Have you noticed that your child has a unique way of seeing and interacting with the world?
An autism assessment provides insights into their characteristics and connects you with the right support.
What is Autism?
Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how people communicate, interact, and experience the world around them. Because it exists on a spectrum, no two individuals with autism are the same—each person has their own special strengths and challenges. While the exact cause of autism is unknown, research suggests genetic and environmental factors play a key role.
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Autism is typically identified in early childhood though it can also be identified in later years. Common signs and characteristics or traits may include:
Difficulty interpreting social cues – struggling to understand facial expressions, tone of voice, or body language
Communication difficulties – finding it hard to engage in small talk and back and forth conversation with others.
Difficulty adapting to change – strong preference for routines and predictability
Sensory sensitivities – a heightened response to sound and texture.
Repetitive Behaviours and Restricted Interests - engaging in repetitive movements and intense focus on specific topics or hobbies.
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Autism often coexists with other conditions, including:
Anxiety
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Specific Learning Disorders (SLD)
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A formal autism diagnosis provides clarity and direction. It helps individuals and families:
Access the right support - like therapies, social skills training or sensory support
Improve communication and relationships through strategies that reduce misunderstanding and promote connections
Access school or workplace resources and special considerations for better support
Find community and support - a space where your child feels understood and advocated for.
Autism assessments for children (from 6+)
Just as every child is unique, so are their assessment needs.
Our autism assessments provide clarity on behaviours, communication styles, and developmental challenges to better understand and support your child.
In some cases, autism may co-exist with other conditions such as ADHD or learning difficulties, requiring a broader evaluation. Following an initial consultation, we determine the most appropriate approach - whether it’s a standalone autism assessment or a combined assessment that incorporates ADHD or psychoeducational testing.
What’s involved in the process of an Autism Assessment?
Standard Child Autism Assessments
Please note: The structure of your assessment may be adjusted based on individual requirements.
The Booking Process
Contact Aperture Psychology Clinic
Brief consultation
Tailored quote provided
Appointment booked (upon receipt of deposit)
The Autism Assessment
Questionnaire administration (parent & teacher, self)
Parent only interview (1-2 hours)
Child-only assessment (2-4 hours)
Teacher consultation (via phone interview or standard questionnaire if required)
Comprehensive Report
Feedback session
Detailed written report
Standard Child Combined ADHD & Autism Assessments
Please note: The structure of your assessment may be adjusted based on individual requirements.
The Booking Process
Contact Aperture Psychology Clinic
Brief consultation
Tailored quote provided
Appointment booked (upon receipt of deposit)
The Combined Assessment
Questionnaire administration (parent & teacher, self)
Parent only interview (3 hours)
Child-only assessment (3-5 hours)
Teacher consultation (via phone interview or standard questionnaire if required)
Comprehensive Report
Feedback session
Detailed written report
Our Tools & Methods for Autism Assessments
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Specialised assessment tools
We follow national guidelines for autism evaluations to ensure accurate results.
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Standardised rating scales and questionnaires
Used to gather structured information on symptoms from multiple perspectives.
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Validated diagnostic interviews
In-depth discussions with individuals, families and other relevant professionals to assess behaviour and align with the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) Autism guidelines.
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Observational assessment
Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition - ADOS-2.
A structured, play-based assessment that helps evaluate social communication skills, repetitive behaviours, and interaction styles in real time.
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Collateral information gathering
We collect insights from school reports, medical records, and interviews with family members and teachers to build a well-rounded understanding of the individual's traits and their impact on daily life.
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Objective cognitive assessments
Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC) or Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) and other validated cognitive tests.
These may include verbal tasks, pen-and-paper exercises, computer-based tests, and puzzle-solving activities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Autism Assessments
What are you wondering?
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Autism assessments are comprehensive evaluations that help identify autism spectrum disorder (ASD). They include interviews, behavioral observations, and standardised tests to understand strengths, challenges, and support needs, guiding effective care, education, and interventions.
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No, the approaches don’t differ. However, we use age-appropriate testing:
Parent/observer report for children and younger adolescents
Self-report 16+
WAIS for over 16
WISC for under 16
We use different modules of the ADOS-2 depending on age.
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We provide families with a list of resources that they can use to personally connect with external services that best suit their needs.
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Yes. We provide autism assessments for adults as well as children 6+ years of age, using gold-standard tools and clinical interviews. The type of assessment and process may vary depending on age and presenting concerns. We recommend discussion with your GP or other health professional prior to requesting an assessment and obtaining a referral where possible. Referrals can validate the need for an assessment and provide us with very helpful information about your situation. A referral for an autism assessment from a psychiatrist or paediatrician for <25 year olds will enable you to claim a Medicare rebate.
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Autism assessments involve a more detailed exploration of developmental history, social communication, sensory processing, and behavioural patterns. We use standardised tools such as the ADI-R and ADOS, as well as clinical judgement.
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Yes. If a diagnosis is made, the report can be used to support NDIS applications and other formal supports.
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Parents must accompany children to the appointment to assist with making the child comfortable, and remain close by and available during the assessment. However, the assessment will be with the child alone as having a parent present can be quite distracting. Similarly, adults may wish to bring someone for the interview portion of the assessment to provide additional information, but not necessary as informants can be contacted via phone later, and testing occurs alone. Bringing a support person to the feedback session can be helpful if feeling anxious about the outcomes.
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Every situation is different and will be treated accordingly. We will discuss this with you when booking your assessment. As a guideline, on average:
Parent interviews take approximately 2 hours each.
Child testing takes approximately 3-4 hours.
Adult interviews and testing take approximately 5 hours.
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If you receive a diagnosis, we’ll talk you through what it means and what your options are. You may choose to begin therapy here with one of our clinicians, or we can connect you with trusted referral partners if a different type of support is more appropriate. We’ll also provide information about helpful resources, including advocacy organisations and support groups, so you feel informed and supported beyond the assessment process.
Got more questions about assessments?
View individual pages for FAQs on ADHD assessments, Psychoeducational assessments, and assessments in general, or give our friendly team a call - we are always happy to assist.
