Comprehensive autism (ASD) assessments for children
An early autism diagnosis is the first step to getting your child the support they need.
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Discover your child’s strengths: a guide to autism assessments
Is your child experiencing communication difficulties or exhibiting signs of autism?
At Early Start Australia, we offer assessments for children aged 2-16 years to support a formal diagnosis.
Receiving an autism diagnosis and appropriate support early can make a big difference in a child’s development and quality of life.
Our assessments are conducted by experienced and fully qualified registered psychologists.
No referral is required, however you may be eligible for a Medicare rebate with a doctor’s referral.
What’s included?
Why choose Early Start Australia?
- Precision in diagnosis: Our assessments are detailed, extensive and thorough providing a clear and accurate understanding of your child’s strengths and areas for development.
- All-inclusive approach: Our comprehensive evaluations cover all aspects, from intake appointments to feedback sessions and screening for ADHD.
- Support for funding applications: Our detailed reports can be used to support funding applications, giving you the resources you need.
Locations where the comprehensive autism assessment is available
Victoria
Western Australia
The autism assessment process
Our assessment team will use tests, questions and activities to assess your child’s strengths and abilities.
An assessment also includes observing your child in various environments.
Here’s what the process looks like:
- The process begins with a referral from a GP, paediatrician, or even you as parents.
- The assessment team gathers information with their tests. They’ll also review your family history and observe your child.
- A variety of assessment tools and checklists are used to measure your child’s strengths and areas for development.
- A formal diagnosis is made, outlining specific details of your child’s autism spectrum disorder.
- With a formal diagnosis, you can get a personalised support plan to unlock your child’s full potential.
6. Our therapists provide ongoing therapy and support parents to provide care at home.
It’s important to remember that autism assessments are not a one-size-fits-all approach.
Each assessment is tailored to your child’s unique needs.
The support of a multidisciplinary team working together, provides a comprehensive picture on how to help your child.
Support for autism spectrum disorders
If your child receives a formal autism spectrum disorder diagnosis, you can get support immediately.
There are a number of support options available in clinics and at home.
That’s where early intervention therapy comes in – dedicated therapies for young children.
At Early Start, we have a multidisciplinary team of professionals, made up of:
- Speech pathologists
- Occupational therapists
- Psychologists
- Positive behaviour support practitioners
- ESDM therapists
- Physiotherapists
- Social workers
Referrals and rebates
Did you know that autism assessments may attract a rebate from Medicare?
With an eligible referral from your paediatrician (or psychiatrist for young people) you may attract a rebate for up to four of the assessment sessions with the psychologist and/or speech pathologist.
The referral type is called Complex Neurodevelopmental Disorder and eligible disabilities.
This referral is only available from a paediatrician or psychiatrist and is not available from a GP.
The rebate amount for each referred session (which may be less than or up to four) is $96 or may be more (up to 80% of the cost) based on individual circumstances, such as Medicare safety net threshold.
You can check your Medicare safety net threshold amount on the Medicare app Medicare online account – Services Australia. Make sure you have registered all of your family members to the family threshold. This is not automatic so will need to be manually done by you to ensure the threshold is logged as the family threshold. Your family Medicare safety net threshold will be either $834 or $2,615 for the calendar year. You will be eligible for the lower threshold amount if If you are eligible for Family Tax Benefit Part A or if two or more people in your registered Medicare Safety Net family hold a concession card
Frequently asked questions
Unlock potential with Early Start
Work with a team of skilled therapists from diverse backgrounds to help your child achieve their developmental milestones
With comprehensive ASD assessments, we can help identify your child’s challenges and recommend support to help them overcome their personal challenges.
You and your child receive tailored treatment plans and compassionate support from a dedicated team of therapists.
How to get started
- Contact your nearest Early Start Australia clinic to book your initial appointment. Our therapist will listen to your concerns and guide you on beginning your child’s therapy journey.
- We’ll make recommendations for assessments to give us a better understanding of your child.
- We’ll review the assessment results and provide detailed reports and feedback identifying your child’s strengths and challenges. We then work with you to develop a personalised therapy plan to suit your child’s needs.
- You and your child will begin their plan which may include a variety of therapies, lifestyle changes, and support for parents and educators. We are experienced in delivering children’s assessments and counselling and we like to keep therapy sessions fun, engaging and playful.
If you have any questions or would like to speak to someone for more information about our services, visit our Contact us page.
Find a clinic near you
We have clinics in every state and territory providing assessments, early childhood intervention therapies, and support to help you thrive.
Find a clinicEarly Start Australia’s promise
Comprehensive care as a team
Together, we’ll design a therapy plan that’s tailored specifically to your child’s unique needs.
Get multidisciplinary support with a blend of therapeutic interventions, lifestyle adjustments, and even training for parents.
ASD focused clinics across the nation
No matter where you are, we’ve got you covered with clinics and therapists in multiple locations throughout Australia. You’ll always get the help you need, when you need it.
NDIS early intervention services
Our early intervention services may be fully covered within your NDIS plan. So you can say goodbye to added stress, and focus on getting the vital support your child needs.
Early intervention for all people
We offer ASD assessments and care for people of all ages and abilities, including adults living with autism.