Combined Autism and ADHD Assessments

"A person with ADHD has the power of a Ferrari engine but with bicycle-strength brakes"
- Edward Hallowell

It can be common to be both autistic AND have ADHD- we call this an 'auDHDer'. You may want to consider a combined autism and ADHD assessment. This is the most common assessment I do.

If you're wanting an autism assessment only, please check out this page.

If you want both an autism AND ADHD assessment, please keep on reading!

Note that I don't do standalone ADHD testing, but only as an add-on for autism assessments. It's best that you go directly to see a psychiatrist is you suspect you have ADHD.

ADHD in high masking women is poorly recognised, under-diagnosed and under-treated in women in Australia (it is NOT over-diagnosed).

ADHD presents differently in women. Some women with ADHD can present in a more subtle manner, mostly due to years of having to create mechanisms of coping and or overcompensating to help deal with the difficulties faced in daily living., and societal expectations that are often placed on women.

In addition, diagnostic overshadowing from various mental health conditions may delay recognition of ADHD.

Individuals with a diagnosis of ADHD will NOT grow out of the diagnosis- the symptoms of ADHD may change over time from childhood to adulthood.

Combined ADHD and AutismAssessments

I aim to balance a gentle approach with providing a comprehensive assessment including clinical interviews and executive function assessment.

This assessment requires a 1-2 hour telehealth interview for the ADHD part- the tool I use is highly regarded- the ‘DIVA-5’. We also have a 2 hour interview for the autism part- I use the MIGDAS.

Other assessments are completed online. Assessments used include ADHD screeners (ASRS, WURS), executive function (BRIEF, or CAARS), and DIVA-5 clinical interview. There are a number for the autism component too (CATI, CAT-Q, ACE, SRS-2, and so on).

I also use observational data, and review data from your loved ones (only where available- don't worry!)

The sessions are done via videoconferencing using Zoom.

My assessments are affirming and relaxed.

I am able to assess high masking and late identified autistic and ADHD neurotypes, and those who were diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder, or just 'anxiety', or 'Generalised Anxiety Disorder' or 'Social Anxiety' (many autistic folk also have these!)

Due to my training, I'm able to tease out differential diagnoses and provide diagnostic clarity.

What can I expect?

What are the benefits?

Insight and validation- an assessment can help to better understand yourself at a deeper level, bringing insight and validation

Better mental health - a diagnosis helps to indicate which treatment is best for you

Identify strengths- assessments are also about unpacking your key strengths

Connection- having a formal diagnosis will help connect you to your neurokin

Adjustments and support- having a diagnosis allows you to have more adjustments and support at work, and at uni/TAFE

Self compassion- the process helps you to be kinder to yourself.

The Process

Please email us your mobile and when to ring, or just email us. We can also offer a free 5 minute call.

Complete online questionnaires, and email us any reports that you might have.

We also email loved ones (‘informants’) a questionnaire to complete.

Join for a 1- 1.5 hour interview for the ADHD part, and a 2 hour interview for the autism part (can take longer sometimes).

We'll email you the report, and you're welcome to suggest changes required.

Outcomes, fees and information

What you get

Your combined Autism and ADHD report will give you excellent insight into your profile - it will validate the areas that you have struggled with, and also highlight key strengths.

I provide comprehensive and tailored recommendations.

Reports are comprehensive and include your background info, results, strengths, recommendations, and next steps.

If you would like a letter for university or your workplace, a tailored letter can be provided.

In regards to ADHD- note that a psychiatrist is required to do their due diligence and do their own assessment of you (even if you have a report from a psychologist) given that they are able to prescribe 'schedule 8 drugs' (restricted).

Cost

A combined Autism and ADHD assessment and report is $2500.

Can you prescribe ADHD medication?

No. only a psychiatrist can. Please note you do not need an assessment from a psychologist for ADHD in order to receive medication.

If you suspect that you have ADHD, it is easier and more cost effective for you to go straight to a psychiatrist, rather than have an assessment with a psychologist. Especially if you are interested in trialing ADHD medication, please see a psychiatrist directly instead.

I am able to offer standalone ADHD assessments, but this is done on a case-by-case basis only, and only if you do not plan to see a psychiatrist to trial stimulant medication.

Rebates

Medicare rebates do not apply for adult ADHD assessment sessions, but you can have one for the autism component if 25 and under.

We do not give discounts for Health Care Cards, and do not offer payment plans- please consider testing via a local university for low fee options.

Private health funds vary in their coverage of assessments. Please contact your health fund to enquire.

Welcome to your safe space