Autism Spectrum Disorder Assessments
At Steps & Stones Psychology, we offer comprehensive assessments to help identify Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in children. Early identification of ASD can play a crucial role in helping children receive the right support to thrive in their daily lives, education, and social interactions.
We provide two types of ASD assessments to suit the unique needs of each child: a single diagnostic assessment conducted by our psychologist or a dual diagnostic assessment where we collaborate with a speech pathologist for a more in-depth evaluation. Both assessments aim to deliver an accurate and personalised understanding of your child’s developmental profile.
Our ASD Assessment Options
Single Diagnostic Assessment
Our single diagnostic assessment is conducted by a registered psychologist, focusing on key areas such as social skills, communication, behaviour, and cognitive functioning. This assessment aims to understand whether your child meets the diagnostic criteria for ASD, offering tailored insights and recommendations to support their development.
Dual Diagnostic Assessment
The dual diagnostic assessment involves a collaborative approach between our psychologist and a qualified speech pathologist. This option is especially valuable when there are concerns about communication, language development, or social interaction—common challenges for children on the autism spectrum. Together, we ensure a thorough evaluation, combining our expertise to provide a well-rounded perspective on your child’s abilities and needs.
What to Expect in the ASD Assessment Process
Our ASD assessment process is designed to be thorough and supportive, ensuring we capture a complete picture of your child’s developmental needs:
Initial Consultation
We begin with a consultation where we gather information about your child’s developmental history, current behaviours, and any concerns you may have. This session helps us shape the assessment around your child’s specific needs.
Comprehensive Assessment
The assessment itself includes a range of standardised tests, behavioural observations, and interviews with parents or caregivers. The dual assessment may include additional focus on language and communication, depending on the involvement of the speech pathologist. These tools help identify strengths and areas of difficulty across cognitive, social, and emotional domains.
Detailed Report
Once the assessment is completed, we provide a detailed report outlining the results, including whether your child meets the diagnostic criteria for ASD. The report also includes personalised recommendations for support, interventions, or strategies that can help foster your child’s development.
Post-Assessment Discussion
Following the assessment, we offer a post-assessment discussion to go over the findings in detail. This session provides an opportunity to ask questions and discuss the best path forward, whether that involves additional support services, educational interventions, or therapy options.
Why Choose Steps & Stones Psychology for ASD Assessments?
Personalised Assessments
We understand that each child is unique. Our assessments are tailored to reflect your child’s individual needs and circumstances, providing a clear and accurate picture of their developmental profile.
Supportive and Professional
Our team is committed to making the assessment process as stress-free as possible for both children and families. We provide a caring, supportive environment, ensuring families feel informed and supported at every stage.
Collaborative Approach
With the option of a dual diagnostic assessment, you gain the combined expertise of both a psychologist and a speech pathologist, ensuring that all aspects of your child’s development, including communication and social skills, are thoroughly evaluated.
Clear Recommendations
Our assessments go beyond diagnosis. We offer practical, evidence-based recommendations that can guide your child's ongoing development, providing actionable steps for families, schools, and support networks.
Ready to Begin? Book an ASD Assessment Today
If you think an ASD assessment could benefit your child, contact us to discuss our single or dual diagnostic options. Whether it’s understanding your child’s unique strengths or identifying areas where they need support, we are here to guide you through the process.