Autism is a neurological condition that may affect how people interact with others, communicate, learn, and behave. Although autism can be diagnosed at any age, diagnostically it is described as a ‘developmental disorder’ because symptoms generally appear in the first two years of life. Autism is known as a ‘spectrum’ condition because there is wide variation in the type and severity of symptoms people experience. People with autism may have difficulty with social communication and interaction, restricted interests, and repetitive behaviors.
AUTISM ASSESSMENT PROCESS
At Inkblot, our autism assessments are comprehensive, neuroaffirming, and tailored to help understand your child’s unique profile across developmental, cognitive, social, and sensory domains. Because autism and ADHD often co-occur, our standard autism assessment is designed to assess for both. Attention and executive functioning are explored throughout the process, allowing us to provide a comprehensive understanding and dual diagnosis where appropriate.
Our standard autism assessment process includes:
Parent/Guardian Interview – 2 hours
A detailed, collaborative discussion covering developmental history, behavioural observations, and social/emotional functioning.
Includes the MIGDAS (Montgomery–Informed Guided Diagnostic Interview)
Developmental and family history
Additional considerations such as attention, executive function, and early learning
Teacher Consultation
A 30-minute phone consultation or
Completion of a comprehensive teacher report form
Online Screeners
Following the initial appointments, we send out evidence-based screening tools to gather information on:
Adaptive functioning
Social communication
Attention and executive functioning
Assessment Sessions
Cognitive Assessment - 1 hour
Sensory based interview - 1 hour
Feedback - 30 minutes
Approximately 4 weeks following the assessment
Comprehensive report provided including recommendations
TOTAL FEE $2300
There is a $100 non-refundable booking fee, credited to the completed assessment cost, taken at the time of booking. $700 is payable at the time of parent interview, and the remaining fee is split across assessment sessions.
Optional Add-Ons
Specific Learning Disorder (SLD) - 1 hour
Functional (academic) assessment
TOTAL FEE $2800
AFTER THE ASSESSMENT
If your child receives a diagnosis of autism, we may recommend:
A Functional Capacity Assessment by an Occupational Therapist for NDIS access planning
Paediatric review for formal co-signing of diagnosis if required
Best practice Autism assessment usually involves collaboration between two or more practitioners. We prefer to work with Paediatricians in order for our clients to be able to access school-based funding as per Department of Education requirements. You do not require a referral from a Paediatrician to complete Autism assessment, however it can attract a Medicare rebate. We are not able to offer single diagnostician assessments for Autism, although you may be able to use the report to apply for NDIS while waiting to see a Paediatrician. We cannot guarantee acceptance of reports by NDIS or Paediatricians, however we can collaborate and provide any further evidence required to support a diagnosis and funding.
The Psychologist will consult with the Paediatrician to produce a diagnostic report. A comprehensive report will be provided to the family following the Psychologist’s assessment. The below pricing is for the psychological component of an autism assessment.
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