An autism or ADHD assessment brings together information about a child’s development, everyday experiences and support needs. A suitably qualified clinician considers that information alongside diagnostic criteria. An assessment may help clarify whether a diagnosis is appropriate and what further support or investigation could be useful.
If you are exploring autism or ADHD assessments for your child in Lalor, you may have questions about learning, communication, attention or everyday routines. At Positive Sullutions Psychology, we approach assessment with the aim of understanding your child’s strengths as well as the areas where they need support.
When might you consider an assessment
Parents sometimes contact us after noticing ongoing difficulties at home, receiving feedback from school or discussing concerns with another practitioner. Your child may also have their own questions about how they experience the world.
Examples worth discussing with a clinician include persistent difficulties managing attention or impulses, differences in social communication, or sensory experiences and routines that affect daily participation. These observations do not establish a diagnosis. A professional assessment considers the wider context and other possible explanations. [1, 2]
You do not need to decide which assessment your child needs before making an enquiry. Tell us what you have noticed, what your child finds helpful and what you hope to understand.
What is involved in an autism assessment
Australia’s National Guideline for the Assessment and Diagnosis of Autism describes a process that considers functioning and support needs, medical evaluation and diagnostic evaluation. Relevant information is considered together, rather than relying on one score or observation. [1]
Your assessment pathway may involve a developmental history, conversations with your family, observation and information from other settings or practitioners. Ask your clinician which parts are needed for your child and whether another professional should be involved.
What is involved in an ADHD assessment
An ADHD assessment looks at a pattern over time and how difficulties affect everyday functioning across settings. Clinical interviews, developmental information and input from parents or educators can contribute to the assessment. An online quiz alone cannot confirm ADHD. [2]
The Australian ADHD guideline also highlights the importance of considering other conditions that may occur alongside ADHD or help explain similar difficulties. This is one reason a thorough assessment matters. [3]
How can you prepare for your child’s assessment
Before booking, ask what information the clinician needs. Depending on the assessment, useful material might include school feedback, previous reports and examples of situations your child finds easy or difficult.
Specific observations are often more useful than broad labels. For example, explain what happens during homework, changes to routines or busy social situations. Include your child’s interests, preferred ways of communicating and strategies that already help. Their strengths belong in the conversation too.
Let us know about communication, sensory, language or access needs. We can discuss how the assessment arrangements might be adapted, and what information to share with your child beforehand.
Questions to ask before booking
Can autism and ADHD be assessed together
They are distinct conditions and can occur together. Discuss both sets of questions when you enquire so the clinician can advise on an appropriate assessment pathway. [1, 3]
How long does an assessment take and what does it cost
This depends on the assessment scope and information needed. Ask for an explanation of appointments, fees, reporting and feedback before proceeding. Our team can discuss current availability and the services relevant to your enquiry.
What happens after the assessment
Ask how findings will be shared and what recommendations you can expect. An assessment may lead to a diagnosis, further investigation or recommendations based on identified needs. A diagnostic outcome should not be assumed before the process is complete. [1]
Discuss psychological assessments in Lalor
Positive Sullutions offers psychological assessments including autism and ADHD, alongside children’s services and family support. We consider the child’s everyday environment and the people around them, with appropriate consent.
Contact our team on 0422 426 506 or admin@positivesullutions.com to discuss your questions, assessment suitability and next steps. You do not need to arrive with all the answers.
This article provides general information and does not replace an individual assessment or personalised advice.
Sources
[1] Autism CRC — National Guideline for the Assessment and Diagnosis of Autism
https://www.autismcrc.com.au/best-practice/sites/default/files/resources/Assessment_and_Diagnosis_Guideline.pdf
[2] Healthdirect — Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/attention-deficit-disorder-add-or-adhd
[3] AADPA — Australian ADHD Clinical Practice Guideline Chapter 2
https://adhdguideline.aadpa.com.au/diagnosis/