Adult assessment in Melbourne
Autism and ADHD, considered together.
A combined AuDHD assessment can make sense when the need for structure sits alongside attention differences, novelty-seeking, overwhelm or exhaustion.
Appointments may be available in Essendon North, Footscray and by telehealth across Victoria. Sessions may be provided in English, Cantonese or Mandarin.
The combined picture
When the patterns seem to pull in different directions.
AuDHD is an informal term often used when someone relates to both autistic and ADHD traits. A person may need predictability but struggle to maintain routines, become deeply absorbed in an interest yet find planning difficult, or be sensitive to stimulation while also seeking novelty.
Autistic traits may include:
- sensory differences, social communication patterns or a need for recovery after interaction
- preference for predictability, depth of interest or familiar routines
- masking, shutdowns or burnout
ADHD traits may include:
- attention, memory, time or task-initiation differences
- impulsivity, restlessness or novelty-seeking
- difficulty keeping up with everyday demands despite effort
The overlap can be missed when:
- one set of traits obscures the other
- coping strategies work in one setting but not another
- a previous label or stereotype does not capture the full developmental picture
Autism and ADHD commonly co-occur. A 2019 systematic review and meta-analysis estimated ADHD in 28% of people with autism, while noting that rates differ across studies and settings. A combined assessment looks at the whole pattern rather than assuming one explanation fits everything. Read the review abstract.
Assessment fees
Clear fees before you decide.
The combined report option is for an assessment that considers both autistic and ADHD traits where clinically appropriate. Ask about fit before booking if you are unsure whether autism, ADHD or AuDHD assessment is the right pathway.
Comprehensive AuDHD report
From $2,100
A combined ADHD and autism assessment report, with findings and practical recommendations where relevant.
Assessment process
Understand the steps before you book.
The exact structure depends on your assessment questions and the information available. It usually includes interview, questionnaires, developmental and everyday-functioning information, report preparation and feedback.
Initial consultation
Discuss the questions you want answered and whether a combined pathway fits.
Measures and history
Complete selected questionnaires and gather available background information.
Clinical interview
Explore development, attention, sensory experiences, communication, daily life and coping.
Report and feedback
Review findings, ask questions and discuss practical next steps.
Assessment approach
More than one source informs the picture.
A combined assessment does not add scores together. Information is considered in context, including development, current functioning, strengths, support needs and other possible explanations.
No single interview, questionnaire or score determines a diagnosis.
DIVA-5
A structured interview exploring ADHD experiences across childhood and adulthood.
MIGDAS-2
An interview process that can gather qualitative information about autistic experiences.
Rating scales
Selected measures can add information about attention, executive functioning and autistic traits.
Context and collateral
Available developmental information and everyday examples can help make sense of the pattern.
Common questions
Questions before an AuDHD assessment.
What is AuDHD?
AuDHD is an informal term often used when someone relates to both autistic and ADHD traits. A combined assessment considers whether either or both sets of traits are clinically relevant.
Why can AuDHD be missed?
Autistic and ADHD traits can look different from one setting to another. Coping strategies, masking, a previous diagnosis or an incomplete stereotype of either condition can make the overall pattern less obvious.
Do I need childhood documents?
Childhood information can be helpful, but not everyone has old reports or family input. Assessment can usually begin with the information available.
Can assessment guarantee NDIS access or medication?
No. A report may provide useful clinical information, but NDIS decisions are made by the relevant agency and medication requires medical review.
Are sessions available in Cantonese or Mandarin?
Sessions may be available in English, Cantonese or Mandarin, depending on suitability and appointment availability.
A practical first step
Ask about fit before you book.
If you are unsure whether autism, ADHD or a combined AuDHD assessment is the right starting point, reception can help with a brief administrative question about the available pathways.