Autism Assessment
Psychological assessment for autism involves a structured process of gathering information about developmental history, behaviour, sensory responses, thinking patterns, and social communication. It is designed to support understanding and clinical decision-making, not to pre-determine any outcome.
Why People Seek Autism Assessment
Individuals and their families may consider autism assessment for many reasons, including:
Questions about lifelong social or communication differences
A pattern of feeling “different” that has not previously been assessed
Concerns about executive functioning, sensory responses, or social interaction
A need to clarify strengths and support needs
Referrals from a general practitioner, specialist, or allied health professional
Some people seek assessment later in adolescence or adulthood, particularly if earlier differences were overlooked or attributed to other factors.
Common Presentations We Assess
Autism can present in many ways, and patterns vary across individuals. Common presentations we see include:
Females and gender-diverse individuals with subtle social masking, where coping mechanisms may have concealed differences in social communication in childhood
Older adolescents and adults who have navigated life milestones but experience ongoing challenges in social interaction, sensory processing, or identifying differences in thinking or behaviour
These descriptions reflect patterns clinicians may observe, not requirements for assessment or diagnosis.
Assessment Process Overview
Insightful Minds’ autism assessments may include the following elements:
Initial consultation to clarify referral reasons, history, and current questions
Structured interviews and questionnaires with the individual, and when appropriate with family or significant others
Use of established, evidence-based assessment tools, such as the Monteiro Interview Guidelines for Diagnosing the Autism Spectrum – Second Edition (MIGDAS-2), which guides qualitative information gathering across sensory, behavioural, and communication domains
Additional measures, such as the Adaptive Behaviour Assessment System (ABAS) to describe everyday functioning
The assessment process is discussed collaboratively before it begins and adjusted based on individual needs.
What’s the MIGDAS-2?
The MIGDAS-2 is one of the qualitative frameworks used during autism assessment. It supports clinicians in gathering descriptive information about how a person relates to the world, with an emphasis on sensory interests and lived experience. This tool is used alongside clinical judgment and other standardised information to build a comprehensive understanding of strengths and differences, not to replace professional evaluation.
We use the MIGDAS-2 as our primary assessment tool because it aligns with the presentation of many adolescents and adults we work with, particularly those who have learned to mask or adapt over time. It is evidence-based and supports a conversational assessment approach that can help individuals understand the assessment process as it occurs, contributing to a neuroaffirming experience. We do not use ADOS or ADI-R as part of our standard process.
Reports and Feedback
Where appropriate, a written assessment report may be provided that summarises information gathered and describes observed patterns relevant to the referral question. A feedback session is provided to explain findings and answer questions. This information is intended to support ongoing planning with other health professionals or services if required.
Assessment results are discussed clearly and respectfully, and any next steps are considered collaboratively.
Practical Considerations
Assessment processes, timeframes, and fees vary depending on individual needs and the scope of assessment. These are discussed prior to commencing so that decisions are informed and expectations are clear.
Cost
This cost of an ADHD and autism assessment is $2850. In order to make our assessment more accessible to everyone, we offer an assessment only cost. That is, at the completion of testing you can decide if you require a formal report, for such purposes of NDIS, and purchase this at an extra cost of $800.
Are autism assessments covered by Medicare?
If you or your child is 25 years old or younger, you may be eligible for Medicare rebates that help cover part of the cost of autism assessments. Under the Medicare Neurodevelopmental Scheme, you can receive rebates for up to four sessions with a psychologist for assessment. Referrals need to be from a psychiatrist or paediatrician. It’s also a good idea to check if your private health insurance extras cover can help with the cost of autism assessments.
Is this assessment suitable for an application for the NDIS?
Our assessments can form one part of an NDIS application. Having a formal diagnosis of autism is certainly a good place to start.
Questions and Next Steps
If you have questions about whether an autism assessment may be appropriate for you or your family member, or if you would like more information about how the process works, please contact the practice to speak with a clinician. We are happy to provide information to help you decide whether to proceed.
Autism Assessment FAQs:
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Talking too little or too much, with a preference to talk about a favourite topic or special interest
Speech can have a limited variation in tone and use unusual expressions. Some will describe it as ‘monotone’ or having a subtle accent
Finding it difficult to navigate ‘small talk’
Difficulty reading other’s body language and facial expressions. This means social cues are often missed or misinterpreted
Less awareness of socially expected behaviour. This can come across as being ‘blunt’ or even rude.
Feeling overwhelmed by social situations and needing time alone, often lead to ‘meltdowns’.
Having no or few friends or struggling to retain friendships
Having unusually intense interests
Having a strong need to follow rules and routines, experiencing distress when these change
Being over or under sensitive to sensory stimuli (e.g. textures, sounds, smells, taste). This might look like requirements like foods to be separated, clothes to be a certain way or seeking certain texture
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Best practice guidelines advise that for a child, a diagnosis will need to come from a Paediatrician, Clinical Psychologist or multi-disciplinary allied team. For an adult, it is a Clinical Psychologist, Psychiatrist or multidisciplinary allied health team.
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Because autism and ADHD commonly co-occur, we typically assess both of these conditions together. However, all of our assessments are guided by each individual’s needs and goals for assessment.
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Typically we will not administer a cognitive test while assessing for autism, though in some cases this is indicated. If an cognitive assessment is required, please discuss this with the assessing psychologist.
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There is no specific preparation required and no expectation to present yourself in any particular way. You may find it helpful to reflect on lifelong patterns and what prompted you to seek assessment. If available, you are welcome to bring relevant school reports, medical or health professional reports, or developmental information, and to complete any intake forms prior to the appointment. These steps are optional, and the assessment focuses on understanding your lived experience rather than testing or evaluation.
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For some people, assessment brings validation and clarity; for others, it raises new questions. There is no “right” emotional response. Clinicians aim to support understanding in a way that is affirming and respectful of your identity.
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There is no obligation to proceed. Asking questions or exploring options does not commit you to an assessment, and you are welcome to take time to decide what feels right for you.
