AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER ASSESSMENT
Holistic & Comprehensive Assessment & Diagnosis
What is it and how does it work?
Autism Spectrum, a comprehensive assessment is strongly recommended to gain a deeper understanding of their unique needs and abilities. These assessments provide valuable insights into social, communication, and behavioural patterns, as well as sensory sensitivities. They are crucial for accessing early intervention services, educational adjustments, and personalised support strategies. By identifying strengths and challenges, assessments empower individuals and your families to make informed decisions, enhancing opportunities for growth, independence, and meaningful participation in the community.
Appointment No 1
The initial appointment, conducted by a clinician specialising in Mental Health and Neurodevelopment, focuses on rapport-building, comprehensive history-taking (medical, psychiatric, and family history), and assessing presenting symptoms and their impact in person. The clinician reviews the pre-assessment to ensure all diagnostic criteria are met.
For safe and effective telehealth care, we require your GP to complete a physical assessment before your second appointment. This ensures our specialists have up-to-date health information for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Any additional GP requirements will be outlined in a treatment preparation sheet provided after your first appointment.
Appointment No 2
Prior to the second appointment, our dedicated multidisciplinary team gathers for a crucial meeting. This step is key to crafting a well-thought-out treatment plan, focusing on the unique needs of each individual. Following this, the second appointment is held via telehealth and is led by one of
our specialists, depending on the age of the client this will either be our Paediatrician or Psychiatrist. In this session, the individual is involved in a thorough discussion, encompassing the comprehensive assessment findings, the diagnosis, and concluding with a clear explanation of the vital elements of the individual's treatment plan. Endorsement of the neurodevelopment assessment is carried out in this session.
Appointment No 3
Integrating neurodevelopmental insights into psychoeducation is vital for treating individuals with mental health issues. Helping the client to
better understand the relationship between their mental health and brain development will foster improved treatment engagement and effective
coping strategies. This approach also reduces mental illness stigma and involves creating a supportive recovery environment. Empowering
clients with this knowledge promotes autonomy and improves long-term outcomes, making it a key element in mental health treatment plans.
Requirements for Referral
To be eligible for a referral to our services, individuals must meet the following criteria:
Location: The individual must reside within Western Australia.
Review Process: Our team will thoroughly review every referral to ensure the young individual receives the most appropriate and effective care.
We welcome all referrals, including self-referrals, and our specialised team will carefully consider each one.
Please be advised a GP referral is required for Medicare rebate consideration.
