Question 1

What is autism, and how is it assessed in adults?

Accepted Answer

Autism is a neurotype (the way the brain is structured). It is characterised by differences in social communication, sensory processing, and patterns of thinking and behaviour compared to non-Autistic folks and is a natural variation in how people experience and interact with the world. Assessing autism in adults involves understanding your personal history, current experiences, and neurodivergent traits through interviews, questionnaires, and possibly input from family or others who know you well and then using the DSM-5-TR as the diagnostic tool. My assessments focus on identifying your strengths and challenges to provide a holistic understanding of your individual context. My goal is to provide a thorough and respectful assessment that helps you better understand yourself and your needs.

Question 2

What does a neurodiversity affirming approach mean?

Accepted Answer

A neurodiversity affirming approach means recognising and respecting neurodivergent traits as natural variations of human experience rather than deficits. My focus is on understanding your unique strengths, challenges, and needs without imposing judgment or pathologising your identity. This approach is collaborative and tailored to support your goals. As a clinician who provides neurodiversity affirming care, I have undergone many years of unlearning and relearning core philosophies and approaches to my work, ensuring that I can provide ethical treatment to all clients. To be truly neurodiversity affirming takes significant time and it remains an ongoing process of decolonising.

Question 3

Why should I consider an autism assessment?

Accepted Answer

An autism assessment can help you gain deeper self-understanding and access accommodations or supports that align with your needs. Many adults seek assessments to validate their experiences, navigate relationships, or inform their work and/or education environments. Diagnosis may also provide access to additional supports such as disability specific organisations, or the NDIS. Knowing more about yourself can be empowering. It is your due diligence to decide if you would like a formal assessment as a diagnosis can impact access to some workplaces and insurances.

Question 4

Do you screen for ADHD alongside autism?

Accepted Answer

Yes, I screen for ADHD as part of my autism assessments through brief interview, records review, and observation. However, I do not provide a formal ADHD diagnosis. In my experience many clients seeking an ADHD diagnosis wish to explore medical treatments, such as medication, which requires a psychiatrist to complete a full assessment. By screening for ADHD, I can provide insights that may help guide further evaluation, hopefully saving you time and money when working with a psychiatrist.

Question 5

Do you assess people outside of Australia?

Accepted Answer

Currently, my services are only available to clients based in Australia due to licensing and legal considerations. If you are outside Australia, I recommend seeking a local clinician familiar with neurodivergent-affirming assessments.

Question 6

Can you assess me if I already suspect or know I’m autistic?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Many clients come to me with a strong sense of self-identification. My role is to provide a formal assessment that explores your experience and supports your goals. If you are not ready to undertake a full assessment but would like to consult with me regarding potential self-identification, please go to my assessment page to learn more about that.

Frequently asked questions