We deliver structured ADHD and ASD assessments for children, adolescents and adults from our Melton and Sunbury clinics. Assessments are led by Mariam, one of our AHPRA-registered psychologists, who works across both locations. We use an intake-first model — a shorter first appointment to understand the reason for assessment and decide together whether to proceed to the full pathway. We do not prescribe medication, and we don't predict assessment outcomes or guarantee specific funding decisions. To book an intake appointment, call (03) 9746 6852 or book online.
On this page: What an assessment is · Intake appointment · Assessment process · The report · Children & adults · Funding · FAQ
What an ADHD or ASD assessment is
A formal ADHD or ASD assessment is a structured multi-session process that combines clinical interview, standardised questionnaires (often with input from a parent, partner or teacher), behavioural observation where appropriate, and review of supplementary information. The outcome is a written report with findings and practical recommendations.
What an assessment is not: a guarantee of a particular diagnosis, a guarantee of NDIS access, a brief tick-box screening, or a prescription pathway. We don't prescribe medication; if medication is being considered, that's a conversation for your GP or a psychiatrist.
The intake appointment
Most patients start with an intake appointment. The intake exists so we can:
- Understand why you're seeking assessment and who has raised the concerns (parent, school, GP, the person themselves)
- Talk through the assessment pathway, timeframes, costs and the practical limits of what a report can do
- Identify whether a full assessment is likely to be useful in your specific situation
- Decide together whether to proceed
The intake is shorter and less expensive than the full assessment pathway. Some people decide not to proceed after intake and that's a legitimate outcome.
The assessment process
If we agree to proceed, the full assessment typically involves:
- Clinical interview. A structured interview covering developmental history, current functioning across settings (home, school, work, social), and any prior assessments or diagnoses.
- Standardised questionnaires. Validated ADHD and/or ASD screening and rating scales, often completed by the patient and by a parent, partner or teacher where appropriate.
- Behavioural observation where clinically appropriate, especially with younger children.
- Review of supplementary information — prior reports, school feedback, workplace documentation, medical history.
- Synthesis and reporting. Findings are written up into a comprehensive report.
The assessment usually spans multiple appointments across a number of weeks. Reception will give you the current schedule at intake.
The report
The written report typically includes:
- The reason for assessment and the process followed
- A summary of the information gathered and how it was interpreted
- The assessment findings — what the assessment supports, what it doesn't, and any limitations
- Practical recommendations for school, workplace, family or further clinical input where relevant
The report is yours. You can share it with your GP, school, employer or NDIS planner as you choose. We can also share it directly with named parties with your consent.
Children, adolescents and adults
The pathway is broadly similar across age groups but the inputs vary:
- Children — we usually involve parents through history and rating-scale completion; school input is often important, with consent.
- Adolescents — we work directly with the adolescent and involve parents and school in proportion to the situation.
- Adults — we work directly with the patient, with the option of input from a partner, family member or workplace where appropriate.
Funding and payment
Most ADHD, ASD and cognitive assessments are paid privately or via private health rebates rather than directly Medicare-rebated. Specifically:
- Medicare — Medicare Mental Health Care Plan sessions cover individual psychology sessions rather than a full assessment pathway. Some elements may be covered depending on plan and provider; reception will outline what applies.
- Private health insurance — varies considerably by fund and policy. Check with your fund.
- NDIS — depending on plan and goals.
- Private payment — the most common pathway. Pricing varies by assessment depth and report length; reception will provide a current quote at intake.
Funding eligibility depends on your circumstances. Please contact reception if you'd like a current quote or to clarify what rebates may apply in your situation.
Frequently asked questions
How long does an assessment take?
Multiple appointments across several weeks, plus report-writing time. The exact pathway is explained at intake.
Do you prescribe medication after an ADHD diagnosis?
No. We don't prescribe medication. For medication discussions, you would see your GP or a psychiatrist.
Can I get an NDIS access result from an ADHD or ASD assessment?
The assessment is what the assessment shows. Whether NDIS access follows depends on the NDIA's criteria and the findings. We don't predict or guarantee outcomes.
Do I need a referral?
No referral is needed to book an intake appointment. A GP referral is required for Medicare-rebated psychology sessions specifically.
Can my child be assessed?
Yes — children, adolescents and adults can all be assessed. Parents are usually involved through history and rating scales.
I've had an assessment elsewhere. Can I get a second opinion?
Yes — bring the prior report and supporting documents to your intake appointment. We'll discuss whether a fresh assessment is appropriate and what would change.
Do you offer cognitive assessments too?
Yes — Reta delivers cognitive assessments at our Sunbury clinic and also visits Melton specifically for cognitive assessments. See our psychology overview.
How much does an assessment cost?
Pricing varies by assessment type, depth and report length. Reception will provide a current quote at intake.
Ready to book?
Call (03) 9746 6852 or book online.
An intake appointment is the right first step.
Related: psychology overview · all services
Reviewed by Mariam Ahmar, AHPRA-registered Psychologist · Last reviewed 2026-05-29.
