Autism Spectrum Disorder Assessments at The Three Seas
Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and the Importance of Assessment
At The Three Seas Psychology, we provide comprehensive Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) assessments led by our experienced psychologist, Narisa Vormwald. With a focus on delivering personalised, professional care, our assessments are designed to help individuals gain clarity and understanding of their needs.
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that affects communication, behaviour, and social interactions. Individuals with ASD may face difficulties in understanding social cues, forming relationships, and navigating day-to-day tasks. The term “spectrum” highlights that autism affects individuals differently; while some people may have significant challenges, others may have milder symptoms or strengths in certain areas, like memory or attention to detail.
ASD is not limited to children; it can affect individuals of all ages. Early signs of autism in children often include delayed speech, repetitive behaviours, or difficulty in understanding social interactions. In adults, the signs may be subtler, such as difficulty maintaining relationships, challenges with employment, or struggling with unspoken social rules.
What’s the Difference between Child and Adult Autism?
While autism is a lifelong condition, it can present differently in children compared to adults. In children, autism is often identified through developmental milestones, such as delayed speech, limited eye contact, and repetitive play. Paediatricians or teachers may be the first to notice signs that prompt further evaluation.
In adults, autism may have been undiagnosed during childhood, particularly for those who have learned to mask their symptoms. For adults, the struggles may center around maintaining relationships, handling social anxiety, or navigating work environments. Many adults with ASD have found ways to cope or adapt, but an official diagnosis can help them understand their unique challenges and identify support options.
How is ASD Diagnosed?
An Autism Spectrum Disorder assessment is a comprehensive evaluation conducted by a trained psychologist. At The Three Seas Psychology, our assessments include a range of tests, interviews, and observations to determine if an individual meets the criteria for a diagnosis of autism. This involves exploring the person’s developmental history, current behaviours, and how they function in different areas of life, such as school, work, or relationships.
The assessment process with Narisa Vormwald takes about four hours and includes:
- A thorough evaluation of communication, social skills, and behavioural patterns.
- A detailed report summarising the findings, typically delivered within two weeks.
- A 30-minute Telehealth session to review the results and discuss next steps.
Why is an ASD Assessment Beneficial?
An ASD diagnosis can provide significant benefits for both children and adults. For many, receiving an accurate diagnosis is a relief, bringing clarity to long-standing questions or confusion about their behaviours and experiences. Knowing that you or your loved one is on the autism spectrum can:
- Help inform personalised support strategies.
- Unlock access to services and accommodations in educational or workplace settings.
- Improve self-awareness and understanding, leading to better coping mechanisms.
For parents, an early ASD diagnosis can lead to targeted interventions that support their child’s development. For adults, it can help improve their quality of life, offering validation and the chance to access tailored therapy or support networks.
The Structure of the ASD Assessment
Our ASD assessment, led by Narisa Vormwald, is thorough and designed to capture a complete understanding of the individual. The process typically includes:
- A 4-hour assessment session (with a 1-hour break), where Narisa evaluates communication, social skills, and behavioural patterns.
- A detailed report outlining the findings, which can be used for educational or workplace accommodations or supporting NDIS applications.
- A follow-up Telehealth session to discuss the results and provide guidance on next steps.
We recognise that the input of loved ones can provide valuable context to the assessment. With your consent, Narisa may involve family members or close friends in the process.
Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) through a comprehensive assessment can provide valuable insights, whether for yourself or a loved one. It helps to clarify unique strengths and challenges, enabling more informed decisions about support and strategies. At The Three Seas Psychology, we believe that understanding is the first step toward meaningful growth, and an ASD assessment is a key part of that journey. With the right information, individuals and families can move forward with greater confidence and clarity.
