AUTISM ASSESSMENT

Autism (also referred to as Autism Spectrum Disorder or ASD) is an experience associated with difficulties in social communication and interaction.

For example, an individual on the autism spectrum may have difficulties with:

Starting and engaging in back-and-forth conversation
Sharing of emotions and interests
Nonverbal communication (e.g. facial expressions and gestures)
Developing and understanding relationships (e.g. adjusting behaviour to suit social contexts)

Individuals on the autism spectrum also often experience restricted or repetitive patterns of behaviour, interests, or activities, for example:

Repetitive motor movements or speech
Inflexibility in routines or ways of doing things
Interests that seem more restricted or fixated than typical
Under- or over-reactivity to sensory experiences (e.g. touch, temperature, pain, lights, sounds)

Please note, some individuals with autism may not often display these traits outwardly due to 'camouflaging' or 'masking' behaviour i.e. attempts to 'fit in' or appear 'typical' around others. This possibility would be explored as part of the assessment process.

Autism is often accompanied by other forms of neurodivergence or mental health diagnoses. For example, 50 - 70% of those who meet the criteria for ASD also meet the criteria for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

Formal assessment and diagnosis often provides increased understanding of self and relationships, improvement in emotional difficulties, and may facilitate access to support and resources (e.g. NDIS).

WHO IS THIS ASSESSMENT FOR?

The Harbour Clinic offers a comprehensive assessment of Autism for adults who are verbally fluent and who do not have suspected intellectual disability.

HOW DO I KNOW IF I MIGHT MEET THE CRITERIA FOR A DIAGNOSIS?

While no screening questionnaire is 100% accurate, it may be worthwhile completing the following screening questionnaire at https://psychology-tools.com/test/raads-14 to gain insight into the degree to which you relate to common autistic traits.

Please note, as mentioned above, some individuals with autism may have lower scores on screening questionnaires due to 'camouflaging' or 'masking' behaviour i.e. attempts to 'fit in' or appear 'typical' around others. This possibility would be explored as part of the assessment process.

WHAT IS INVOLVED?

The assessment involves the following components:

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QUESTIONNAIRES

Questionnaires to assess potential mental health conditions which may appear similar to autism.

If at all possible, questionnaires about current and past indicators of autistic traits are also completed by someone who knew you in childhood and someone who knows you currently (these can be the same person).

These are completed online prior to your session.

CLINICAL INTERVIEW

A structured clinical interview with a clinical psychologist, assessing the key criteria for Autism.

The interview takes place remotely (via videoconference).

The interview typically takes 3-4 hours (with breaks).

Frequently Asked Questions

HOW MUCH DOES THE ASSESSMENT COST?

$1490 total for autism assessment and report.

$1980 total for combined autism and ADHD asessment and report. Half the fee is payable before your session. The balance is due before the report is produced.

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE IT TAKE TO GET MY RESULTS?

Once you have completed the assessment process a report will usually be available within 2 weeks.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT IF I RECEIVE A DIAGNOSIS OF AUTISM?

When you receive your report you will have an opportunity to debrief with the assessing psychologist. Following diagnosis, learning more about how autism influences your life and relationships is highly recommended.

Many people also find therapy helpful with processing previous life events through the lens of autism, and making plans for how to move in valued life directions with greater undertanding and effectiveness.

The Harbour Clinic can assist with any documentation that is required to access supports or accommodations (e.g. NDIS).

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT IF I RECEIVE A DIAGNOSIS OF ADHD?

Treatment for ADHD most commonly involves a combination of medication and behavioural strategies.

Medication can help you improve your capacity to sustain attention in order to learn new behavioural strategies.

Many people with ADHD find an ADHD coach or ADHD skills group helpful.

The Harbour Clinic can assist with any documentation that is required to access supports or accommodations (e.g. for education or work).

DO YOU PRESCRIBE MEDICATION?

Psychologists are able to provide a diagnosis of Autism, however we do not prescribe medication.

If there are other experiences also occurring alongside Autism (e.g. anxiety, depression, or ADHD) and medication is desired, we recommend referral to a psychiatrist.

WHAT IS THE BENEFIT OF UNDERGOING AN ASSESSMENT?

Often those with undiagnosed Autism, ADHD or other difficulties have been struggling for years without knowing why.

Some erroneously see their difficulties as character flaws.

For many it is a relief to understand the source of their difficulties - whether it be Autism and/or ADHD, or are more likely to be related to another diagnosis.

Although we do not prescribe medication, having an existing diagnosis if you do end up seeing a psychiatrist can save time. Some psychiatrists ask for a prior assessment by a psychologist before your psychiatry appointment.