The term “spectrum” is used to emphasise that autism presents differently in every single person. There can be great variation in the way people learn, think and problem-solve. Everyone will have their own unique interests, strengths, skills, and challenges and will need varying levels of support with study, work, and relationships.
At Solasta, we offer comprehensive support for children and young people with ASD and their families. Our services include autism assessments in Adelaide, as well as intervention and support tailored to individual needs, including speech pathology and psychology.
Causes of ASD
While the exact cause of ASD remains unknown, research suggests a combination of genetic, developmental, and environmental factors. It is important to note that autism is not caused by bad parenting, vaccinations, or specific diets.
The importance of early identification
Early identification of ASD is crucial for accessing appropriate interventions and accommodations that can support children’s development and quality of life. Recognising early signs of ASD allows for timely implementation of strategies that support development in communication, social skills, and adaptive behaviours.
Early warning signs may include:
- Delayed language development
- Limited pointing and gesturing
- Not consistently using eye contact to direct attention
- Reduced interest in playing with other children
- Unusual play behaviors
- Over- or under-sensitivity to sensory experiences
Our ASD assessment process
A diagnosis can help in providing validation about concerns and clarity about your child’s needs. The diagnostic process helps develop a support plan tailored to your child.
Diagnosing autism involves observing and interacting with your child, alongside gathering developmental, health, and behavioural information.
At Solasta, our autism assessments usually occur over 2.5 – 3 hours and involves the following process:
- Review of background information: We review any written referrals and the preliminary information gathered through questionnaires completed by parents/carers and teachers/childcare staff.
- Parent interview: We conduct comprehensive interviews with parents to obtain a developmental history, identify their concerns and gather information and examples relevant to the diagnostic criteria.
- Formal assessment: Depending on the primary concerns and individual needs of the child, a formal assessment of the child’s cognitive or language skills may be undertaken. This provides important information that helps us understand the child’s needs and helps with making a differential or additional diagnosis.
- Observations and interactions: Assessments take place in a child-friendly space with games and toys. Our skilled clinicians will engage in a range of play activities and conversations with the child to enable them to observe specific behaviours that indicate ASD.
- Additional observations: In some instances, observations in other settings, such as school are needed which will occur on a separate occasion.
The interactions and observations made during the autism assessment, developmental history, plus information gathered during the referral process are reviewed using the criteria from the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders). A diagnosis is based on two key domains:
- Social communication and social interaction, and
- Repetitive or restricted behaviours, interests, or activities
Our clinicians will assess the information they have obtained from all the above sources and consider this against each of the diagnostic criteria.
Wherever possible, parents will be given feedback on the day about the outcome of the assessment and the clinicians will discuss their recommendations for intervention and supports.
Post-assessment
Following the autism assessment, you will receive a detailed report outlining the findings and diagnosis. With permission, this report can also be shared with other healthcare professionals involved in your child’s care.
Ready to get started?
For more information about our ASD assessment services in Adelaide, get in touch with our team. Call us on 1800 943 043 or email info@solasta.net.au.
Together, we can support your child in reaching their full potential.
To request an autism assessment near you, at one of our locations, use the link below –