Assessment
Welcome to Blueprint Psychology, where we offer a range of assessment services to support children, adolescents, and adults who are neurodiverse, or with developmental, cognitive, and learning challenges. Our experienced and dedicated clinicians conduct these assessments either in person or with the assistance of a secure telehealth platform called COVIU, allowing you to complete some of our assessments from the comfort of your home.
If you or your child are seeking assessment for neurodiverse conditions like Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), or for developmental and learning difficulties, you've come to the right place. Our psychologists are trained and passionate about assessing ASD and ADHD, and developmental disorders ensuring you receive expert care.
For those who need a diagnosis and report to access NDIS funding, our team can provide comprehensive reports overseen by experienced Registered Psychologists. We guarantee a high-quality diagnostic report with recommendations tailored to your specific needs and context. Our reports are not generated by online software; they are written and reviewed collaboratively by our team.
Here are some of the assessment services we offer:
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Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) assessment
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Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) assessment
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Psychometric testing for intellectual and academic achievement evaluation
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Developmental Assessments
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Giftedness Assessments
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Specific learning disorder assessments, including dyslexia
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Vocational Assessment and Career Guidance
If you want to learn more about each of these assessments and how they can benefit you or your child, feel free to explore our website further.
We are committed to providing high quality assessments and personalised recommendations. Get in touch with us today to begin your journey towards better understanding and support.
Assessment cost and process
What does the assessment cost?
Autism assessment
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Assessment Intake Interview - $245
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Full standard autism assessment: $2450 (minus intake interview cost)
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Additional assessment: to be discussed and quoted if needed
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Feedback session and report review: $245
ADHD Assessment
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Assessment Intake Interview - $245
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Full standard ADHD assessment: $1470 (minus intake interview cost)
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Additional assessment: to be discussed and quoted if needed
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Feedback session and report review: $245
Cognitive Assessment
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Assessment Intake Interview - $245
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Full standard cognitive assessment: $1225 (minus intake interview cost)
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Additional assessment: to be discussed and quoted if needed
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Feedback session and report review: $245
What does the assessment process involve?
We always start with an assessment intake interview. This is the cost of a regular therapy session and is useful in guiding whether or not full assessment should be pursued. It isn't a formal assessment, but a thorough discussion on what the process involves and determining is the assessment process is right for you. If you go ahead with assessment, the information gathered in this sessions will form an important part of that assessment.
Autism assessment
Intake: This will be done by our client intake team, who will collect any relevant data and previous reports or referral information.
Assessment intake interview: This includes a full history and any relevant screeners administered by an experienced psychologist. No report writing is provided after this session. However, recommendation about what type of assessment or therapy will be given. This cost will be deducted from the assessment cost if you proceed.
Assessment sessions: A client assessment (in-person, 1 hour), parent/carer interview (in person or telehealth, 3 hours) and adaptive behaviour assessment will be administered.
Comprehensive report: Your assessments will be scored and consulted on by our assessment team, and a detailed diagnostic report will be produced. A diagnosis will be ruled in or out, and your report will include several recommendations. This report will be produced within 6 weeks of your final assessment session.
Additional assessment requested by client: If you request additional assessment to those listed above, we can discuss these during intake and quote as needed.
Feedback session: After receipt of your report we can schedule a 30-minute feedback session to provide a summary and answer any questions you may have, and make any changes required to your report, within our clinical judgement.
ADHD Assessment
Intake: This will be done by our client intake team, who will collect any relevant data and previous reports or referral information.
Assessment intake interview: This includes a full history and any relevant screeners administered by an experienced psychologist. No report writing is provided after this session. However, recommendation about what type of assessment or therapy will be given. This cost will be deducted from the assessment cost if you proceed.
Assessment sessions: A client assessment (in-person, 2 hours), client or partner/carer interview (in person or telehealth, 1 hours) will be administered.
Comprehensive report: Your assessments will be scored and consulted on by our assessment team, and a detailed diagnostic report will be produced. A diagnosis will be ruled in or out, and your report will include several recommendations. This report will be produced within 6 weeks of your final assessment session.
Additional assessment requested by client: If you request additional assessment to those listed above, we can discuss these during intake and quote as needed.
Feedback session: After receipt of your report we can schedule a 30 minute feedback session to provide a summary and answer any questions you may have, and make any changes required to your report, within our clinical judgement.
Cognitive Assessment
Intake: This will be done by our client intake team, who will collect any relevant data and previous reports or referral information.
Assessment intake interview: This includes a full history and any relevant screeners administered by an experienced psychologist. No report writing is provided after this session. However, recommendation about what type of assessment or therapy will be given. This cost will be deducted from the assessment cost if you proceed.
Assessment sessions: A client cognitive assessment (in-person, 2 hours), and parent/carer or self assessment of adaptive functioning will be administered.
Comprehensive report: Your assessments will be scored and consulted on by our assessment team, and a detailed diagnostic report will be produced. A diagnosis will be ruled in or out, and your report will include several recommendations. This report will be produced within 6 weeks of your final assessment session.
Additional assessment requested by client: If you request additional assessment to those listed above (e.g., assessment with school or preschool), we can discuss these during intake and quote as needed.
Feedback session: After receipt of your report we can schedule a 30 minute feedback session to provide a summary and answer any questions you may have, and make any changes required to your report, within our clinical judgement.
Autism Spectrum Disorders
Autism is a developmental condition that is typically life-long. People with autism experience difficulties with communication, social interaction and restricted/repetitive interests and behaviours. These are often accompanied by sensory issues and behavioural rigidity. All of these difficulties may lead to behavioural challenges in some children, adolescents and adults who meet criteria for a diagnosis.
The word “spectrum” in autism spectrum disorder refers to the idea that autism presents differently in every single person. People with autism have a broad presentation, with a range of challenges as well as abilities.
At Blueprint Psychology, we are trained to administer, score, diagnose and report on autism spectrum disorder, using standardised assessment tools, collection of background information and the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5th Edition (DSM-5).
We use the following assessment tools
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Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2)
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Adaptive Behaviour Assessment System, Third Edition (ABAS-3)
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Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R)
In young children, we are looking for:
Social interaction and communication problems
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having little or no interest in sharing interests or emotions with other people
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having trouble with normal ‘back-and-forth’ conversation
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having difficulties using and understanding body language, such as waving or pointing, or facial expressions
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rarely engaging in ‘pretend’ play
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having difficulty making friends
Restricted and repetitive patterns of behaviours, interests or activities
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hand-flapping or toe-walking
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playing with toys in an unusual way (such as lining up cars or flipping objects)
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speaking in an unusual way (such as using odd patterns of speech or ‘parroting’ scripts from favourite TV shows)
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needing a very predictable routine and disliking change
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having unusually intense interests in topics or subjects
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being oversensitive or under sensitive to sounds, smells or touch
To receive an autism diagnosis a child must have difficulties in BOTH these areas AND these must be affecting their family life, social life and/or school life.
People on the autism spectrum are all very different, as they differ vastly in their intellectual and language ability, and of course each has their own personality that shines through. It is so important to identify their individual strengths and interests and those need to be celebrated and encouraged.
ADHD
ADHD is defined as the most common neurodevelopmental disorder. ADHD affects about one in twenty Australians (about 1 million people). It is characterised by symptoms of inattention, impulsivity, and in some cases hyperactivity. ADHD can have lifelong impacts on individuals and families. Diagnosis and quality treatment can improve individual outcomes substantially.
ADHD is diagnosed using criteria outlined in the 'Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition' (DSM-5) by the American Psychiatric Association. To be diagnosed with ADHD the symptoms of inattention and/or hyperactivity and impulsivity:
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need to be excessive for the developmental age of the individual
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need to be present before the age of 12
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must have persisted for longer than 6 months
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must contribute to impairment across multiple settings (home, school, childcare, work).
At Blueprint Psychology, we are trained to administer, score, diagnose and report on ADHD, using standardised assessment tools, collection of background information and the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5th Edition (DSM-5).
We use the following assessment tools
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Behaviour Assessment System for Children, Third Edition (BASC-3) - for children and adolescents
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Conners’ Adult ADHD Rating Scales–Self Report: Long Version (CAARS–S: L) - for adults
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Standardised Cognitive Assessment using the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Fourth Edition (WAIS-IV) or Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, Fifth Edition: Australian and New Zealand Standardised Edition (WISC-V) or Wechsler Preschool & Primary Scale of Intelligence - Fourth Edition Australian and New Zealand Standardised Edition
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Review of school reports, and collection of background information through clinical interview.
Cognitive Assessment
At Blueprint Psychology our psychologists have extensive experience and training administering cognitive assessments. These assessments are useful in assessing for giftedness, intellectual disabilities, specific learning disorders or ADHD (see our ADHD assessment information).
Intellectual disability involves impairments of general mental abilities that impact adaptive functioning in three domains, or areas. These domains determine how well an individual copes with everyday tasks:
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The conceptual domain includes skills in language, reading, writing, math, reasoning, knowledge, and memory.
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The social domain refers to empathy, social judgment, interpersonal communication skills, the ability to make and retain friendships, and similar capacities.
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The practical domain centres on self-management in areas such as personal care, job responsibilities, money management, recreation, and organisng school and work tasks.
Intellectual disability is a lifelong condition that affects a person’s intellectual skills and their behaviour in different situations. It can include difficulties in communication, memory, understanding, problem solving, self-care, social and emotional skills and physical skills.
Intellectual disability can be diagnosed in children and adults using:
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an IQ test using the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Fourth Edition (WAIS-IV) or Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, Fifth Edition: Australian and New Zealand Standardised Edition (WISC-V) or Wechsler Preschool & Primary Scale of Intelligence - Fourth Edition Australian and New Zealand Standardised Edition
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an Adaptive Behaviour Test
It is usually diagnosed in early childhood and may be suspected if a child is developing slower than other children.
A diagnosis can help people access government services like the NDIS and the Disability Support Pension.
Formal cognitive assessments can be used to assess for giftedness or gifted program admissions. Some parents notice qualities of giftedness in their child and want to have these explored further (qualities such as excellent problem solving, abstract reasoning, curiosity, vivid imagination and sensitivity). Boredom in the classroom and underachievement are also concerns parents feel warrant assessment. Often very bright children underachieve in order to fit in with their peers. It is helpful to identify giftedness as soon as possible so that a child's environment can be adapted successfully to best fit their ability.
Specific Learning Disorder
Specific Learning Disorder (also known as learning disorder or learning disability) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that begins during school-age, but may not be recognized until adulthood. Learning disorders affect one of three areas: reading, writing and/or mathematics.
A Specific Learning Disorder in reading (Dyslexia) refers to difficulty with reading, connecting letters they see on a page with the sounds they make. As a result, reading becomes a slow, effortful and not a fluent process for them.
Problems in reading begin even before learning to read. Kindergarten-age children may not be able to recognize and write letters as well as their peers. People with dyslexia may have difficulty with accuracy and spelling as well. Common myths include thinking that children with dyslexia write letters backwards or those who write letters backwards all have dyslexia. Individuals with dyslexia may try to avoid activities that require reading whenever they can (e.g. - reading for pleasure, reading instructions). They may often gravitate to other mediums of expression such as pictures, video, or audio.
Specific Learning Disorder in writing (Dysgraphia) is used to describe difficulties with putting one’s thoughts on to paper. Problems with writing can include difficulties with spelling, grammar, punctuation, and handwriting.
Specific Learning Disorder in mathematics (Dyscalculia) describes difficulties learning number related concepts or using the symbols and functions to perform mathematical calculations. Problems with mathematics can include difficulties with number sense, memorizing mathematical facts, mathematical calculations, mathematical reasoning and mathematical problem solving.
Specific Learning Disorder can be diagnosed in children and adolescents using:
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an IQ test using the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Fourth Edition (WAIS-IV) or Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, Fifth Edition: Australian and New Zealand Standardised Edition (WISC-V) or Wechsler Preschool & Primary Scale of Intelligence - Fourth Edition Australian and New Zealand Standardised Edition
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Wechsler Individual Achievement Test – Third Edition (WIAT III)
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An adaptive behaviour tests
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Review of school reports, and collection of background information through clinical interview.
Vocational Assessment & Career Guidance
At Blueprint Psychology, we understand the significance of finding meaningful and fulfilling career paths that align with your unique strengths, interests, and aspirations. Our Vocational Assessment and Career Guidance services are designed to empower individuals across Australia in making informed decisions about their professional journeys.
What is Vocational Assessment?
Vocational Assessment is a comprehensive evaluation process that aims to identify your skills, aptitudes, interests, and personality traits. By using a range of standardised tools and personalised clinical interviews, we gain valuable insights into your potential career paths. This assessment helps you gain clarity on suitable career choices and empowers you to make informed decisions about your future.
How can Career Guidance Help?
Navigating the ever-evolving job market can be overwhelming, especially when you are uncertain about the best career direction to pursue. Our Career Guidance services provide personalized support, drawing from the results of your Vocational Assessment. Our psychologist will work collaboratively with you to explore various career options, assess their feasibility, and help you set realistic career goals. Whether you are a student, a recent graduate, or considering a career change, our guidance empowers you to develop a fulfilling and rewarding career plan.
Why Choose Blueprint Psychology for Vocational Assessment and Career Guidance?
Our team of dedicated psychologists has a wealth of experience in providing Vocational Assessment and Career Guidance services to individuals of all ages and backgrounds. We understand that career decisions significantly impact your overall wellbeing, and our goal is to help you discover a path that brings you satisfaction and success.
With a client-centred approach, we prioritise your unique needs and aspirations throughout the assessment and guidance process. We believe that everyone possesses untapped potential, and our we are here to assist you on a path of professional growth.
Discover your true vocational potential and embark on a purposeful career journey with the support of Blueprint Psychology. Take the first step toward a fulfilling career—schedule a Vocational Assessment and Career Guidance session today.