Autism, ADHD & Cognitive Assessments

A neurodevelopmental assessment for Autism and Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity (ADHD) aims to evaluate key areas such as individual strengths, support needs, cognitive capacity, and diagnostic understanding for children, young people and adults. Our assessments focus on understanding natural variations in brain function and how they impact social interaction, communication, attention, behaviour, and sensory processing. Since autism and ADHD exist on a spectrum, each person presents their own unique traits and characteristics. Autism and ADHD frequently occur together, with research showing that around 30-50% of individuals diagnosed with autism also meet the criteria for ADHD. Both conditions share overlapping traits, such as differences in attention, sensory processing, and executive functioning, making it important to consider both in a comprehensive assessment. Recognising this overlap allows for a more accurate understanding of an individual’s neurotype and their unique strengths and support needs.

At Tend Mental Health, we offer comprehensive assessments for autism, ADHD, and cognitive functioning for both children and adults. Our process follows the gold standard of care to ensure an accurate diagnosis and informed therapy recommendations. Our approach is centered on respecting neurodiversity and supporting each individual’s unique neurotype.

Psychologists cannot prescribe medication. Medication can be discussed with a paediatrician or psychiatrist.

Assessment options, fees and rebates that may apply are discussed below.

Autism & ADHD Assessments

Autism & ADHD assessments for young people (6-17 years) & Adults (18+)

An autism/ADHD assessment helps to better understand an individual's unique neurotype and support needs. For autism assessments, this also includes a functional capacity evaluation, which can assist with NDIS funding applications.

What' does it include?

Clinical interview with the individual and their parent/caregiver.
Liaison with teachers or other adult observers and key supports to gather further context.
Review of previous reports if applicable.
Autism assessment interview using the Monteiro Interview Guidelines for Diagnosing the Autism Spectrum, Second Edition (MIGDAS-2)
ADHD assessment using the Diagnostic Interview for ADHD (Young DIVA 2.0)
Behavioural screening questionnaires, such as The Connors, CAARS, or BASC, completed by the parent/caregiver and, when appropriate, the individual.
Executive function testing

Up to 1-hour feedback session to explain findings, recommendations, and next steps.
Comprehensive report, including results, recommendations for interventions, relevant diagnoses, and suggestions for further assessments or supports.

Cognitive Assessments

Cognitive assessments for young people (6-17 years).

A cognitive assessment helps identify an individual's learning strengths and differences, guiding the development of personalised learning strategies and recommendations.

What's involved?

Collecting background information through interviews with the individual, parents/caregivers, and teachers.
Conducting the assessment using the Wechsler Intelligence Scales for Children – Fourth Edition (WISC-IV).
A feedback session to explain the findings, offer tailored recommendations, and address any questions.
Providing a detailed report to outline results and recommendations for learning support.

Psychological Assessment

Fees & Rebates

Medicare Rebates for Psychology Assessment

Some psychological therapy and assessment services are eligible for partial rebates from Medicare. Here’s a summary of eligibility and processes.

Medicare Better Access Rebates

Eligibility: Requires a Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) from a General Practitioner (GP), Paediatrician, or Psychiatrist.

Coverage: Up to 10 sessions per calendar year.

Review: A follow-up by the referring professional is needed after the first 6 sessions.

Rebate Amounts: Clinical Psychologist: $141.85 per 50-minute session.

Assessments: The MHCP does not cover Autism Spectrum assessments or specific counselling for autism but does cover related mental health issues like anxiety and depression. However the Medicare Complex Neurodevelopmental Disorder Rebates may apply (as per below).

Medicare Complex Neurodevelopmental Disorder Rebates

Eligibility: For clients under 25 referred by a Paediatrician or Psychiatrist.

Diagnostic Assessment Plan: Up to 4 sessions with a rebate of $141.85 per session.

Treatment Plan: After a diagnosis of autism, clients can access 20 sessions of combined therapy (psychology, speech, occupational therapy) with a $93.35 rebate per session.