Neurodevelopmental Assessment Service
NDAS is the University’s Neurodevelopmental Assessment Service and is part of the PPTRC. It is unique and provides free in-house assessment for ADHD and autism to Newcastle University students. Trainee clinical psychologists undertake assessments alongside qualified clinicians. A clinic governing board oversees NDAS. The board comprises of:
- current and past Newcastle University neurodivergent students
- neurodivergent clinical professionals
- representatives from the University Disability services
- core NDAS and PTTRU staff
The NDAS team
NDAS is directed by , a Practitioner Psychologist. Dr Gullon-Scott has over 25 years of specialism in neurodevelopmental presentations.
It is co-directed by Dr Marc Woodbury-Smith, a Consultant Psychiatrist specialising in autism. Trainee clinical psychologists from the Newcastle University Clinical Psychology Doctorate programme support them.
Assessment information
The design of the NDAS Assessment has a few things in mind. The design reflects National Institute for Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines on adult ADHD and autism diagnostic assessment. It also provides detailed information about:
- cognitive functioning
- executive functioning
- sensory presentations which may impact a person’s wellbeing, mental health, study, personal or work life
Assessment processes combine structured clinical interviews, developmental history information, and structured psychometric assessment. This provides detailed personalised reports and tailored recommendations for support. In this way, the NDAS assessment and report go beyond typical diagnostic assessment processes.
Additional information
The Health and Wellbeing or Student Disability Team refers students for NDAS. NDAS provides a full Diagnostic Report and a shorter Summary Report. This is after the completion of the assessment process. These can be shared back with the Disability Team. This can help guide reasonable adjustments and to access appropriate support.