Lily Scanlan

About Me

I have always had a specialist interest in Autism and Neurodiversity. I grew up in a neurodivergent family and have always been on a journey of advocacy and raising awareness on neurodiversity. I myself was diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood, and understand how the diagnostic assessment process can feel and have used this to further guide my practice. I am passionate about what I do and value the importance of co-production between clinicians and service users to shape processes.

I have over 10 year’s experience working with children and young people with learning disabilities, Autism, ADHD, complex speech and language needs and social/emotional and mental health needs. Prior to my training as a Speech Therapist, I previously worked in a Specialist School and as a Youth Worker for SEND Children and Young people. I am currently an appointed SEND Governor to a local school.

I qualified as a Speech and Language Therapist in 2019. Since then, I have worked in various settings, including Specialist and Mainstream Schools, Early Years centres, community clinics and specialist services within the NHS and private sector. More recently, I lead on the development for a new Autism service for children & young people within the NHS, working closely with CAMHS, paediatricians and adult services to provide better outcomes for Autistic people seeking referrals.

I am a qualified ADOS-2 assessor and experienced in completing neurodevelopmental assessments for children and adults. I believe my extensive background working with Autistic people, and specialist interest in neurodiversity across the lifespan has guided my diagnostic practice. I am really passionate about the neurodiversity movement, prompting neuro-affirming practices and strengths-based approaches. My goal is to support individuals seeking an assessment, on a journey to better understand themselves, their traits and differences and with this, reach their full potential.