Autism Assessments
Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person communicates, connects with others, and experiences the world. It can also involve patterns of special interests and restricted or repetitive behaviours.
Autism presents differently in every individual, and part of the assessment process is understanding each person’s unique profile—rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach.
The Sydney Child and Family Practice has been working in this space for over a decade, supporting children, families, and adults across a range of settings. This experience informs a careful, individualised approach to assessment that looks beyond surface behaviours to understand the broader developmental picture.
What the Assessment Involves
An autism assessment is completed over a series of appointments, allowing for a thorough and well-rounded understanding of the individual.
The process typically includes:
1. Initial Appointment
An initial session to understand your concerns, a brief developmental history, and current presentation. This helps guide the focus of the assessment.
2. ADOS-2 Assessment
The Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2) is a structured, play-based or conversational assessment that looks at social communication and interaction in real time. This is completed directly with the individual.
3. Developmental Interview (ADI-R)
A detailed parent interview (ADI-R) is completed to gain a comprehensive understanding of early development, behaviour patterns, and how things have evolved over time.
4. Observation in Everyday Environments
Where possible, we conduct observations in the individual’s everyday environment—such as at home, in daycare, or at school. This allows for a more natural and accurate understanding of how they interact and engage in familiar settings without the pressure of an assessment.
5. Questionnaires and Additional Information
Standardised questionnaires and information from parents, teachers, or other supports are regularly included to build a complete picture.
6. Comprehensive Report and Feedback
Following the assessment, a detailed report is provided. This outlines findings, diagnostic considerations, strengths and challenges, and tailored recommendations. A feedback session is also included to talk through the outcomes and next steps.
Who This Assessment Is For
Autism assessments are available across the lifespan.
You may be seeking an assessment if:
you’re a parent noticing differences in your child’s communication, behaviour, or development
your child or teenager is finding social situations, school, or emotional regulation particularly challenging
you’ve received feedback from a teacher, GP, or other professional suggesting further assessment
you’re an adult who has long wondered whether autism may explain aspects of your experiences, relationships, or way of thinking
Many people come to this process unsure of what they will find. The aim is not just to determine whether someone meets criteria for autism, but to develop a clearer understanding of their profile, strengths, and needs.
Fees and Structure
Autism assessments are comprehensive and completed over multiple sessions, including interviews, structured assessments, observations, and a detailed written report.
The total cost of an assessment starts from $2,500 which reflects:
multiple assessment sessions
administration and scoring of standardised tools (ADOS-2, ADI-R, questionnaires)
review of collateral information (e.g. school or other reports)
a comprehensive written report
a feedback session to discuss outcomes and recommendations
A payment schedule can be discussed and structured across the assessment process.
If you are unsure whether an assessment is appropriate, an initial consultation can be arranged to talk this through.
“Autism is not a disease to be cured, but a different way of experiencing the world to be understood.”
“The goal is not to label, but to better understand how someone experiences the world — and how to support them within it.”
Something to Know About Autism Assessments
We aim to provide a thoughtful and flexible approach
Assessments can be completed in a range of ways depending on your needs.
In-clinic appointments
Telehealth components
Mobile assessments (home, school, or daycare)
In many cases, we offer a combination of these options. For example, the ADOS-2 may be completed in a familiar environment, while other components are conducted via telehealth or in rooms.
This approach allows us to better understand the individual—seeing how they communicate and interact in environments where they feel most comfortable, rather than only within a clinical setting.
Why This Matters
No two individuals with autism present in the same way.
A comprehensive assessment is not just about identifying whether someone meets the diagnostic criteria—it’s about understanding how autism presents for that individual, what their strengths are, and what supports will be most helpful moving forward.
Our aim is to provide an assessment process that feels thorough, respectful, and genuinely useful—giving you clarity, direction, and practical recommendations for next steps.