Diagnosis
A diagnosis provides Autistic individuals an understanding of their strengths and difficulties and the support they need in achieving their goals and a good quality of life.
About Autism
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), otherwise known as Autism, is a lifelong developmental disability that affects how a person communicates with and relates to others. It also affects how they make sense of the world around them. The word ‘spectrum’ is used because Autism can impact individuals in different ways.
A diagnosis of Autism can assist others to understand the person’s support needs in education, making friends, participating in activities, finding employment, living independently, and in achieving a good quality of life.
What is the purpose of an Autism Assessment?
Our assessment will review whether the person meets the criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and may also identify other developmental conditions.
Contact us about our specialist Diagnostic service today.
Diagnostic Clinic for Autism
The Autism Diagnostic Clinic has an experienced multidisciplinary staff including specialist Consultant Psychiatrist, Clinical Psychologists, Speech Pathologists. We adhere to international best-practice standards for ASD assessments and align with the National Guideline for the Assessment and Diagnosis of Autism in Australia.
Our comprehensive assessments include a detailed diagnostic report and post-diagnostic support to help those diagnosed, access relevant services and improve their quality of life.
The Autism Association of WA completes ASD assessments for individuals from 2 to 18 years of age. The clinic does not assess adults aged 18 and above. However, we have a fact sheet which includes information on how to access diagnostic assessments outside of the Association.
Subsidised Cost of Assessment
The Autism Association heavily subsidises the cost of an assessment. A standard assessment fee is $1,700. Medicare rebates may apply.Â
Autism Assessment Referral Process
Our Specialist Autism Diagnostic Clinic provides multidisciplinary assessments for children between the ages of 2 up to 18 who may have Autism.
The assessment team consists of a Consultant Psychiatrist, Psychologists and Speech Pathologists, each of whom have extensive experience in the field of Autism.
Under 6 years old
For children under the age of 6 we require a referral from a Developmental Paediatrician. Where a child does not have access to a Paediatrician, please call the clinic to discuss.Â
6-18 years old
For children aged 6-18 years we require a referral from a Paediatrician, GP or Psychiatrist.
Referrals should be addressed to:
Dr. Kelly McKenna-Kerr
Consultant Psychiatrist
215 Stubbs Terrace Shenton Park WA 6008
The referral should be forwarded to the email diagnosis@autism.org.au.
All referrals will be considered on a case-by-case basis by the clinical team, and some may be advised of an alternative pathway more suited to the individual’s needs.
As part of this process, we will gather information about the child and ask families to complete some forms and provide other relevant information from their school, day care or other relevant health professionals involved in their care.
The comprehensive assessment will involve:
- An initial appointment with the Consultant Psychiatrist to review the clinical history and any concerns.
- A multidisciplinary assessment with Speech Pathologist and Psychologist.Â
- A developmental history interview with parents/caregivers.Â
- A case conference between the assessing team and Consultant Psychiatrist determines the diagnostic outcome.Â
- A comprehensive report will be written detailing the results and offering recommendations.
- A feedback appointment will be organised to discuss the assessment outcome and finalise the assessment process. 
Enquire about our specialist Diagnostic services today
Autism Association of WA
Explore our services
Contact us about our specialist diagnostic service today
Phone (08) 9489 8900 or email diagnosis@autism.org.au