Child autism assessments

Collaborative, supportive, affirming

Infinity Psychology & Assessments provides autism assessments for children and teenagers which are engaging, collaborative, and focus on understanding your child’s unique qualities and characteristics. We aim to make the process as smooth and supportive as possible through transparency, clear communication about each step, and working in a way to minimise stress and anxiety for all involved.

How are our child and teen autism assessments neurodiversity-affirming?

We recognise autism as a natural variation of the human brain (‘neurotype’) – not a defect or disorder to be ‘cured’. This means we:

  • focus on understanding your child’s characteristics including their communication style, any sensory processing differences, areas of interest, and preferences around routines and change

  • explore your child’s strengths and support needs, and link these to useful recommendations and strategies

  • recognise that even children and teens can ‘mask’ and socially adapt, so they may have been previously overlooked due to outdated ideas about autism

  • respect self-knowledge and lived experience as meaningful data in the assessment process, particularly for teenagers who can discuss their inner experiences

  • avoid language that is over-pathologising and outdated

Our approach to assessing children and teens involves the Monteiro Interview Guidelines for Diagnosing the Autism Spectrum (MIGDAS-2). With primary-aged children, this typically involves a session of play, sensory activities, and discussion that is child-led. For older children and teenagers, this session is often an interview about their experiences to better understand their social communication style, relationships with others, interests, and sensory profile. We also consider other sources of information including information from parents, caregivers, or teachers, standardised psychological measures, and any other documentation you may have (such as from other health professionals supporting your child).

The assessment process is transparent and collaborative. We explain what each part of the process will involve, invite you to ask questions, and accommodate any sensory, communication, or pacing needs. Some examples of how this might look in practice:

  • Turning off overhead lights or lowering window blinds, if requested

  • Using white noise or background music

  • Providing regular breaks, and allowing time for a drink or snack

  • Having no expectations about using eye contact if this causes discomfort

  • Offering fidget toys for sensory regulation (you’re welcome to bring your own, too!)

What to Expect in a Child Autism Assessment

Parents/caregivers (and teenage clients, if applicable) will meet with the psychologist who will discuss your reasons for seeking an assessment, gather background and developmental information, and form a plan with you in order to best address your questions.

Intake Session

Typically, 2 assessment sessions are arranged: a play or interview session (MIGDAS-2) and a cognitive testing session (to explore thinking, reasoning, and capacity for learning).

Assessment Session(s)

Outside of the sessions with the psychologist, parents/caregivers and teenage clients will be asked to complete digital questionnaires, to gather further information about possible autistic traits and characteristics, as well as other relevant information (e.g., day-to-day functioning). The psychologist may also wish to speak with other support people (e.g., teacher, allied health professionals) to gather additional information.

Questionnaires & Other Information

A few weeks after the final assessment session, parents/caregivers (and teenage clients, if applicable) will meet with the psychologist to discuss the outcomes of the assessment, any diagnoses made, and recommendations and strategies. This session also provides an opportunity to ask questions and for reflection on any outcomes. A comprehensive written report is provided.

Feedback Session & Report

Common Questions about Child Autism Assessments

Do I need a referral for a child autism assessment?

1

No, a referral is not necessary to seek an autism assessment. However, if you are already seeing a paediatrician or psychiatrist, they may be able to provide a ‘Complex Neurodevelopmental Disorder’ (CND) referral (previously known as ‘Helping Children with Autism’), which grants access to Medicare rebates to cover a portion of the assessment fee.

Note: GPs are not able to provide referrals for autism assessments. Mental Health Care Plans may not be used for assessments, only counselling sessions.

An assessment aims to provide understanding and recommendations about your child’s development, strengths, challenges, and needs. It should still be useful even if a diagnosis if ruled out. Your psychologist can explore alternative explanations with you, and adjust the assessment process to explore other areas if necessary.

What if my child is not autistic or there is no diagnosis?

2

Yes. We can combine multiple queries into the one assessment to address other neurodivergent experiences such as ADHD, learning differences (e.g., dyslexia or dyscalculia), and other areas. The admin team and your psychologist will discuss this with you, and together we will form an assessment plan to address your needs. Typically, combining several queries into the one assessment is more efficient for both time and cost.

Can the assessment also explore ADHD, learning difficulties, or other issues?

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Can you help with accommodations or next steps after the assessment is over?

4

Yes. We can provide guidance for accommodations and adjustments at school (e.g., Individual Learning Plan, VCE exam special consideration), therapy supports, recommendations for NDIS, and other neuroaffirming resources. Extensive recommendations and resources are typically provided in the written report and discussed during your feedback session.

Can you provide an assessment via telehealth?

5

For primary-aged children, the MIGDAS-2 session and cognitive testing session are held in person as the psychologist needs to directly interact with your child due to the types of activities conducted. For teenagers, we can conduct the MIGDAS-2 interview via telehealth if requested. The intake and feedback sessions can also be conducted via telehealth for convenience.

Interested in booking an assessment for your child or teen?

Our friendly and knowledgeable admin team are happy to discuss any further questions, or assist with booking an autism assessment for your child or teenager.