Take a Combined Assessment (e.g., ASD + ADHD or ASD + SLD) with Strategic Psychology, Canberra
At Strategic Psychology, we offer comprehensive psychological assessments to help individuals gain a deeper understanding of their cognitive, academic, and behavioural strengths and challenges. Our experienced psychologists personalise each assessment to meet the unique needs of our clients, delivering a thorough and supportive evaluation process.
What are Combined Assessments?
Combined Assessments are designed for individuals who may exhibit traits of more than one condition, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) paired with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) or ASD with a Specific Learning Disorder (SLD). These assessments evaluate multiple areas of functioning—such as social communication, attention, and academic skills—to provide a comprehensive understanding of an individual’s strengths and challenges. Symptoms of these conditions can overlap, making a combined approach essential for accurate diagnosis and tailored support. This process is suitable for both children and adults, with adjustments made based on age and developmental history.
More information
Assessment Tools Used
- ASD Tools: ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised), ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule – 2nd Edition)
- ADHD Tools: Conners’ 4th Edition (for ADHD, ODD, and CD), CAARS (for adults)
- SLD Tools: WIAT-4 (Wechsler Individual Achievement Test-4th Edition)
- Adaptive Functioning: ABAS-3 (Adaptive Behaviour Assessment System-3rd Edition)
- Cognitive Assessments: WISC-V, WASI-II, WAIS-IV, TONI-4, or WPPSI-IV (depending on age and language ability)
Assessment Process
- Pre-session: Clients are emailed links to complete the ABAS-3 and additional questionnaires relevant to the combined conditions (e.g., Conners’ for ADHD or background forms for SLD).
- Session 1: The first session involves parents (for children) or the client (for adults) and includes gathering detailed background information and administering tools like the ADI-R (for ASD). This session may take up to 120 minutes.
- Session 2: The client attends an in-person session for assessments such as the ADOS-2 (for ASD), cognitive testing, and/or WIAT-IV (for SLD). This can take up to 120 minutes, depending on the combination.
- Session 3 (if required): Additional testing, such as ADHD-specific measures or academic assessments, may be conducted if not completed in prior sessions.
- Feedback: Preliminary verbal feedback is provided at the end of the final session, outlining whether diagnostic criteria are met for one or more conditions.
- Report: A full report detailing findings across all assessed areas will be delivered within 12 weeks via email directly to the client.
Is There Potential for NDIS Funding After the Assessment?
Please contact the NDIA/NDIS for specific information regarding funding eligibility. We are not affiliated with the NDIS/NDIA and cannot offer advice.
Important Considerations
If an assessment may be used to support a funding application with an agency (e.g. NDIS or Services Australia), it is important to confirm the relevant eligibility requirements in advance. These agencies often require assessments to be completed by a psychologist with specific registration or qualifications. Selecting the appropriate psychologist and assessment from the outset is essential, as some assessments have restrictions on how often they can be repeated. Understanding the criteria relevant to your circumstances before proceeding will help ensure the assessment aligns with both current and future needs.
Ready to get started?
Book an assessment today
Find available booking times now, send a booking enquiry through our online form, or call us on 6262 6157 to speak with a team member about the process and current availability.