Empowering Hills Autism Assessment Services Community

Consultation/Screening Appointment:

1. Our Introductory Screening Service is designed to provide families with early insights into their child’s developmental profile, particularly where autism spectrum traits may be emerging. This service is ideal for children in the early years (typically under 6) where concerns around communication, social interaction, or behaviour have been raised.

The screening may include:

• Parent Consultation: A detailed conversation to explore developmental history and current concerns. This collaborative dialogue helps shape the direction of the assessment and ensures parents feel heard and involved.
• Play-Based Assessment: Joanne engages directly with the child in a naturalistic setting, observing communication, social engagement, play behaviours, and interaction style. This approach allows for a nuanced understanding of the child’s strengths and challenges.  The ASD-Peds maybe used as a screening tool as part of this assessment.  This is a structured, evidence-based tool designed to identify early signs of autism in young children. It supports clinical decision-making and helps determine whether further diagnostic assessment is recommended.
• Language Assessment (if required): Where communication delays or concerns are present, a brief speech and language evaluation may be included to assess expressive and receptive language skills.
• Daycare/School Consultation: May be used to gain information across settings if needed and with the permission of the parents.

This screening is not a formal diagnosis but provides valuable guidance on whether further assessment is warranted. Should formal assessment be recommended families will be guided around diagnostic pathways available (public and private) and support to progress along the most appropriate path.

Formal Diagnostic Assessment (DSM-5):

2.  For families seeking a formal assessment, our Comprehensive Autism Diagnostic Service offers a thorough, evidence-based evaluation tailored to each child’s unique developmental profile. This service is suitable for children where autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is strongly suspected or where previous screening has indicated the need for further investigation.  A referral from a paediatrician is preferred to ensure a multi-disciplinary approach that meets the National Guidelines.

The assessment includes:

• ADOS-2 Administration: The Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2) is a gold-standard, play-based assessment conducted in clinic. It typically takes around 60 minutes and provides detailed insights into social communication, interaction, and behavior.
• Diagnostic Interview: A structured telephone interview with the parent or carer, lasting approximately 90 minutes, explores developmental history, current functioning, and family context. This forms a critical part of the diagnostic process. 
• Language Assessment (if required): If not previously completed, a speech and language evaluation may be included to assess communication strengths and challenges.
• Educational Liaison: Joanne will liaise with your child’s daycare or school to gather additional observations and insights. Where appropriate, this may include a direct school visit to observe the child in their learning environment.
• Same-Day Feedback: Wherever possible, Joanne provides verbal feedback on the day of assessment to ensure families are informed and supported immediately.
• Comprehensive Diagnostic Report: A detailed written report is provided within 4 weeks, outlining findings, diagnosis (if applicable), and tailored recommendations for support and intervention.  This will include any consultation with the referring paediatrician or clinical psychologist as part of a multi-disciplinary approach.
• NDIS & Carer Support Guidance: Joanne is happy to assist families with navigating NDIS applications, Carer Allowance, and other support pathways, ensuring parents feel empowered and informed.

This service is designed to be both clinically rigorous and deeply supportive, offering families clarity, direction, and compassionate care throughout the diagnostic journey.