Austism Assessments

Autism assessments provide a safe and structured way to explore how someone experiences the world—how they think, relate, process information, and respond to their environment.

Assessments are focused on understanding, affirming identity, and supporting meaningful participation in home, school, work, and community life.

Vector illustration of people holding hands in a circle, symbolising inclusion, connection, and supportive care. Featured on the Autism Assessments page at The Grove Psychology Practice, offering neuroaffirming autism assessments and compassionate guidance across the lifespan.

Why Seek an Autism Assessment?

An autism assessment may be helpful for:

Making sense of communication, sensory, or relational differences
Understanding how neurodivergence may be shaping a child’s emotions, behaviour, or learning
Supporting self-understanding in adolescence or adulthood
Gaining clarity around school, workplace, or social challenges
Guiding therapy or intervention supports
Assisting with NDIS access or tailored accommodations

People may come into the process with clear questions—or simply with curiosity. The assessment provides a space to explore patterns gently and respectfully.

Vector illustration of diverse, colourful silhouettes of people’s faces in a cartoon style, symbolising neurodiversity, individuality, and inclusive understanding. Featured on the Autism Assessments page at The Grove Psychology Practice, offering affirming autism assessments for children, teens, and adults.

What Does the Process Involve?

The process varies depending on age and needs, but often includes:

For Children & Adolescents:

A developmental intake and caregiver interview
Screening tools completed by caregivers and (if relevant) educators
Play-based or observational engagement with the child
Optional cognitive and adaptive functioning assessment (e.g. WISC-V, WPPSI-IV, Vineland-3)
A feedback session with caregivers
A written report that supports school, therapy, or NDIS planning

For Adults:

A clinical interview and developmental history
Standardised screening tools (e.g. RAADS-R, SRS-2)
Optional input from a support person (e.g. parent, partner, friend)
Optional cognitive or adaptive assessment (if seeking NDIS access or learning profile insight)
A feedback session
A strengths-based, affirming written report tailored to your goals

Assessments work best when tailored to individual needs. If the right pathway isn’t clear, talking it through beforehand can help clarify the next step.

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Can This Help with NDIS Access?

Yes. For both children and adults, a comprehensive autism assessment can support access to the NDIS—especially when it includes cognitive, adaptive, and functional information.

For children under 6, support may be accessed through the Early Childhood Approach without a formal diagnosis—though a report describing developmental concerns and recommended supports can still be very helpful.

If the assessment is being sought to support an NDIS application, the process and reporting can be tailored to include tools commonly required—such as the Vineland-3, a functional summary, and goal-aligned recommendations.

Approach to Assessment

All autism assessments are carried out with a neurodiversity-affirming, trauma-informed lens. This means:

Autism is understood as a valid and valuable way of being—not something to be “cured” or corrected
Deficit-based language is avoided, with a focus on relational safety and emotional dignity
Consideration is given to masking, burnout, and the impact of intersectional experiences
The assessment process is designed to be respectful, empowering, and guided by choice

Whether you're seeking answers for yourself, your child, or someone you care for, the process will be held with warmth, curiosity, and care.

Fees and Availability

Autism assessments are privately billed, with some components eligible for Medicare rebates under a Mental Health Care Plan. While sessions such as interviews, in-session observations, or feedback may be covered, the written report is not rebateable and is billed separately.

You can view the Fee Schedule for Autism assessments here.

Neurodiversity

Neurodiversity is a natural part of human variation. It describes the different ways our brains process, learn, relate, and experience the world. While every person is unique, some common patterns emerge in people with neurodivergent traits—including those who are autistic, ADHDers, or both. This resource names a few of those patterns. Not as a checklist or definition, but as a way to support recognition, understanding, and self-compassion.

The Grove Psychology Practice

4 min read

Tiles spelling out the word “Neurodiversity” arranged on top of a colourful patchwork quilt, symbolising individuality, complexity, and the richness of different minds. Featured on a blog page exploring neurodiversity through a psychological and inclusive lens.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a referral? No referral is required. You’re welcome to self-refer for an autism assessment, or to contact the practice on behalf of your child or someone you support. We’re happy to answer questions about whether an assessment feels like the right next step.

Can I claim a Medicare rebate for the assessment? Some parts of the assessment process may be eligible for a Medicare rebate if you have a current Mental Health Care Plan. This includes sessions such as interviews, observations, or feedback discussions. However, the written report—which forms an important part of the diagnostic process—is not covered by Medicare and is billed separately. If therapy is recommended following the assessment, those sessions may also be eligible for rebates depending on your referral.

Will I receive a report? Yes. Every assessment includes a clear, compassionate report outlining the findings, insights, and any relevant recommendations. Reports can be shared with schools, GPs, support services, or other professionals, depending on your needs.

Is cognitive testing included? No, cognitive testing (such as WISC or WAIS subtests) is not part of the assessments I currently offer. If learning or processing concerns come up as part of the process, I can refer you to a psychologist who provides cognitive testing where appropriate.

What if I don’t meet criteria for a diagnosis? An assessment can still be valuable even if diagnostic criteria aren’t met. Many people relate to aspects of the autistic experience and benefit from support, accommodations, or self-understanding. The goal of the assessment is to offer clarity—not to reduce anyone’s experience to a label.

How do I book or express interest? Please contact the Garden's Medical Group reception team to express interest or ask any questions. We’ll provide information about current availability, wait times, and next steps. Phone: (02) 6058 6175 Email: Level4@thegardensmedical.com.au