​Our autism assessment process is designed to be holistic, collaborative, and respectful of neurodiversity, with a strong focus on understanding the individual’s unique developmental profile, strengths, and support needs across environments.We adopt a neuro-affirming and strength-based framework that prioritises understanding the individual and areas of strengths. Our assessments are not solely diagnostic in nature - they aim to build a meaningful understanding of the person’s neurodevelopmental profile, communication style, sensory preferences, learning needs, and functional skills.

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With children, we use play-based and child-led assessment methods to ensure the experience is developmentally appropriate, engaging, and emotionally safe. This helps support genuine interaction and communication while reducing assessment-related anxiety.

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Key Components of the Assessment

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1. Initial Consultation - We begin with a comprehensive intake interview with parents or caregivers to gather background information regarding developmental milestones, medical history, family dynamics, current concerns, and strengths.

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2. Play-Based Clinical Sessions - These sessions are used to observe the child’s social communication, play behaviour, sensory processing, emotional regulation, and interactional style. We use developmentally appropriate tools and other standardised observational methods, tailored to the child’s needs.

 

3. Parent and Teacher Questionnaires - Families and educators complete validated online questionnaires that assess domains such as adaptive functioning, executive functioning, sensory processing, social communication, and emotional regulation.​​

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4. Collaborative Information Gathering - We work closely with key people involved in the child’s life, including:

• Teachers and learning support staff

• Allied health professionals (e.g., speech pathologists, occupational therapists, psychologists)

• Paediatricians and medical specialists

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This multi-informant approach ensures a well-rounded understanding of how the child functions across home, school, and community environments.

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Functional Capacity Assessment (NDIS requirements)
Where relevant, we conduct a functional capacity assessment to support NDIS applications or plan reviews. This involves evaluating how the child's neurodevelopmental profile affects participation and independence in daily activities, and outlines both current supports and future recommendations.

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Comprehensive Reporting and Recommendations

All findings are integrated into a detailed, clearly written report that includes:

• A developmental and functional summary

• Results from standardised assessments and observations

• Contributions from educators and allied health professionals

• Diagnostic considerations (if applicable)

• Functional capacity assessment report (NDIS format, if requested)

• Tailored, practical recommendations for home, school, and community settings

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Our goal is to provide families with actionable insights and individualised support strategies that can guide therapeutic intervention, educational planning, and funding pathways.