Heather Dilks-Hopper
Heather Dilks-Hopper
Principal Clinical Psychologist specialising in working with autistic children and young people
Dr Heather Dilks-Hopper is a registered Clinical Psychologist specialising in working with autistic children and their families. She currently works as a member of the Senior Management Team for an independent specialist school for autistic children who have complex needs and challenging behaviour. Heather is Head of Therapy and manages a multi-disciplinary team of therapists including Speech and Language Therapists and Occupational Therapists. She is also Mental Health Lead for the school as well as being responsible for the implementation of Positive Behaviour Support and behaviour management across the school. Heather has developed a wealth of experience assessing and supporting young people with complex needs.
Heather has always been passionate about supporting children with additional needs, including autism and other learning disabilities. Prior to her current role, Heather worked in the NHS for eight years in a Child and Adolescent Mental Health Team for children with Learning Disabilities (CAMHS-LD). She worked with young people, parents and schools on a range of issues from toileting and sleep difficulties to challenging behaviour and complex mental health needs. Part of her role included supporting local autism assessment clinics.
Heather also co-led the nationally recognised Intensive Therapeutic and Short Breaks Service (ITSBS) which worked to support children with learning disabilities to stay at home with their families and prevent the need for residential placements.
Heather is warm, friendly and passionate about supporting young people and families. She is extremely knowledgeable about autism and learning difficulties and will work hard for your family to make sure you get the support you need.
Heather is registered with the Health and Care Professions Council and holds a doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology.
Publications:
- Dilks-Hopper, Heather, Jacobs, Chloe, Sholl, Catherine, Gore, Nick J. and Falconer, Caroline (2019) The Ealing Intensive Therapeutic and Short Breaks Service: an update five years on. Tizard Learning Disability Review, 24 (2). pp. 56-63. ISSN 1359-5474.
