Assessment
CAYA Psychology provides comprehensive diagnostic evaluations for children, adolescents and young adults with mental health, educational, and developmental concerns
Book an appointmentOur clinic’s assessments align with the Autism CRC’s guidelines, ensuring thorough, evidence-based evaluations using multidisciplinary approaches for accurate autism diagnoses and tailored support recommendations for every individual.
Assessment Services
Educational & Neurodevelopmental Assessment
Educational and neurodevelopmental assessments may provide valuable insights into a child or teenager’s learning and development.
These assessments can help identify strengths, challenges, and the underlying reasons for academic difficulties, such as trouble with reading, writing, or math. They are also beneficial in evaluating conditions like autism and ADHD, offering a clearer understanding of behaviors, communication, and attention-related challenges.
By identifying specific needs, these assessments can guide tailored support strategies at home, in school, and in therapy. This process can support better collaboration among parents, teachers, and specialists to address a child’s unique developmental profile and create an environment that fosters growth and learning.
Assessment Types
Cognitive (IQ) Assessment (6 years old +)
- Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
- Superior cognitive ability (cognitive/academic giftedness)
- Available for: Children | Adolescents | Adults
Educational Assessments
- Mathematics difficulties (Dyscalculia)
- Reading, writing, spelling difficulties (Dyslexia)
- Special Consideration for Unit 3 & 4 examinations
- Available for: Children | Adolescents | Adults
Developmental Assessments
- Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
- Autism Spectrum Disorders (incl. Asperger’s)
- Available for: Children | Adolescents | Adults
Tailored Assessments
Every assessment includes:
Review
Clinical History
Evidence-Based Assessment
Diagnostic Report
Next Steps Session
Child-friendly feedback
Frequently asked questions
No, you do not need a referral. You can make an appointment with a psychologist without a referral from your GP or a paediatrician/psychiatrist. If you decide to do this you will need to pay the full amount for your sessions out of your own pocket.
The length of assessment sessions can vary depending on the specific assessment being completed. Typically an intake session for an assessment is between 1.5-2 hours, and a testing session is between 1.5-2 hours. Your psychologist will explain to you how long your assessment session is expected to last prior to your appointment.
You will need to make an appointment with your Paediatrician or Psychiatrist who will assess whether you are eligible for a Complex neurodevelopmental disorder and disability services plan. This plan is available if you are under 25 years of age.
Click here to find out more about Fees and Rebates.
To be able to claim the Medicare rebate for your session you will need to bring a copy of your referral to your first appointment with your psychologist.
Psychologists are health professionals who work in a range of areas including clinical, health, neuropsychology, sports, forensic, organisational and community settings. To become a fully registered psychologist you must undertake an undergraduate degree, an Honours degree and and at least two years of supervised training and further education in the field of psychology (either a Masters or Doctorate degree).
Psychologists assist people with everyday concerns such as stress and relationship difficulties, as well as mental health issues. Psychologists use “talk therapies” to help people to develop skills to cope with difficulties and to prevent on-going issues. There are a large number of research studies supporting the effectiveness of psychological therapy.
Psychiatrists have completed a medical degree and further training and study related to the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness. Psychiatrists specialise in the medical treatment of mental illness and can prescribe medication. Some psychiatrists combine medication with therapy.
To help their child feel comfortable during a psychological assessment, parents should explain the process in simple, reassuring terms, emphasizing that it’s to understand and support them better. Use child-friendly language, avoiding words like “test” and instead saying “activities” or “games.” Reassure the child that they are not in trouble and encourage curiosity by addressing any concerns they may have. If available, show pictures of the psychologist and the clinic room from the website to help the child feel familiar with the environment beforehand. Additionally, suggest that your child bring a favorite toy or keepsake that helps them feel safe and at ease.
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) may fund developmental assessments and reports that support a formal diagnosis for neurodevelopmental conditions. Speak to your Plan Manager or Support Coordinator to find out if you are eligible.