Autism & ADHD Diagnostic Assessments
Our Formal Diagnostic Assessments
At Jardin Spectrum Assist, we provide comprehensive Autism and ADHD diagnostic assessments to offer clarity and a deeper understanding of each person’s neurodivergence. Our Specialist Multidisciplinary Team consists of:
​
-
Dr Hugo Gonzales – Clinical Psychologist
-
Matthew Jardin – Developmental Educator
-
Alysse – Occupational Therapist
-
Michael – Occupational Therapist
Our team collaborates to ensure accurate, thorough, and respectful assessments that honour each person’s strengths, challenges, and lived experiences.
​
Our Approach
​
-
Neurodiversity-affirming – We celebrate and respect neurological differences, ensuring that every assessment is conducted in a supportive and affirming environment.
-
Evidence-based and holistic – Our process integrates robust clinical expertise with a deep understanding of sensory, developmental, and functional needs.
-
Personalised and meaningful – We go beyond diagnosis to provide tailored recommendations that support each person’s unique strengths, challenges, and goals.
We are committed to ensuring that every autistic and ADHD person receives the recognition, understanding, and support they deserve. Our diagnostic process is thorough, compassionate, and empowering, with a focus on enhancing each person’s quality of life and self-understanding.
-
Specialist Expertise and Experience
Our Specialist Multidisciplinary Team consists of highly qualified professionals with extensive experience in Autism and ADHD diagnostic assessments. We are skilled in recognising diverse presentations, including female and non-traditional expressions of autism across the lifespan. -
Holistic and Individualised Assessments
We take a comprehensive, person-centred approach, considering all aspects of a person’s life, strengths, and challenges. Every assessment is tailored to reflect their unique experiences and needs. -
Neurodiversity-Affirming Approach
We recognise and celebrate neurodiversity, ensuring a supportive, affirming, and safe environment where every autistic and ADHD person feels understood, respected, and valued. -
Clinicians with Lived Experience
Our team includes clinicians with lived experience, offering insights that enhance empathy, understanding, and meaningful support throughout the diagnostic process. -
Valid and Reliable Reports for NDIS, Employment, and Education
Our comprehensive reports can be used as supportive documentation for NDIS access, workplace accommodations, and educational adjustments. -
Limited Wait Times
We understand the urgency of obtaining support and offer shorter wait times to ensure timely access to assessments and recommendations. -
Lifespan Assessments
Our diagnostic assessments are available for children, adolescents, and adults, ensuring appropriate and tailored support at every stage of life. -
Trusted by Healthcare Professionals
We regularly work alongside psychiatrists, paediatricians, and GPs, ensuring that our assessments provide the necessary evidence and insights for further medical reviews or treatment planning.
Cost and Accessibility
At Jardin Spectrum Assist, we are committed to making our Autism and ADHD diagnostic assessments as accessible and affordable as possible. Our pricing reflects our dedication to providing comprehensive, high-quality assessments while maintaining flexibility for those who need it.
​
-
No Additional Fees for ADHD Assessments – If ADHD is assessed alongside Autism, there is no extra charge.
-
Flexible Payment Plans Available – We understand that diagnostic assessments are a significant investment. Please speak with our team, and we will explain your options and work with you to find a payment plan that suits your needs.
-
No Medicare Rebates – Please note that JSA assessments are not eligible for Medicare rebates.
​
Breakdown of Diagnostic Services and Costs
1. Essential Diagnostic Assessment — $1,170 (increasing to $1,450 from 1 January 2026)
Includes:
-
Initial Intake/Screening via Telehealth or Teleconference – 1 hour
-
Diagnostic Assessment via Telehealth or Teleconference – 1 to 1.5 hours
-
Multidisciplinary Review and Summary Letter endorsed by our Clinical Psychologist
-
Feedback Session – Complimentary
If your clinician determines that an additional session is required, there is no extra cost to you.
​
What You Receive:
-
A Letter of Confirmation or Summary Letter outlining diagnostic outcomes and key recommendations.
-
Conducted by a Multidisciplinary Team, including our Clinical Psychologist and either our Developmental Educator or Occupational Therapist.
-
Combined Autism and ADHD assessment at no extra cost.
​
Turnaround: Approximately 1–2 weeks
Payment plans available
​
2. Comprehensive Diagnostic Assessment — $1,560 (increasing to $1,890 from 1 January 2026)
Includes:
-
Initial Intake/Screening via Telehealth or Teleconference – 1 hour
-
Diagnostic Assessment via Telehealth or Teleconference – 1 to 1.5 hours
-
Report Writing, Developmental, Functional, and Sensory Assessments, and Specialist Multidisciplinary Team Review
-
Feedback Session – Complimentary
If your clinician determines that an additional session is required, there is no extra cost to you.
​
What You Receive:
-
A Comprehensive Diagnostic Report (40+ pages) including:
-
Background and developmental history
-
Autism and/or ADHD observations and results
-
Sensory profile analysis
-
Assessment of Functional Capacity and Adaptive Behaviour using ABAS-3 and WHODAS 2.0 (or other relevant clinical tools)
-
Interpretation and summary of all findings
-
Clinically determined and justified recommendations for supports such as Occupational Therapy, Psychology, and Support Worker services, included where appropriate.
-
Recommendations for educational and workplace adjustments (reasonable accommodations) where clinically appropriate
-
-
Multidisciplinary Review and Letter of Confirmation or Summary Letter endorsed by our Clinical Psychologist
​
Turnaround: Approximately 2–4 weeks
Payment plans available​​
​
NDIS Recognised Autism Diagnostic Assessments
Accessing the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) requires a comprehensive and valid autism diagnosis conducted by qualified professionals who meet specific criteria. At Jardin Spectrum Assist (JSA), our Specialist Multidisciplinary Team ensures that every assessment meets the NDIS evidence requirements for autism diagnosis.
JSA Meets NDIS Criteria Under Two Key Categories:
1. Specialist Multidisciplinary Team
JSA follows a multidisciplinary approach, ensuring a thorough, evidence-based assessment. Our team collaborates to assess a person’s development, sensory profile, and functional abilities to provide a detailed and accurate diagnosis. Our Specialist Multidisciplinary Team includes:
-
Dr Hugo Gonzales – Clinical Psychologist
-
Matthew Jardin – Developmental Educator
-
Alysse – Occupational Therapist
-
Michael – Occupational Therapist
2. Clinical Psychologist with Expertise in Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Our Clinical Psychologist, Dr Hugo Gonzales, has extensive experience in diagnosing neurodevelopmental conditions, including Autism and ADHD. His expertise ensures that every diagnosis is based on current DSM-5 diagnostic criteria and meets NDIS standards for clinical accuracy and reliability.
​
NDIS Criteria for an Autism Diagnosis
To qualify for NDIS support, an Autism diagnosis must be conducted by one of the following:
​
-
A Specialist Multidisciplinary Team – A team of professionals, including a Psychologist, Developmental Educator, and Occupational Therapist, working collaboratively to assess and diagnose autism.
-
A Clinical Psychologist – A psychologist with experience diagnosing neurodevelopmental conditions using the DSM-5 criteria.
-
A Paediatrician or Psychiatrist – Medical specialists with expertise in diagnosing and managing autism.​
​​
​​
NDIS Eligibility and Autism Diagnosis
-
DSM-5 Criteria Compliance – All JSA assessments are conducted using the latest DSM-5 diagnostic framework.
-
Severity Level Specification – Autism diagnoses include a severity level of Level 2 (Requiring Substantial Support) or Level 3 (Requiring Very Substantial Support).
-
Level 1 Autism and Additional Evidence – In some cases, additional documentation, such as a Functional Capacity Assessment (FCA), can support an NDIS application for autistic people diagnosed at Level 1, provided the functional impact meets NDIS eligibility criteria.
Important Disclaimer: NDIS Decisions Are at Their Discretion
While our diagnostic assessments are robust, evidence-based, and aligned with NDIS criteria, we cannot guarantee NDIS approval. The final decision on eligibility and access to funding rests solely with the NDIS. Each application is assessed on a case-by-case basis, considering the impact of disability on daily functioning and participation.
For more information on NDIS eligibility, visit: NDIS Guidelines
Psychological vs. Medication Pathways for ADHD
For people diagnosed with ADHD, there are two primary pathways to managing challenges associated with attention, executive functioning, and emotional regulation:
1. Psychological and Therapeutic Support
Many people benefit from psychological and therapeutic interventions such as:
✔ Executive functioning strategies to improve organisation, time management, and planning.
✔ Cognitive-behavioural and emotional regulation techniques to navigate impulsivity, anxiety, and self-esteem challenges.
✔ Sensory and environmental adaptations to optimise learning and workplace settings.
✔ Supports such as therapy, skill-building, and accommodations.
2. Medication as a Treatment Option
Some people choose to explore medication to manage ADHD symptoms, which can help with:
✔ Improved focus and attention regulation, making it easier to engage in daily tasks.
✔ Reduced impulsivity and hyperactivity, leading to improved decision-making and self-control.
✔ Better emotional regulation, minimising mood swings and frustration.
Some people choose one approach, while others find a combination of both the most effective. There is no single ‘right’ option—every person’s needs and experiences are different.
​
Seeking ADHD Medication?
If you are considering medication as a treatment for ADHD, we recommend seeking a referral from your GP to a psychiatrist or paediatrician. While we do not prescribe medication, our comprehensive diagnostic assessments provide valuable evidence and supportive documentation that can assist your psychiatrist or paediatrician in their clinical decision-making.
​
Our reports outline clear diagnostic findings, functional impacts, and support needs, offering a detailed clinical picture that can be used to inform treatment pathways, including medical and therapeutic interventions.
​
At JSA, we are committed to ensuring that every autistic and ADHD person receives recognition, understanding, and access to appropriate supports. Whether you are seeking NDIS funding, educational accommodations, or further medical consultation, our diagnostic process provides the clarity and validation you need to move forward confidently.
​​​​
​
​
Our interventions at JARDIN SPECTRUM ASSIST go beyond standard practices. We are deeply committed to respecting the individual narratives of autistic and disabled people. Our support is tailored to recognise and honour the unique strengths and experiences of each person we work with. As we continue to listen, learn, and adapt, our mission remains clear: empowering individuals to lead lives defined by their own goals, dreams, and strengths—free from societal limitations.