Autism Spectrum Diagnosis Sydney
We provide complete Autism Spectrum assessments in Sydney.
Our autism assessments are performed only by approved clinicians. Families with appropriate referral from a paediatrician or GP may also be eligible for a Medicare rebate.
On the following pages you will find information about the symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder, the testing process and information about access to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). Please browse through the tabs below and if you have any questions, email or call us to discuss your concerns.
Symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Autism Symptoms
Autism Spectrum Disorders are characterised by significant and chronic impairment in a number of different developmental areas. The main developmental domains that are affected are social interaction (especially the perception of social cues), impaired communication skills (both verbal and non-verbal) and stereotyped behaviour patterns, interests and activities.
A brief description of the different developmental areas that are commonly impaired in children with Autism Spectrum Disorders is outlined below:
SOCIAL FUNCTIONING
The most easily recognisable characteristic of autism is an impairment in reciprocal social functioning. When children with autism interact with others they show a limited ability to rely on non-verbal skills, such as eye contact, appropriate facial expression, gestures and body posture. Consequently, they struggle to form close and enduring relationships.
COMMUNICATION
Communication difficulties most often manifest as delays in language development, difficulty initiating or maintaining a conversation, idiosyncratic language use (e.g., repetition of words or phrases), and a lack of age-appropriate make-believe play.
BEHAVIOUR PATTERNS
Autism is often characterised by stereotyped behaviour patterns, interests and activities. Children with autism can be obsessive about routines, timetables or objects. They may show stereotyped and repetitive motor movements, such as flapping fingers or wrists, walking on toes or whole body movements. Children may also show extreme fascination with moving or spinning objects and can spend an excessive amount of time watching the same movement.
Course and Prognosis
Our understanding of autism has advanced significantly, even over the past decade. While there is still much to learn, a range of supports is now available to help autistic people and their families. For many people, these supports are accessed through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). Outside the NDIS, however, accessing appropriate and targeted supports can be more challenging.
Autism Diagnosis Sydney – General Information
The “gold standard” in Autism diagnosis involves the administration of two well established and researched assessment instruments, the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R) and the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS).
DEVELOPMENTAL HISTORY
A child’s developmental history is an important starting point to evaluate the presence of autism. Therefore, information gathering involves a detailed clinical interview with the parents or caregivers, most often using the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R). The interview responses are scored with the aid of a specifically designed algorithm. The ADI-R algorithm for autism is consistent with both the ICD-10 and DSM-V diagnostic criteria.
When available, additional information is obtained from other sources, such as speech pathology reports, teachers’ reports and other family members.
EVALUATION OF PRESENTING SYMPTOMS
Due to its chronic nature, children with autism present with characteristic symptoms in most circumstances. To evaluate the symptoms and to differentiate them from other disorders (e.g., intellectual disability, genetic disorders) clinicians rely on the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS).
The ADOS is the most widely used psychological test to evaluate communication, social interaction, play and imaginative skills for children and adults suspected of having autism. The ADOS contains four separate tests, differentiated by children’s and adults’ developmental and language levels. It can be administered to children with no expressive or receptive language use through to children and adults with fluent verbal skills.
Autism Diagnostic Services & Medicare
We have been providing autism assessments for almost two decades. As an independent clinic, we offer a number of benefits to families and individuals seeking professional assessment of Autism.
STANDARDISED ASSESSMENT PROCEDURES
Both Istvan and Flin have specialised training in the use of the ADOS (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule) and the ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised). The combination of these tests is the most reliable way to evaluate the symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorders and it is considered gold standard in the diagnostic process.
SHORT WAITING LIST
The waiting list for a diagnostic assessment varies from time to time. However, we are usually able to offer an appointment within 3 to 6 weeks from the date you contact us. Call us for more information about appointments on 02 8068 8661.
FAST REPORTS
Our reports are prepared within 5 to 10 working days from the date of the assessment. Our reports include a summary of developmental history, behavioural observations, structured ADI-R/ADOS interpretation, specific recommendations and referrals for treatment (if deemed necessary).
COMPETITIVE FEE STRUCTURE
We offer competitively priced autism assessments without compromising on the highest professional standards of care and expertise.
Fees outlined below
Ages 2.5-7years – $1750
Ages 7 years and up – $1850.
When an autism assessment is combined with cognitive testing (IQ) the fee is $2350 to $2450.
Reports for NDIS
Our assessment reports are regularly used to support applications for access to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). Eligibility for the scheme is determined by current NDIA guidelines, which are subject to change.
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