Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) involves neurological symptoms that are not explained by structural neurological disease, but which are real, distressing and can significantly disrupt daily functioning. In children and young people, FND often reflects a complex interaction between neurobiological vulnerability, emotional regulation, cognitive processes and environmental stressors.

 

At NeuroKids, we provide specialist assessment-informed support for children and young people with FND, focusing on understanding symptom patterns and supporting functional recovery across home, school and community settings.

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Who We Support

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We support children and young people presenting with functional neurological symptoms or medically unexplained symptoms that are impacting day-to-day functioning.

 

Symptoms we support include:

• Functional (non-epileptic) seizures

• Functional movement disorders

• Functional speech, sensory or motor symptoms

• Presentations where medical investigations have not identified a structural cause

 

Support is tailored to the child’s developmental level and individual presentation, recognising that symptoms may fluctuate and evolve over time.​​

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Why Assessment Matters First

 

We typically begin with a structured assessment or formulation process to clarify the nature and impact of symptoms. Assessment findings provide the foundation for all subsequent intervention and liaison.

 

Assessment allows us to:

• Understand symptom patterns and triggers

• Identify cognitive, emotional and behavioural contributing factors

• Differentiate FND from other neurological or neurodevelopmental conditions

• Establish realistic, functional goals for intervention

• Provide clear explanations to families and schools

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How We Support After Assessment

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Once needs are understood, we provide time-limited, goal-focused intervention designed to support the child or young person in a targeted and structured way. 

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Support main include:

• Psychological Support: Targeting emotional regulation, anxiety and symptom management

• Cognitive and Attentional Strategies: To reduce symptom reinforcement

• Behavioural Approaches: To support re-engagement with normal activities

• Family Psychoeducation: To promote consistent responses to symptoms

• School Liaison: To support safe, graduated reintegration and accommodations

• Coordination: Liasion with medical and therapy teams where appropriate

 

Support is reviewed and adjusted over time, with the aim of improving functional independence and quality of life.

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What This Service Does Not Provide

 

It is important to note that this service assumes relevant medical and diagnostic investigations have already been completed (or are being managed by the appropriate medical teams).

 

Psychological therapy is most appropriate once relevant medical and diagnostic assessments have been completed.

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This service does not include:

• Initial diagnostic assessments or medical investigations

• Support where neurological, paediatric or other medical evaluation has not yet been completed

• General wellbeing or exploratory consultations

• “Let’s see what’s going on” sessions without a clear functional question

• Ongoing open-ended therapy without formulation or review

• Advocacy or school pressure without an assessment-informed plan

 

Where further medical investigation, diagnostic clarification, or an alternative clinical pathway is indicated, this will be advised and families will be signposted appropriately.​​​​

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Who This Service Is For

 

This service is most appropriate when:

• FND has been diagnosed or strongly suspected

• Symptoms are impacting daily functioning, school attendance or emotional wellbeing

• There is a clear question or goal for assessment or intervention

• Findings will be used to guide rehabilitation, education or care planning

 

Where NeuroKids is formally instructed by a case manager or solicitor, FND assessment and intervention may be delivered as part of a structured medico-legal or rehabilitation programme. Work is tailored to the questions set out in the letter of instruction and integrated with multidisciplinary care planning.

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To enquire about neurodevelopmental support or clarification of suitability, please complete our enquiry form or email info@neurokids.co.uk with relevant background information and the specific question you want addressed.