Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Assessments
Comprehensive, Evidence-Based Diagnosis in Blackwood
At Steps and Stones Psychology, we understand that seeking an autism assessment in Blackwood for your child is a significant step. You want answers, you want clarity, and you want a report that provides a clear path forward for your family.
We provide comprehensive diagnostic assessments that utilise the framework outlined in the National Guideline for the Assessment and Diagnosis of Autism. Our process is rigorous, neuro-affirming, and designed to identify your child’s unique strengths and challenges.
Our Assessment Pathways
We offer two diagnostic pathways to suit the complexity of your child’s presentation and your specific funding needs.
1. Dual Diagnostic Assessment (Multidisciplinary)
Collaborative Assessment: Registered Psychologist + Speech Pathologist
Investment: $2,200
This is our recommended pathway. It involves two clinicians assessing your child simultaneously. This multidisciplinary approach provides a robust developmental profile often preferred by funding bodies.
- Best for: Children with complex presentations, language delays, or where a high level of evidence is required.
- Why choose this? It combines the expertise of Psychology (cognitive/behavioural) and Speech Pathology (communication/social use of language) to create a comprehensive picture of your child.
2. Single Clinician Assessment
Conducted by a Registered Psychologist
Investment: $1,450
A thorough diagnostic evaluation conducted solely by a Registered Psychologist.
- Best for: Children with clearer presentations, or families who are already working closely with a Paediatrician or Psychiatrist who requires psychological evidence to finalise a diagnosis.
Not sure if you need a full assessment?
If you are unsure if your child requires a full diagnostic evaluation, we recommend starting with our ASD Screening Evaluation.
The Tools We Use (Evidence-Based)
We do not rely on guesswork. We use the most clinically validated diagnostic tools available globally to ensure accuracy. Your child’s assessment may include:
- ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, 2nd Edition): The “gold standard” observational assessment for autism.
- ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised): A comprehensive developmental interview with parents.
- Vineland-3: To assess adaptive behaviour and functional capacity (crucial for NDIS).
- Conners 4 / Conners CBRS: To screen for co-occurring ADHD or behavioural concerns.
- ASRS (Autism Spectrum Rating Scales): Questionnaires for parents and teachers.
- Clinical Interviews: With the child, parents, and educators (childcare or school).
Meeting NDIS & Medical Requirements
Important Information for Parents
The NDIS and medical specialists require a diagnosis to be robust. While our Dual Assessment meets the criteria of a “Specialist Multi-disciplinary Team,” the NDIS and schools may require medical oversight to rule out other organic causes.
Our Recommendation: To support your child’s diagnosis being accepted for NDIS access and school support, we strongly encourage that our assessment be reviewed and endorsed by a Paediatrician or Child Psychiatrist.
- How we help: Our comprehensive reports provide the detailed psychological and functional evidence (including ADOS-2 and Vineland-3 results) that Paediatricians expect to support a diagnosis.
- Collaboration: We are happy to work collaboratively with your chosen medical specialist to ensure a smooth process.
The Assessment Process
Our process is designed to be thorough yet supportive, ensuring we capture a complete picture of your child.
Step 1: Initial Consultation
We meet with you (parents/carers) to discuss developmental history, current concerns, and family background. This helps us select the right testing tools for your child.
Step 2: Information Gathering
We collect data from those who know your child best. This includes clinical interviews with you and, where relevant, your child’s teacher or childcare educator.
Step 3: The Assessment Session
Your child attends our clinic in Blackwood. Using play-based tools like the ADOS-2, we observe their social communication, play skills, and restricted or repetitive behaviours.
- In a Dual Assessment, both the Psychologist and Speech Pathologist are present.
Step 4: Comprehensive Report & Feedback
We analyse all the data to determine if your child meets the DSM-5 criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder. You will receive a detailed report outlining:
- Diagnostic findings.
- Functional capacity (Vineland-3 results).
- Individual strengths and challenges.
- Recommendations for school, home, and therapy.
Step 5: Post-Assessment Discussion
We invite you back for a feedback session to explain the report in plain English, answer your questions, and discuss the next steps for your child’s support journey.
Why Choose Steps & Stones?
Evidence-Based Framework
We utilise the tools and methods recommended by Australian best-practice guidelines.
Neuro-Affirming
We view autism as a different way of thinking, not a deficit to be fixed. Our goal is to support your child to thrive as their authentic self.
Local Expertise
Based in the Adelaide Foothills (Blackwood), we understand the local school systems and support networks.
Ready to find answers?
Book your ASD Assessment
If you believe your child may be on the autism spectrum, contact us to discuss whether a Single or Dual Assessment is right for your family.