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.
Please note: In 2025 I will have extremely limited capacity to offer Telehealth assessments booked via Halaxy. I will open my bookings and update my availability quarterly.
If you would like to book for an Autism assessment (or Autism and ADHD assessment), I will be offering them at Inkblot Psychology Clinic in person and via telehealth. Inkblot Psychology Clinic is located in Karrinyup, WA and I will be working in clinic on Fridays. Please contact the clinic on (08) 6245 0130 or via e-mail to book.
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.
You will also be sent online questionnaires for you and a loved one to complete. The results will go to me and be included in your report.
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. Reports are typically 15-20 pages and highly detailed, summarising what we discuss in your 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 $220/hour multiplied by the number of hours that the interview and report writing takes plus the cost of the questionnaires. $220/hour is below the recommended fee of $315/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! 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 university or in your workplace. Additionally, some Psychiatrists will 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.
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.
Please let me know if you are hoping to apply to NDIS as additional information will be required at an additional cost.
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.