Adult assessment in Melbourne
Adult autism (ASD) assessment.
A paced, neurodivergent-affirming process for adults exploring masking, sensory experiences, communication patterns, burnout or support needs.
Appointments may be available in Essendon North, Footscray and by telehealth across Victoria. Sessions may be provided in English, Cantonese or Mandarin.
What assessment explores
Understanding patterns that may have been missed.
Many adults consider assessment after years of feeling different, misunderstood, overextended or tired from the effort of masking.
Autism assessment may explore:
- sensory experiences, overwhelm or shutdowns
- social communication and relationship patterns
- masking, burnout and recovery needs
- strengths, identity, routines and support needs
ADHD traits can also be discussed:
- attention, time, memory and executive functioning
- the pull between routine needs and novelty-seeking
- sensory load, fatigue and recovery needs
- whether a combined AuDHD assessment may better answer your question
If both autistic and ADHD traits are central to your question, see the combined AuDHD assessment pathway.
Assessment fees
Choose the report detail you need.
Different report options are available depending on the assessment question and the level of documentation required. If you are unsure, ask about fit before booking.
Autism brief diagnostic report
From $1,350
A focused pathway with a summary document.
Comprehensive autism report
From $1,800
More detailed documentation and recommendations.
Assessment process
Understand the steps before you book.
The exact structure depends on what you want to understand and the documentation you need. Assessment usually includes clinical interview, questionnaires, background information, report preparation and feedback.
Initial consultation
Discuss your questions, relevant history and whether this assessment pathway is suitable.
Assessment measures
Complete selected questionnaires and gather relevant background information where available.
Clinical interview
Explore developmental history, masking, sensory profile, communication, relationships and functioning.
Report and feedback
Review the findings, ask questions and discuss recommendations or possible next steps.
Assessment tools
More than one measure informs the picture.
The tools selected depend on the referral question, developmental history, current functioning and individual circumstances.
MIGDAS-2
A sensory-based interview process gathering qualitative information about communication, relationships, emotions, sensory experiences and interests.
ADOS-2
A semi-structured, standardised observation of communication, social interaction and restricted or repetitive behaviours.
CAT-Q
A self-report questionnaire about social camouflaging experiences such as masking, compensation and assimilation.
AQ
A self-report measure gathering information about autistic traits. It is not diagnostic when used alone.
RAADS-R
A self-report measure that may contribute information about adult autistic traits within a broader assessment.
SRS-2
A rating scale that may provide information about patterns of social communication and interaction.
No single interview, observation, questionnaire or score determines a diagnosis. Findings are interpreted alongside clinical interviews, developmental history, current functioning, relevant background information, differential considerations and collateral information where available.
Realistic expectations
Clear information, realistic limits.
Assessment may help with:
- understanding autistic traits, ADHD traits or both
- identifying strengths, stressors and support needs
- planning therapy, study, workplace or everyday supports
- supporting discussions with other providers or services
Assessment does not guarantee:
- a particular diagnosis or assessment outcome
- NDIS access or funding approval
- a workplace, study, insurance or service decision
- medical treatment or medication access
Helpful reading
Read about the questions behind assessment.
Common questions
Questions before an autism assessment.
Do you assess autism in adults?
Yes. Breathe-n-Smile Psychology offers adult autism assessment, with attention to masking, sensory experiences, communication patterns, relationships, daily functioning and support needs.
What if I also notice ADHD traits?
ADHD traits can be discussed during an autism assessment. Where both sets of traits are central to the question, a combined AuDHD assessment may be a better fit.
Do I need childhood documents?
Childhood information can be helpful, but not everyone has access to old reports or family input. Assessment can usually begin with the information available.
Can assessment guarantee NDIS access?
No. A report may provide useful clinical information, but NDIS access and funding decisions are made by the relevant agency and depend on their criteria.
Are assessments 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 assessment, ADHD assessment or a combined AuDHD assessment is the more useful starting point, you can ask a brief question first.
Send a brief enquiry
Please share practical details only, such as whether you are asking about an adult autism assessment.
Prefer another option?
0431 828 769 · Email reception