Getting a diagnosis: autism, ADHD, cognitive and learning assessments

There’s no medical test (such as a blood test) that can diagnose autism, ADHD, learning disorders, intellectual developmental disorder (IDD), giftedness or cognitive ability. Instead, medical or allied health professionals will generally want to meet in person and ask individuals questions about their life and experiences. Standardised assessment tools are also used.

At Aspect, assessments are delivered by Clinical Psychologists or Neuropsychologists, with experience and post-graduate training in the assessment and diagnosis of neurodevelopmental disabilities (e.g. autism, ADHD, IDD and learning disorders).

We offer services for children, adolescents and adults, and our comprehensive approach helps identify developmental differences and determine what strategies and supports will assist an individual to achieve their goals and reach their full potential.

Our assessments are designed to provide clarity, inform supports, and guide next steps - whether at home, school, work or in the community.

What to expect from an assessment with Aspect

At Aspect, an autism, ADHD or learning assessment takes around 4 to 6 hours and is typically conducted over the course of one day, whereas a cognitive assessment is approximately 3 to 4 hours. We will work with you to make the process as comfortable and accessible as possible. With both children and adults, we encourage you to bring a trusted family member or support person along to support you in the process, and just to keep you company. If you don't have someone available, the Aspect team will make you feel supported, including having access to a private quiet room for the duration.

For children, the assessment usually begins with the child and their parent or carer together. When the child feels ready, the clinician will meet with them one‑on‑one and also spend time speaking with the parent(s) or carer(s) separately.

At the end of the process, we will spend time with the parent/carer to go through the initial results and will send a more detailed formal written report to review later. This report outlines assessment results and recommendations to help guide supports and planning across home, school and other settings.

Social Stories

We've created animated social story videos to help you learn about the assessment process and to know what to expect. We have videos for both face-to-face and Telehealth assessments for children and adults. Click the relevant link below to watch the video.

Assessments aren’t always easy to access due to lengthy waitlists, so some adults may choose to self-identify. Self-identification is helpful for connection with their identity and the Autistic community, and may lead to seeking formal support when possible.