Looking for Child ASD Assessment in Adelaide?
At Adelaide Clinical Psychology, we understand how important it is to find thorough and experienced support for ASD assessments in Adelaide. Our supportive and experienced team is dedicated to providing comprehensive Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) assessments, ensuring that each child receives the best possible care.
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Our assessment process is thoughtfully designed to understand each child’s strengths, challenges, and needs. It begins with an initial intake call, during which we listen and learn about the child’s experiences.
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Next, we schedule an online clinical interview with parents to gather valuable insights and a full picture of the child’s needs. We then meet your child at our practice and conduct detailed psychometric evaluations and child-specific testing to deepen our understanding.
Once the assessments are complete, we provide a comprehensive report that outlines our findings clearly and thoroughly. To ensure you feel fully supported, we conclude the process with a feedback session to discuss results, answer questions, and explore the next steps. We aim to provide a professional, compassionate, and holistic approach that prioritises the child’s well-being and development.
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With warm and thoughtful support, we are dedicated to ensuring each child receives the support and guidance they need to thrive.
Understanding Autism (ASD) in Children
​​Before seeking an ASD assessment in Adelaide, it helps to understand what Autism Spectrum Disorder means for your child. ASD is a developmental condition that influences how children communicate, interact with others, and understand the world around them. The term “spectrum” reflects the wide range of characteristics and levels of support needs that can vary from one child to another.
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Often diagnosed in early childhood, ASD presents different challenges and strengths for each individual. While the exact cause of ASD is not yet fully understood, research indicates that it likely stems from a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
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Every child with Autism (ASD) is unique, with their strengths, challenges, and ways of experiencing the world. These traits may include:
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Social Communication
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Difficulty understanding nonverbal cues like facial expressions or body language.
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Challenges with starting or maintaining conversations.
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Differences in eye contact during interactions may be limited.
Repetitive Behaviours and Routines
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Repeating specific movements, such as hand-flapping or rocking, is a form of self-regulation or expression.
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A strong preference for routines can make unexpected changes or transitions difficult.
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Intense focus or deep interest in specific topics or activities.
Sensory Sensitivities
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Heightened sensitivity or reduced sensitivity to sensory input, such as sounds, lights, textures, or smells.
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Reacting strongly to sensory environments that may feel overwhelming or uncomfortable.
Developmental Differences
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Communication variations include speaking later than peers or using alternative ways to express themselves.
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Exceptional abilities in specific areas, such as memory, numbers, or patterns, which can be remarkable in some children.
These characteristics can appear in different ways and varying degrees for each individual, and they may evolve as a child grows and develops. A thorough assessment by a trained professional is essential to accurately identify and understand these traits. Our kind and knowledgeable team is committed to providing comprehensive evaluations that address a child's challenges, highlight their strengths, and uncover their learning style. We are here to support and guide each child with care, expertise, and a personalised approach.
Why We Recommend an Early ASD Assessment
Families seeking an ASD diagnosis in Adelaide often ask when the right time is to assess. We recommend testing from 6 years old. Identifying the signs of ASD early empowers families and professionals to create personalised strategies that nurture a child’s development while building on their strengths. By introducing interventions during critical stages of growth, children can make meaningful progress in communication, social interactions, and overall quality of life.
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A thorough assessment helps uncover each child’s specific needs, allowing for the development of realistic goals and strategies tailored to their abilities. This process also fosters an inclusive environment where children feel supported and have opportunities to thrive. We understand that ASD is a key focus in developmental assessments, it’s just as important to identify other potential learning challenges that may impact a child’s growth.
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We are experienced in assessing and addressing conditions such as Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Specific Learning Disorders (e.g., Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia). By identifying these challenges early, we can implement tailored interventions that help build confidence and essential skills. Our comprehensive approach ensures we meet the developmental needs of every child, empowering them to succeed both in and outside the classroom.
Understanding Our Comprehensive Assessment Process
At Adelaide Clinical Psychology, we have conducted hundreds of assessments for children with ASD. Our comprehensive assessment process begins with an online clinical interview with parents to gather relevant history. This is followed by extensive testing and assessments at our clinic, utilising standardised tests that evaluate communication skills, social interaction, and sensory processing.
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We conclude with an online feedback session to present findings, recommendations, and a detailed written report. This multi-faceted approach provides a thorough understanding of the child's strengths and needs, helping identify specific areas where support or intervention may be required.
STEP 1: INTAKE CALL
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Our ASD assessment process begins with a welcoming phone call from our Client Concierge, Candy Elliot. With a background in Psychotherapy, Candy is here to guide you through the process, answer any questions, and address any concerns. This initial conversation is designed to ensure the assessment is the right fit for the child and to create a supportive foundation for a comfortable experience.
INTAKE CALL
STEP 2: ONLINE CLINICAL INTERVIEW WITH PARENTS
We conduct a detailed, one-on-one interview between parents and one of our experienced psychologists. This session is designed to gather essential information about your child, ensuring we understand their needs and strengths. During the interview, we’ll discuss key areas such as:
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Your child’s developmental history, including milestones and early behaviours.
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Any current behavioural challenges and how they interact socially
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Review the child's developmental history, including Mum’s pregnancy, newborn temperament, milestones, family background, social skills, hobbies, interests, and overall physical and mental health.​​​
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Examine any existing medical, psychological, or school reports (if applicable).
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Medical and psychological history that may inform their current experiences.
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Identify academic challenges or learning difficulties the child may be experiencing.
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Answer any questions or concerns the parents may have about the assessment process.
This in-depth conversation helps us create a comprehensive understanding of your child. By exploring their strengths, behaviours, and potential challenges, we lay the groundwork for an accurate and meaningful assessment.
CLINICAL INTERVIEW
STEP 3: PSYCHOMETRIC AND CHILD TESTING
This is the core phase of the ASD assessment process, where our psychologists explore your child’s cognitive, emotional, and behavioural profile using gold-standard testing methods. During two structured sessions, our experienced psychologists use best-practice methods to observe and evaluate key areas of development. These include:
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Cognitive Ability Testing: This assessment includes verbal comprehension, fluid reasoning, visual-spatial reasoning, working memory, and processing speed.
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Executive Function Assessment: This test focuses on evaluating impulse control, cognitive flexibility, working memory, processing speed, and planning abilities.
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Academic Performance Testing: Assesses a child in reading, writing, and mathematics skills.
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Social and Emotional Functioning Questionnaires: Understanding behavioural and emotional patterns in different settings
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Teachers and parents (when applicable): will also complete online screening tools to provide additional context about the child’s focus and attention-related behaviours.
This structured approach ensures all relevant factors are carefully considered, allowing us to provide a thorough and well-rounded understanding to guide any next steps. We are here to support you and your child at every stage.
CHILD TESTING
STEP 4: ANALYSIS & COMPREHENSIVE REPORT
Once testing is completed, our Psychologist will carefully review and analyse the data to identify patterns, behaviours, and traits associated with Autism. This involves examining test results, observations, and additional input from parents or teachers.
A clear, detailed report summarising the findings is then created. It includes tailored, actionable recommendations such as educational accommodations, therapy options for emotional and behavioural challenges or lifestyle adjustments to enhance focus and overall well-being.
This comprehensive report addresses your child’s challenges, providing practical solutions and guidance for parents, caregivers, and schools. It acts as a roadmap to help your child thrive academically, socially, and emotionally, offering clarity and actionable next steps for their journey.
ANAlYSIS & REPORT
STEP 5: FEEDBACK SESSION
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The final step is an online feedback session with a psychologist designed to provide clarity, guidance, and support. Here’s what you can expect:
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A thorough review of the assessment findings, with a clear and accessible explanation of the diagnosis to ensure understanding.
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Practical, personalised recommendations tailored to support your child’s needs at home, in school, and therapy settings.
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Dedicated time to ask questions about the report, diagnosis, or next steps, helping you feel informed and confident moving forward.
After the session, you’ll receive a comprehensive report summarising your child’s results and personalised recommendations. This document supports your child's journey beyond diagnosis, serving as a reference for schools, therapists, and healthcare providers.
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FEEDBACK SESSION
Supporting Your Family Through the Autism Assessment Journey
Our compassionate team in Adelaide walks alongside you through every step of your child’s ASD assessment and diagnosis. From your first phone call to the final feedback session, we’ll work closely with you, ensuring you feel informed, supported, and confident at every step.
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If you’re unsure whether an assessment is the right next step, we’re here to help. Reach out with your questions, and we’ll provide the guidance and information you need to make the best decision for your child’s well-being.
Ready to Book Your Child’s ASD Assessment in Adelaide?
If you’re considering an ASD assessment or looking for a professional ASD diagnosis in Adelaide, our team is here to guide you. Reach out today to begin the journey toward clarity, confidence, and compassionate care.