Seeking an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) assessment for a child can feel overwhelming, both emotionally and logistically. The goal is to ensure that families feel supported, informed, and confident in the process from the very first appointment.

To provide the most comprehensive and evidence-based diagnostic evaluation, our psychologists utilise a structured assessment framework. Transparency regarding the process and the associated investment is a cornerstone of our practice.

The Assessment Pathway

The diagnostic process is designed to capture a holistic view of a child’s behaviour, cognition, and learning.

While every child’s needs are unique, the standard pathway typically includes:

• Initial Consultation: The process begins with a 90 minute session with parents only to discuss concerns, history and goals. At this appointment costs are outlined and you can make the decision whether or not to proceed. The cost of this appointment is $325.
• Clinical Observation: If you do decide to proceed, a 90 minute school observation and teacher consultation at the child’s school helps understand how they function in their learning environment. Cost is $325 + a small travel fee.
• Gold-Standard Diagnostic Tools: CK Health utilises the ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised) and the ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule) to gather essential clinical data. Both tools map directly to current DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for autism. They have decades of empirical validation and are supported by peer-reviewed research demonstrating their diagnostic accuracy. The ADOS-2 has sensitivity around 90-95% and specificity around 95-97% for autism. The ADI-R appointment is 3 hours and the ADOS-2 appointment is 2 hours. The ADI-R cost is $645 and the ADOS-2 is $430.
• Consultation with other professionals: We utilise a multidisciplinary team, such as paediatricians, GPs, psychologists, speech pathologists, and occupational therapists. This ensures that the autism assessment captures the child’s strengths and difficulties. We can then provide a clear, actionable plan that supports their development and success for years to come. Cost is $220/hr pro rata.
• Supplementary Assessments: Depending on clinical necessity, additional behavioural and psychological tools such as the Vineland-3, Conners-4, ASEBA, or BRIEF-2 , may be incorporated. This is done to assess adaptive behaviour, executive functioning, and emotional regulation.

Synthesis and Feedback:

The process concludes with a 90 minute assessment findings appointment which costs $325. In this appointment results are reviewed together, followed by the delivery of a formal, comprehensive report (optional) costing $1300.

This report may be utilised to support NDIS eligibility and accessing additional School support. This also gives parents answers and validation regarding their child. GPs and Paediatricians use the report to refer to speech pathologists, occupational therapists, or other specialists.

Commitment to Flexibility

The financial commitment of a thorough diagnostic assessment is significant. The goal is to make this process as accessible as possible:

Tailored Assessments: Psychological checklists are only utilised when clinically necessary to ensure the assessment is both thorough and cost-effective.

Flexible Scheduling: The assessment process can be paced to suit the family’s budget.

Payment Options: The ability to pay invoices gradually is offered. Provided that full payment is settled prior to the final delivery of services. A 50% deposit is required for the formal report, with the balance due upon completion.

About Lisa Bailey our Autism Assessment Psychologist

Lisa is a Child & Adolescent Psychologist with over 10 years of experience. Prior to becoming a psychologist, she worked as a School Counsellor with the NSW Department of Education. Before that she was a High School Mathematics Teacher for 14 years. With such extensive background knowledge and experience, Lisa has developed a practice built on the belief that a diagnostic evaluation should be a collaborative journey.

This outline serves as a guide. But flexibility remains central to ensuring the process is responsive to each child’s specific needs. Families with questions about the steps involved or the associated costs are encouraged to reach out, so a plan that works for their family can be discussed. 

Contact CK Health on 02) 4077 3803 to find out more or book an appointment to see our child Psychologist and Autism assessor Lisa Bailey here.