What is Autism?
Autism and ADHD are both neurotypes. Autism (Autism Spectrum Disorder) is a disability in which an individual has social differences either currently or as a child. An autistic person might have a strong preference for 1:1 friendships, not like making eye contact and struggle with understanding social cues. We refer to the spectrum to represent that each autistic individual’s experiences and presentations are unique. In addition to social differences, autistic people might have strong sensory preferences, a preference for sameness, passionate interests and stimming behaviours. Autism is referred to as a Neurodevelopmental disorder, meaning behaviours were present in childhood.
How does this work?
You book online via Halaxy for the assessment you are interested in. You will complete a Client Intake form, including informed consent.
For Kids/Teens- Parents/caregivers will come in for an initial interview. This can be conducted in person or via telehealth. After this, your child has an assessment with me and I will be engaging in psychometric testing as well as behavioural observations.
For Adults- You will be sent a link for an interview. You require a stable internet connection and to keep your camera on. I will ask you a bunch of questions that look at the criteria for Autism and/or ADHD. I will be typing while we talk so that I can be accurate about what goes into the report. If you need a break at any point, let me know but we typically will break for 5 minutes after one hour.
For everyone- You will also be sent online questionnaires to complete. The results will go to me and be included in your report.
3-4 weeks after the assessment(s), we will have a feedback session where you will be provided with a diagnosis (if appropriate), as well as discussion of strategies and recommendations. You will be sent your report. Reports are typically 15-20 pages and highly detailed, summarising what we discuss in interview/s, the results of the questionnaires and whether this information meets diagnostic criteria.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ADHD?
Autism and ADHD are both neurotypes. ADHD (Attention-Deficit/hyperactivity Disorder) is a disability in which an individual struggles with executive function and self-regulation. An individual with ADHD (or ADHDer) might struggle with restlessness, forgetfulness, procrastination and more. There are three types of ADHD- Inattentive, Hyperactive-Impulsive and Combined. ADHD is referred to as a Neurodevelopmental disorder, meaning behaviours were present in childhood.
It is common for women to be diagnosed after becoming mothers or during perimenopause. There is a hormonal impact on ADHD symptoms.
Why is assessment so expensive?
I hear you! The way assessment fees are worked out is $250/hour multiplied by the number of hours that the interview and report writing takes plus the cost of the questionnaires. $250/hour is below the recommended fee of $330/hour for Psychologists. I recognise that it is expensive and a privilege to be able to pay for assessment particularly in the current cost of living crisis. Unfortunately I am not able to offer reduced rates, but I can offer instalment plans.
Why come to a psychologist for ADHD assessment?
Great question! For adults, you can go straight to a Psychiatrist with a GP referral and most Psychiatrists will complete their own assessments, particularly if you are interested in medication. This could be a more cost-effective method if you are considering medication.
A psychologist diagnosis and report can be useful in applying for accommodations at school, university or in your workplace. Additionally, Paediatricians and some Psychiatrists will often request a report from a Psychologist and some may prefer to do their own assessment.
Psychologists are unable to prescribe medication.
What is AuDHD?
AuDHD refers to someone who is autistic and ADHD. Someone with AuDHD might present differently to someone with classic Autism, as rigidity and routine are not easy for ADHD folk. Until 2013 it was not possible to be diagnosed with Autism and ADHD, meaning that individuals who were diagnosed before this time might have been missed.
AuDHD folks will have social differences, as well as difficulties with executive function.
Where do you practice?
I work Australia-wide via Telehealth (adults only) and in clinic in Mount Lawley, Perth. I work part time in addition to studying.
What’s next after my assessment?
3-4 weeks after your interview(s), we will have a feedback session where you will be provided with a diagnosis (if appropriate), as well as discussion of strategies and recommendations. You will be sent your report via e-mail.
For some people, identification is what they are searching for, others might like to use the report to support them in the workplace or at university. I can tailor the report to your needs.
I do not currently offer therapy or ongoing support. This may change in future, but I would recommend either finding or continuing with a neuro-affirming Psychologist to explore your neurotype and your needs.
Not all neurodivergent people require ongoing support but it can be helpful navigating the initial diagnosis, as well as learning some systems to support yourself.