registered Clinical Psychologist with over a decade of NHS experience. She specialises in supporting neurodivergent young people and adults — including those with autism, ADHD, or learning differences — with self-understanding, self-advocacy, and navigation of a world not always designed with neurodiversity in mind. Her work also encompasses complex developmental, emotional, and cognitive experiences, often within the context of long-term health needs. Her approach is compassionate, collaborative, and deeply affirming of lived experience.
DClinPsy, University of Southampton | PGDip Clinical Neuropsychology | HCPC Registered & BPS Chartered
Currently, we offer comprehensive Autism Assessments completed by two Clinical Psychologists. We know how challenging travelling can be, so we can offer assessments at our base near Southampton, Hampshire, at a location closer to your home, or at your home – if appropriate.
1. Initial Contact
Contact us via our website to refer yourself or your child.
2. Screening Questionnaires
We send questionnaires covering autism and co-occurring needs and challenges such as anxiety and depression. For child assessments, schools are also asked to contribute.
3. Clinical Review
Once all questionnaires are received, a £150 fee is charged, and a clinician reviews the information to confirm whether a full assessment is indicated.
4. Developmental Interview (ADI-R)
A detailed 2–3 hour interview with parents or carers, conducted via Zoom, at our Hampshire clinic, or at your home (travel costs apply).
5. Face-to-Face Assessment (ADOS-2)
An approximately one-hour observation-based assessment at our Hampshire clinic or your home (travel costs apply).
6. Report and Feedback
A comprehensive written report is provided, followed by a Zoom feedback session of up to 60 minutes to discuss findings and answer questions.
7. Ongoing Support
We can signpost you to appropriate clinicians and services if further support is needed.
Additional Costs
Home assessments are available where appropriate – please contact us to discuss fees.
Additional follow-up sessions are available at £120/hour via video call.
Please note: We are not Right to Choose registered, do not accept insurance, and are currently only able to accept self-funding clients.
Contact us to begin your assessment journey.
Contact us to begin your assessment journey.