Autism & ADHD Assessments (12+ & Adults)

Overview

Autism, ADHD, and combined autism–ADHD assessments are available for adolescents (12+) and adults.

These assessments are collaborative, strengths-based, and adapted to communication preferences and access needs wherever possible.

The process is conversational and telehealth-based, focusing on lived experience, developmental history, and current functioning—rather than relying on checklists or observable behaviours alone.

Who seeks assessment

You (or your family member) may seek assessment to:

  • better understand long-standing patterns in thinking, communication, and daily functioning

  • explore experiences of masking, burnout, or feeling “out of step”

  • gain clarity, validation, or formal diagnosis

  • support access to work, study, or services

  • make sense of patterns noticed over time or through others

Many people seeking assessment have spent years adapting to expectations, particularly those presumed female at birth (PFAB) and gender-diverse people.

Assessment is not about proving whether someone is “neurodivergent enough.”
It focuses on understanding your experiences and providing meaningful clarity, regardless of diagnostic outcome.

What to expect

Most assessments involve:

Initial Appointment (90 mins)

A detailed, collaborative exploration of your experiences and goals.

Follow-up sessions (1–3 x 60 mins)

Conversational assessment adapted to your communication style.

Report (optional)

A written report can be provided if needed.

Timeframe

Most assessments are completed over 2–4 appointments, with reports typically provided within 2–3 weeks of the final session.

Approach

This assessment approach is:

  • Neuroaffirming and strengths-based

  • Conversational (MIGDAS-2 informed)

  • Adapted to communication preferences

  • Attentive to masking, burnout, and context

Sessions may include:

  • pacing and use of pauses

  • written or chat-based responses

  • flexibility in how experiences are explored

At times of high stress, some young people may be temporarily non-speaking or find verbal communication difficult. Alternative communication methods can be incorporated where possible.

The ADOS-2 is not used within this practice.
This reflects a preference for approaches that prioritise lived experience, context, and relational understanding.

For young people

For adolescents, the assessment process may include:

  • time with a parent or caregiver

  • time with the young person individually

This supports understanding of both developmental history and lived experience.

Fees

  • Initial Appointment (90 mins): $380

  • Follow-up sessions (60 mins): $260

  • Report writing (optional): $260/hour (typically 1–2 hours)

  • Feedback session (optional): $260

No more appointments will be scheduled than are necessary to meet the goals of the assessment.

Important information

  • Assessments are provided via secure telehealth across Australia

  • Medicare rebates are generally not available for adult assessments (25+)

  • Limited rebates may be available for individuals under 25 with specialist referral

  • Psychologists do not prescribe medication

  • Please check with your prescribing provider if reports are required for medication

Reports

Reports are written to support:

  • understanding and self-knowledge

  • access to appropriate supports

  • communication with other providers (with your consent)

They may include:

  • developmental history

  • assessment findings

  • interpretation and recommendations

Some systems (e.g. NDIS) require documentation of functional impact.
Where this is needed, reports are written thoughtfully while still recognising strengths and context.

Not sure if this is right for you?

You’re welcome to book an initial appointment and we can clarify together.