ASSESSMENTS

Autism Testing

CHILD AND ADULT TESTING AVAILABLE

An assessment for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) may be recommended when there are concerns for a child’s social development or there are some unusual behaviours present. Social concerns may include limited interest in other children, difficulty understanding emotions and social behaviours of others, and/or poor friendships. Unusual behaviours that usually warrant an ASD assessment can include being highly fixated on certain topics of interest/hobbies, repetitive play or repetitive behaviours, under-reacting or over-reacting to sensory stimuli, ritualistic behaviour, and/or being distressed by unexpected changes in the routine or transitioning between activities.

The assessment process involves a diagnostic interview with the parents in the office. An interview with the child’s/adolescent’s teacher is also completed, usually over the phone. A range of questionnaires will be completed by the parents and teacher also. This is followed by an assessment with the child/adolescent. They will be observed in office with the psychologist and possibly in a social setting such as preschool or school. Usually a total of 3 sessions are required. Once the information has been gathered, the psychologist will collate all of the information and write up the report. The report is completed approximately within 5-6 weeks of the second appointment. When the assessment is completed the parents will meet with the psychologist again to be provided with the outcome and recommendations. 

SESSION STRUCTURE

Session 1:

• CHILD AUTISM ASSESSMENT: Initial Appointment: 2 hour parents only assessment

• ADULT AUTISM ASSESSMENT: Initial Appointment: 2 hour assessment with:

  • Parents (if available) or

  • The client and an informant (for example a sibling, long term friend or partner)

Session 2:

• CHILD/ADULT AUTISM ASSESSMENT: 2 hour client assessment

Session 3:

• Feedback session: the client will receive a report with outcome of assessment, and recommendations for further testing and/or treatment.

  • CHILD AUTISM ASSESSMENT: parents only

  • ADULT AUTISM ASSESSMENT: client

ADHD Assessment

CHILD: 5-18 YRS

ADHD Assessment

ADULT: 18 YRS+

It is common for many children to experience some trouble paying attention, sitting still, and thinking before acting. However, for children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), these difficulties can be more extreme and can affect them on a daily basis. ADHD is a neuro-developmental disorder, thus, the assessment of ADHD is a comprehensive process.

At Advantage Psychology, we offer comprehensive diagnostic assessment of ADHD and other childhood disorders. The diagnostic assessment of ADHD typically involves gathering information from parents and teachers, completing questionnaires, and the observation of the child at the Advantage Psychology practice. Given the nature of the assessment, the assessment process can take up to six sessions. Following the assessment, a feedback session is organised where by the assessing psychologist will talk through the assessment and recommendations. 

At Advantage Psychology, we understand that diagnostic reports are often required quickly. A report will be forwarded directly to your General Practitioner and/or Paediatrician after your feedback session. Clients who undergo an ADHD assessment are eligible for Medicare rebates with a current GP referral.

SESSION STRUCTURE:

Session 1:

• Initial Appointment: 1 hour with parents only

Session 2:

• 1 hour appointment with parent/s and child

Session 3:

• 2 hour testing session with child

  • The psychologist takes a holistic approach, by including liaisons with teachers, parents, and other allied health professionals, if applicable, before discussing the findings of the assessment with the client and/or parents.

Session 4:

• 1 hour feedback session with parents: the client will receive a report with outcome of assessment, and recommendations for further testing and/or treatment. (This is not booked until the report has been finalised, which is usually 4-6 weeks after session 3.)

SESSION STRUCTURE:

Session 1:

• Initial Appointment: 1.5 hours with client and parent (if available), or a sibling, partner etc

Session 2:

• 1.5 hour WAIS assessment with client

Session 3:

• 30-60 minute feedback session

  • (This is not booked until the report has been finalised, which is usually 4 weeks after session 2.)