Autism & ADHD Assessments
At Inner Eastern Psychology, in addition to ASD and / or ADHD-informed therapy and support, formal assessments are available. Please note that these formal assessments require additional training, thus only a few clinicians are able to conduct these specific assessments.
Assessment for neurodiversity can be provided to both children and adults.
You can see the structure of the assessment and more information below.
Assessment Process
A comprehensive ASD or ADHD assessment includes:
Initial Assessment Session (1 hour)
Structured interview, clinical assessment, and psychoeducationComprehensive Evaluation (2-3 hours)
Administration and analysis of specialized questionnaires completed by parents/significant others, development of tailored recommendations, and preparation of summary reportFeedback Session (1 hour)
Discussion of findings, recommendations, and resources
Fee Structure & Rebates
Services are charged at our standard hourly rates. Clients with a pediatrician's referral or GP Mental Health Care Plan may be eligible for Medicare rebates on some appointments.
Additional Reports
For detailed documentation and reports required for funding applications (such as the NDIS), please contact our Client Support Team for information regarding report preparation and associated fees.
ADHD Assessment for Children
Assessments for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children are crucial for understanding their unique needs and providing the right support.
Assessments are important for children because:
Early Identification
Early diagnosis allows for timely intervention, which can significantly improve developmental outcomes. The sooner a child receives support, the better their chances of success in school, social settings, and daily life.
Tailored Interventions
A diagnosis helps create individualized education plans (IEPs) or 504 plans, ensuring that children receive the accommodations and therapies they need, such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, or behavioral support.
Understanding Behavior
Assessments help parents, teachers, and caregivers understand why a child may struggle with certain tasks or interactions. This understanding reduces frustration and promotes a more supportive environment.
Building Strengths
Assessments not only identify challenges but also highlight a child’s strengths and talents. This information can be used to build confidence and encourage growth.
Reducing Stigma
A formal diagnosis helps others understand the child’s behaviour and needs, reducing misunderstandings and promoting acceptance among peers, teachers, and family members.
ADHD Assessment for Adults
Assessments for ASD and ADHD in adults are equally important and can provide crucial insights into treatment planning and symptoms management.
Assessments are important for:
Clarity and Self-Understanding
Many adults with ASD or ADHD have struggled for years without knowing why. A diagnosis can provide clarity about lifelong challenges and help individuals better understand themselves.
Access to Support
A formal diagnosis opens the door to resources such as counseling, coaching, or medication management, which can improve daily functioning and quality of life.
Improved Relationships
Understanding one’s condition can lead to better communication and relationships with family, friends, and colleagues.
Empowerment
A diagnosis can empower adults to advocate for themselves and make informed decisions about their lives.
Note: Psychologists are unable to prescribe medications, nor provide authorisations for GPs to prescribe medications.
frequently asked questions
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In Victoria, ADHD assessment can be provided by Registered Psychologists, Psychiatrists and Paediatricians.
Psychologists can provide in-depth evaluations using clinical interviews, standardized rating scales, collateral reports from parents, teachers or partners, and if needed, cognitive psychometric testing.
Psychologists can also provide a formal diagnostic opinion and develop a psychological treatment plan, which may include therapy, coaching, skills training, further recommendations etc.
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Comprehensive ADHD assessments provided by a qualified and trained professional is reliable.
The ADHD assessments usually involved a number of data and information collection to ensure accuracy, such as:
Clinical interview to understand an individual’s developmental history and current concerns and challenges
Standardised rating scales that provide objective data
Collateral reports from parents, teachers, partners, or siblings etc.
Sometimes, cognitive or neuropsychological testing are also required
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Once assessment is complete, clients usually would attend a feedback session to review the ADHD assessment outcome, and to discuss whether the concerns provide evidence that suggest a diagnosis of ADHD.
A written report usually will be provided. This report generally outlines the symptoms, assessment findings and outcome, as well as any co-occurring issues and differential diagnoses.
Recommendations are also provided, which may include treatment approaches (such as CBT, skills coaching), further referral to a psychiatrist or paediatrician if indicated for medication consideration, and suggestions for workplace, school etc.
The recommendations provided are to ensure that the clients have some clear guidance and practical steps to improve their symptoms and quality of life.
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Being prepared for an assessment is often helpful for Psychologists to fully understand the diagnostic picture.
When attending an ADHD assessment, consider bringing a symptom diary or log of any examples of what you notice in relation to ADHD, such as examples of inattention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity. School or work evaluations, copies of previous psychological and medical reports are valuable.
You are more than welcome to send these documents to our Client Support Team prior to your appointment via email.