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Providing Comprehensive and Neurodivergence-affirming Learning
and Developmental Assessments for
Children and Adolescents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Please note: The waitlist for new patients is currently closed until October 2025 due to high demand and clinician leave. If you would like to place your child on the waitlist for October 2025 please email us at hello@childassessmentclinic.com.au
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Does my child need an assessment?Getting an assessment for your child is a personal choice. An assessment can help better understand your child's thinking and point of view. Sometimes a doctor or therapist might recommend an assessment to get a better understanding of your child and provide evidence-based intervention. Sometimes an assessment can lead to a diagnosis which will give your child access to services that may help them such as LifeStart, NDIS, School programs and support classes. It is important to remember that the outcome of the assessment is 100% confidential and the report and recommendations are yours to share with anyone you choose. If you are unsure about whether an assessment is appropriate for your child at this time, we encourage you to reach out on 0405 968 711 for an obligation-free chat with our team to discuss your concerns.
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Can your reports be used for NDIS funding?Yes! Our assessments are conducted by Clinical Psychologists, which means that our reports and diagnoses are accepted by the NDIS for the purposes of funding.
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What does an assessment involve?Every assessment is different just as every child is different! Most assessments will include a specific assessment with your child, a clinical interview with the caregivers as well as feedback from the child's preschool or school. More information about the assessments that we offer can be found on the Services section of our website.
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How do I know what assessment my child needs?Once you make contact with us, we will ask you to fill out a basic form about your concerns for your child. After that, we will take the time to speak with you over the phone to discuss what assessment may be best for your child at this time.
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How do I make an appointment?To make an appointment please send us an email at hello@childassessmentclinic.com.au with your enquiry and contact details and we will be in contact with appointment options. Alternatively call us on 0405 968 711.
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Where are your clinics located?Our clinics are located in Kogarah (near St George Hospital). Our clinic address can be found under the Contact Us tab
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Are there Medicare rebates available for assessments?A Medicare rebate can be claimed for the Comprehensive Autism Assessment with a valid paediatrician Medicare 135 referral (Helping Children with Autism). Unfortunately there are no Medicare rebates for other assessment types.
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What is Neurodivergence affirming practice (NDA)?Neurodivergence-affirming practice is the idea that individuals have differences in how they interact with the world around them and that these differences do not need to be 'fixed' but rather understood, supported and celebrated. At Child Assessment Clinic we are neurodivergence-affirming in all that we do. That means that we do not treat Autism, AD/HD and other neurodevelopmental differences as disorders or disabilities but instead we consider them to be natural divergences in human nature.
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Do you diagnose PDA?PDA (pervasive drive for autonomy) is an emerging profile associated with autism spectrum. PDA is not a standalone diagnosis but it is instead considered to be a profile associated with Autism Spectrum. Individuals presenting with a PDA profile may avoid everyday demands and expectations to an extreme extent. This is underpinned by significant anxiety. Our clinicians are PDA-aware in their assessments and support the use of a PDA behaviour profile where it is appropriate.
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Do I need a referral?No, a referral is not needed to book in for an assessment.
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What is masking?“Masking” refers to when an individual hides or suppresses symptoms, behaviors, or difficulties they are experiencing. This is often seen in individuals with Autism and ADHD and can be more common in girls and women. Neurodivergent individuals tend to mask their inherent feelings and personality to make others feel comfortable or to 'fit in'. Research shows that masking is emotionally draining, frustrating and leads to heightened anxiety and associated mental health difficulties.
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