Exploring Autism through Comprehensive Assessments

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What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a lifelong developmental condition characterised by difficulties in social interaction, communication, restricted and repetitive interests and behaviours, and sensory sensitivities (Autism Spectrum Australia).

How might a formal assessment of ASD help?

• ​Accurate diagnosis is essential for understanding the individual's strengths, challenges and specific needs
• Formal assessment can open doors to specialised services such as those including education, therapy, social skills training and vocational support if needed
• Understanding and awareness can increase self-compassion and help to reduce the impact on daily functioning, including confusion and self-blame, and allows individuals to make informed decisions about their own life or that of their teenager
• Highlighting the potential for growth and personal development with proper assessment and support.
  
  

If you or your loved ones have noticed persistent challenges in these areas, seeking an autism assessment can provide clarity and understanding.

• At inSync for life Psychology, we recognise the importance of addressing these concerns and providing clarity through professional autism assessments.
• Our aim is to assist individuals in gaining a comprehensive understanding of their strengths, challenges, and unique characteristics.
• Through our assessments, we can help identify if ASD is present and provide valuable insights for developing personalised strategies and accessing appropriate resources.
• Our team of highly skilled and compassionate psychologists combine expertise with a warm and friendly approach, ensuring a comfortable and supportive environment throughout the assessment process.
• We understand that seeking an assessment can be a significant step, and we are here to guide you every step of the way.

What is the Assessment Process?

For an assessment of Autism, our Psychologist will sit with the individual and make some observations of the interaction and ask a series of questions.  The Psychologist will gather information about the client's background and life in general to support their professional diagnosis of autism. The Psychologist will also request to interview a parent or significant other who can provide corroborative information, particularly in regards to early childhood and development.

Some of the information that we might obtain from you or from those who know you well:

• Developmental history: The psychologist will gather information about your developmental milestones, early childhood behaviours, and any difficulties or differences noticed by caregivers or teachers.
• Observation:  The psychologist will make observations of behaviour and interactions in various settings to assess social communication skills, eye contact, use of gestures, and understanding of social cues.
• Other relevant information:  This might include information about other symptoms you might be having such as anxiety or depression, or information required to differentiate ASD from other mental health disorders or intellectual disability.
• Collaboration: The psychologist may also seek collateral information from parents, teachers, or other professionals involved in your life to gain a comprehensive understanding of functioning and behaviour across different contexts.
  
  

How does it work?
Throughout the assessment process, the psychologist will be looking for specific signs and symptoms of ASD, including but not limited to difficulties in social communication and interaction, sensory sensitivities, restricted and repetitive interests and behaviors. They will consider the presence and severity of these symptoms, as well as the impact on daily functioning, to make a diagnosis of ASD or provide appropriate recommendations for further support.

It's important to note that the assessment process may differ depending on the individual's age, functioning level, and specific concerns. The psychologist will tailor the assessment to the unique needs and circumstances of each individual being assessed for ASD.

What happens after the assessment?

After an assessment of an adult for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), the next steps typically involve:

• A feedback session where the psychologist will discuss the assessment findings and diagnosis (if applicable).
• Recommendations for interventions, therapies, and support services will be provided.
• A written report summarising the assessment results, diagnostic impressions, and recommendations will be prepared.
• Referrals to specialists may be made for specialised interventions.
• A treatment plan will be collaboratively developed to address the challenges associated with ASD.

Cost?

Given the importance of this issue, we aim to keep the cost of an assessment and detailed report to a minimum.  Payment plans can be organised.  Please contact us for further information.

Contact us for further information 
Contact us here and we will get back to you to discuss your questions and make arrangements for an appointment.

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