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ADULT ASD ASSESSMENT PROCESS

Adult ASD Assessment (Based on Autism CRC Australian Guidelines)

Our clinic offers adult autism assessments aligned with the Australian National Guidelines for Autism Spectrum Disorder developed by the Autism CRC. These evidence-based assessments ensure a comprehensive and accurate diagnostic process.

Assessment Overview

The full assessment process is structured in five key stages:

1. Initial Booking & Pre-Assessment Questionnaires

Once your assessment is booked, you (or a caregiver) will receive:

  • A series of standardised questionnaires.
  • A medical screening questionnaire for your GP.

These must be completed at least two weeks prior to your appointment.

2. Medical Review with Your GP

Before attending your assessment:

  • Visit your GP to complete a general health check related to ASD.
  • Bring the GP information sheet we provide, as not all doctors are familiar with the specific medical screenings recommended for autism.
  • Your GP may refer you for additional testing if necessary.

3. Comprehensive Functional Assessment

This involves a detailed review of your history including:

  • Medical and developmental history.
  • Educational and mental health background.
  • Family history (you may bring a family member if memory or insight is a concern).
  • Social and environmental factors.

We will then explore the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria through a structured clinical interview, examining:

  • Social difficulties: such as issues with emotional reciprocity, nonverbal communication, and relationships.
  • Repetitive behaviours and sensory sensitivities: including rigid routines, repetitive movements, intense interests, or sensory extremes.

While we may discuss potential co-occurring or differential diagnoses, further assessment may be required to confirm them (e.g., ADHD, learning difficulties, emotional disorders, etc.).

4. Diagnostic Evaluation & ADOS-II Assessment

Based on your evaluation, you may then complete an ADOS-II (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule). This will be not be performed only if it’s clearly evident that ASD can be confidently ruled out based on the prior stages.

Outcomes will fall into one of three categories:

  • ASD diagnosis ruled out: Alternative explanations and recommendations will be discussed.
  • Confirmed ASD diagnosis: A full report and therapy recommendations will be provided.
  • Inconclusive results and additional testing may be needed: More information may be needed from relatives or caregivers, or a different type of formal assessment may be required such as an IQ test. This can delay the report, so please book well in advance if you have a deadline.

5. Follow-Up, Diagnosis & Report

You will then attend a follow-up consultation (the same day if assessment all able to be completed) where:

  • Your results, diagnosis, and recommendations are explained.
  • A comprehensive report (delivered within approximately 3 weeks) will include:
    • Diagnostic conclusions
    • Identified support needs
    • Potentially co-occurring or alternative conditions (if applicable)
    • Therapy and resource recommendations

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