Taylored Psychology
Assessments
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Assessment types
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An Autism assessment gathers comprehensive information about an individual's behaviour, development, social interaction and functional capacity. It can provide support and guidance for individuals and families by offering an understanding of the individual's neurotype as well as strengths and challenges, and can help access appropriate resources and support services.
Taylored Psychology use the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR) criteria for Autism, which is the preferred method of assessment by the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). Our Autism assessments and reports can be used to apply for the NDIS.
Taylored Psychology also ensure that Autism assessments align with the Autism CRC National Guidelines for the assessment and diagnosis of Autism in Australia. Assessments may be undertaken as a Lead Practitioner Diagnostic Evaluation or a Consensus Team Diagnostic Evaluation.
Lead Practitioner Diagnostic Evaluation
Suited to clients whose clinical presentation is sufficiently clear and a diagnostic decision can be reliably made with high confidence by one suitably qualified and experienced clinician. We primarily undertake Lead Practitioner Diagnostic Evaluations by psychologists, which will result in one of three outcomes:
- High confidence that the individual does not meet diagnostic criteria for Autism or another clinical diagnosis.
- High confidence that the individual does meet diagnostic criteria for Autism or another clinical diagnosis.
- High confidence not yet being achieved — a Consensus Team Diagnostic Evaluation is required.
Consensus Team Diagnostic Evaluation
Suited to individuals whose presentation is more complex or subtle. Two psychologists (at least one clinically endorsed) will perform these assessments. Where a high confidence diagnostic decision cannot be made due to complexity, referral recommendations will be provided and we will collaborate with other clinicians as required.
Autism Levels Assessments
A levels assessment reviews the severity of functional difficulty to either assign or review the severity level for an Autism diagnosis. Severity levels range from 1–3:
- Level 1: Requiring support
- Level 2: Requiring substantial support
- Level 3: Requiring very substantial support
To undertake a levels assessment, you will need to provide evidence of your diagnosis (e.g. assessment report or letter).
What is Autism?
Autism is a neurodevelopmental difference, meaning an Autistic brain is structured differently to a neurotypical brain. Individuals with an Autistic neurotype think, feel, interact with others and experience the environment in unique ways. The diagnostic criteria includes differences in: social-emotional reciprocity, developing and maintaining relationships, how someone moves their body and uses speech, nonverbal communication, use of routines and preferences for consistency, sensory processing, and how someone engages with their interests and passions.
There is no treatment or "cure" for Autism — it is a difference in how the brain works and does not need to be fixed. Neuro-affirming supports focus on implementing strategies tailored to the individual's unique needs and goals.
Further information: Autism Awareness Australia – getting a diagnosis
Ready to take the next step? Phone or email us to book an assessment appointment today.
If you're unsure which assessment is right for you, our admin team is happy to guide you.
Assessment fees
The assessment process starts with an initial 1-hour appointment ($260), the cost of which is included in the below fees. After this appointment you can choose whether to continue with an assessment.
Autism & ADHD Assessment Packages
Autism
$2,000
1st: $260 · 2nd: $580 · 3rd: $580 · 4th: $580
Autism Levels
$700
Split payment not typically provided — enquire if needed.
ADHD
$1,300
1st: $260 · 2nd: $347 · 3rd: $347 · 4th: $346
Autism & ADHD Combined
$2,500
1st: $260 · 2nd: $747 · 3rd: $747 · 4th: $746
Add-ons: Add a cognitive assessment +$900 or a learning assessment +$900 to any Autism or ADHD package. The additional fee is paid at the relevant appointment.
Cognitive & Learning Assessment Packages
Cognitive
$1,400
1st: $260 · 2nd: $380 · 3rd: $380 · 4th: $380
Learning
$1,400
1st: $260 · 2nd: $380 · 3rd: $380 · 4th: $380
Cognitive & Learning Combined
$2,300
1st: $260 · 2nd: $680 · 3rd: $680 · 4th: $680
Tailored Assessment Packages
If you do not require access to funding and support services but would still like to undergo an assessment for your own self-knowledge and understanding, please contact us. A tailored assessment package and reduced fees can be negotiated.
All assessment packages include: initial assessment appointment, all relevant clinical interviews, review of documents, standardised test administration, psychometric questionnaires, a feedback session, and a comprehensive assessment report. The final report will not be provided until total payment is received in full.
Assessment funding options
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Medicare rebates are available for the assessment and diagnosis of complex neurodevelopmental disorders such as Autism and intellectual disability. Access requires a referral from either a paediatrician or psychiatrist under Medicare's Complex Neurodevelopmental Disorders Scheme.
Medicare's Complex Neurodevelopmental Disorders Scheme
The scheme encourages a multi-disciplinary approach to assessment and diagnosis. With an appropriate referral, it is possible to claim a maximum of eight Medicare rebates for a maximum of eight hours of assessment services with a psychologist (one rebate per hour).
Your paediatrician or psychiatrist can only refer for up to 4 assessment sessions initially. If further sessions are required, a second referral is necessary (also to a maximum of 4 sessions).
Please note: the individual being assessed must be under the age of 25 years and you can only claim these rebates once in a lifetime.
Once the assessment is complete, we will provide your paediatrician or psychiatrist with a written report detailing assessment findings, diagnoses, and recommendations.