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Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder characterised by difficulties with social-communication and interaction, restricted/repetitive interests and behaviours, and sensory sensitivities. 

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Common features include:

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• Delayed or unusual speech

• Unusual/reduced non-verbal communication

• Reduced interest in peers/having friends

• Difficulty navigating social interactions

• Lack of social reciprocity e.g., one-sided conversations

• Insisting on sameness/difficulty coping with change 

• Odd/intense interests e.g., mobile phone plans

• Unusual/repetitive mannerisms e.g., hand flapping

• Stereotyped play e.g., lining up objects

• Lack of imaginative/pretend play

• Echoing others' speech/things heard e.g., "doors closing, please stand clear"

• Compulsive/ritualistic behaviour e.g., only eating white foods  

• Sensory seeking behaviours e.g., mouthing objects

• Sensory sensitivities e.g., loud noise, bright lights

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What is Autism

WHAT WE OFFER

At our clinic, we offer comprehensive ASD assessments for children aged 3-13. The main assessment instruments used are the ADOS-2, ADI-R, and SRS-2. Use of the ADOS-2 and ADI-R in combination are considered the gold standard approach for ASD testing.

PURPOSE OF Autism TESTING

Autism Testing has the potential to:

• Obtain diagnostic clarity as to whether a child/teen has ASD and make better sense of their strengths/challenges

• Help determine what interventions/supports may be helpful in supporting the young person reach their potential

• Assist with accessing extra supports at school e.g. classroom accomodations and special exam provisions etc

• Help with accessing government funding e.g. NDIS funding, Centrelink Carer’s Allowance

• Evaluate intervention progress

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An Autism Assessment typically involves four stages: 

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What is involved