At Blueprint Psychology, we are dedicated to unravelling the complexities of autism through a comprehensive and compassionate process. Our journey to diagnose autism is comprehensive, involving keen observation of your child's behaviour, insightful interviews with you, and review of your child's developmental history. Our goal is to create a complete picture of your child's distinctive characteristics and needs.
Guided by the National Guideline for Autism Spectrum Disorder Assessment, we prioritise two standardized assessments: the comprehensive needs assessment and the diagnostic evaluation.
Comprehensive Needs Assessment
Assessment of Functioning: Here, our focus is on unearthing your child's strengths and capabilities across various domains, such as communication, daily living skills, and cognitive abilities. We delve into understanding your child's support requirements, medical history, and family dynamics. Other medical professionals, including GPs, pediatricians, and allied health experts such as psychologists and occupational therapists, contribute their insights to this phase.
Diagnostic Evaluation
When the comprehensive needs assessment indicates the potential for autism, we move forward with a diagnostic evaluation to affirm the diagnosis. This stage involves a comprehensive exploration of your child's strengths, differences, and challenges. Our professionals engage in detailed discussions with you and review the information gathered during the comprehensive needs assessment.
This evaluation can be facilitated by external health and child development experts, including paediatricians, psychiatrists, occupational therapists, and speech pathologists.
Diagnostic Tools for Clarity
Our diagnostic tools include:
Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2)
Adaptive Behaviour Assessment System, Third Edition (ABAS-3)
Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R)
These tools, combined with our team's expertise, provide valuable insights into your child's unique journey.
Preparation and Empowerment
As you prepare for the assessment, we encourage you to document specific instances of your child's behaviours along with their age at the time. You can engage your child by explaining the assessment process using visuals or social stories (we can link ours), ensuring their comfort and understanding.
The Interim Period
Waiting for the assessment outcome might feel challenging, but it's an opportunity to explore alternative strategies and options that may expedite the process. Some experts might recommend extended observation, especially for children under 18 months, to gauge developmental progress accurately.
NDIS Support and Early Intervention
We encourage you to access the NDIS's early childhood early intervention approach, available to children under 7, regardless of a formal diagnosis. This approach ensures that your child receives tailored support to enhance their development, paving the way for a brighter future.
Choosing Assessment Services
We understand that choosing assessment services can be a significant decision. It is important to be aware that there are public and private assessment options. Public services offer cost-free solutions but might entail waiting periods. On the other hand, private assessments, like ours, provide expedited outcomes, albeit with associated costs. Medicare rebates and private health insurance can partially alleviate the financial aspect.
At Blueprint Psychology, our approach to diagnosing autism is not just clinical. We recognise that each child is unique, and their strengths and attributes are celebrated throughout this journey. Our aim is to empower both you and your child.
