Specialist Autism Assessment Practitioner

This is an exciting opportunity to join a highly specialist, multi-disciplinary team providing diagnostic assessments and post-diagnostic interventions for adults with suspected/diagnosed autism. Our team are passionate about delivering person-centred, strengths-based assessments and specialist post-diagnostic interventions for neurodivergent individuals. We pride ourselves on being a supportive and inclusive team, including staff with lived-experience of autism and ADHD.

We would welcome applications from AHPs with a special interest and significant experience of working with autistic individuals. Experience of working in an adult mental health setting is also desirable. Full training in our assessment process will be offered within the induction period.

SAANS is a well-established service and has been providing diagnostic assessments for both Sheffield and National residents for over 10 years. We are situated in the leafy suburb of Nether Edge, with free on-site parking and within walking distance of bus services. We have good links with both Sheffield Universities and voluntary services and support research and training placements to students in AHP, Clinical Psychology and Psychiatry.

While the role will be primarily clinic based, we do offer opportunities for flexible/remote working with options for online assessments in some cases., This post will involve providing specialist assessments to ascertain whether referred clients meets the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Assessments will be based upon the appropriate use, interpretation and integration of complex data from a variety of sources particularly, but not exclusively, semi-structured interviews and self-report measures. This will also involve identifying alternative or co-occurring neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions. Our standard assessments involve a one-off appointment of up to 3 hours, with the option of MDT discussion and further appointment in complex cases. In this way, the post-holder must be able to work autonomously and have the ability to sustain concentration for extended periods and have excellent communication, time management and organisational skills to ensure diagnostic reports are prepared in a timely manner following assessment.

While the role will be primarily assessment-based, there may also be opportunities to deliver specialist interventions relevant to your professional background and to contribute to the delivery of training, consultation and supervision of staff within the trust to promote autism-inclusive ways of working.Relevant experience and skills in delivering specialist interventions, consultation and training is therefore also desirable.

At SHSC, we prioritise the well-being and safety of both our service users and employees. It is our policy and a condition of employment that all employees must join the DBS Update Service. This service carries an annual fee, which employees are responsible for paying up front. However, employees may claim this cost back through the Trust's Employee Expenses Reimbursement Policy. For those requiring a Basic DBS check, it is necessary to register for a DBS Online Account.