Autism Assessment

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Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a pervasive developmental disorder characterised by impairments in social communication, as well as restricted or repetitive patterns of behaviour, interests and activities. There are also often significant difficulties in the processing of sensory information. These complex and unique behaviours can vary in their manifestation but are representative of the particular diagnostic criteria.

ASD is a lifelong condition. The cause of ASD is currently not known but there is evidence to suggest that genetics play an important role in the cause of ASD. The behaviours and difficulties associated with ASD are evident very early in an individual’s development but the stage at which functional impairment becomes obvious can vary. No two individuals with ASD are the same. The behaviours associated with ASD can vary within individuals as they grow and develop and respond to various situations and environments in their daily lives.

Does my child need an assessment?

The following signs could be indicators of ASD which may impact your child’s behaviour and development. No single indicator typically signals ASD, instead a child would present with a number of the following indicators.

Communication:

  • Lack of early gestures such as waving and pointing
  • Lack of response to own name/selective hearing (e.g. responding to environmental sounds but often ignoring speech)
  • Regression in speech and language (e.g. loss of previously used words)
  • Speech absent at 18 months and no use of phrases by 24 months
  • Unusual language patterns (e.g. repetitive speech or jargon)
  • Lack of reciprocal communication

Behaviour:

  • Unusual/repetitive patterns of behaviours (e.g. flapping hands, spinning, toe walking)
  • Specific and intense interests
  • Unexplained tantrums
  • Significant difficulties coping with change
  • Ritualised patterns of behaviour

Social / Play:

  • Lack of reciprocal smile
  • Lack of interest in others/sharing interest with others
  • Often seeming to be in their ‘own world’ or aloof
  • Preference to playing alone/limited social play
  • Unusual patterns of behaviour in play (e.g. lining up objects, categorising)
  • Play is limited to certain toys or themes
  • Lack of imaginary play

Sensory:

  • Over or under reaction to sounds (e.g. afraid of everyday sounds/not responding to own name)
  • Preoccupation with moving or spinning objects
  • Aversion to certain textures or exploring environment through touch
  • Over/under reaction to pain
  • Use of peripheral vision to look at objects/observing or playing with toys on floor/table level
  • Mouthing objects or clothing
What is an Autism Spectrum Disorder Assessment?

A formal ASD assessment is conducted by our clinical psychologist (single) or by our multidisciplinary specialist team (clinical psychologist, occupational therapist and speech and language therapist). 

Assessment involves using standardised assessment tools, interactions with and observations of the child, as well as gathering information from all relevant and available sources. This information provides insight into the child’s strengths and difficulties in areas of social communication, as well as any restricted and repetitive behaviours, interests or activities. The data is then carefully considered in light of the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual – Fifth Edition (DSM-5).

Assessment Approaches

Initial Parent consultation:

The initial consultation is with one of our clinical psychologists. Please note this consultation does not include the child. The clinical psychologist will ask you questions about your family, your child’s history, strengths and ares of concern.  Please bring video footage of your child interacting with peers, playing and demonstrating their interests. The clinical psychologist will discuss your assessment options and answer any questions about the assessment process.

Assessment options 

A Single ASD assessment is conducted by a clinical psychologist. The assessment is over two sessions. The first session is with the parents too. The first assessment session takes up to one hour. During this session the clinician performs the parent/care giver interview and gathers background information. The second session also takes up to one hour. During this session the clinician observes the child during play. A feedback session is then scheduled with the parent/care givers. During this session parents/care givers receive feedback from the assessment and discuss the results and recommendations. A full, comprehensive report is then completed and provided to the family.

A Team ASD assessment is booked over four sessions. The clinical psychologist’s component is identical to the single ASD assessment, and is conducted over two sessions, each around 1 hour. A speech and language therapist will conduct one further session to review speech and language skills, and an occupational therapist will conduct one independent session to look at sensory processing and motor skills. The team then meets to discuss their findings, and create a comprehensive report, including results and recommendations. A feedback session is then scheduled with the parent/care giver, and assessing team of therapists, and takes approximately 30 minutes. During this session parents/care givers will receive feedback from the assessment and discuss the results and recommendations.

Why is a diagnosis important?

Receiving a diagnosis of ASD provides a profile of an individual’s strengths and areas of development, and helps individuals and their families understand why they may experience certain difficulties or behaviours. A diagnosis can also allow access to specific support and therapeutic services.