Autism assessment
Autism assessments for children and teenagers, alongside your paediatrician.
I'm trained in the ADOS-2, the standardised observation used in multidisciplinary autism diagnosis. If your paediatrician has asked for one, or you're wondering whether to, this page explains what happens.
How it works
Four steps, one clear report.
No part of this is a test your child can fail. It's a structured way of observing how they communicate and interact, so the people making the diagnosis have good information.
-
01
Get in touch
Often your paediatrician has suggested an ADOS-2. Sometimes you're the one asking the question. Either is a fine place to start: book a call and I'll explain how the process works for your child.
-
02
Parent conversation and the ADOS-2 session
I'll talk with you first about what you've noticed and any history. The ADOS-2 itself is a structured, play- or conversation-based session with your child, usually 60 to 90 minutes.
-
03
Scoring and written report
The session is scored against the standardised ADOS-2 criteria and written up as a detailed report, including observations of communication and social interaction in plain language.
-
04
Your paediatrician completes the picture
ADOS-2 is one piece of a multidisciplinary assessment. The report goes to your paediatrician, who brings it together with their own assessment to reach a diagnostic formulation.
Fee
One fixed fee. Nothing added later.
Autism assessment (ADOS-2)
$900 fixed
All inclusive: assessment session, scoring, and written report.
Book a free 10-min callWhat's included
- Parent interview and developmental history
- The ADOS-2 assessment session with your child
- Standardised scoring
- Detailed written report for your paediatrician and for you
- Liaison with your paediatrician where useful
Funding varies by situation. NDIS self-managed and plan-managed clients are welcome, and some families use private health extras. If you're unsure what applies to you, ask on the call and I'll point you in the right direction. More on funding.
Good to know
Straight answers to the questions parents ask.
Can a speech pathologist diagnose autism?
Not alone, and I won't pretend otherwise. The ADOS-2 contributes to a diagnosis that your paediatrician leads. My job is to make that piece rigorous and useful.
What if my child doesn't talk much?
The ADOS-2 has different modules for different ages and language levels, from very few words through to fluent teenagers. The session is matched to your child.
What if the answer is "not autism"?
Then you still leave with a clear picture of how your child communicates, and a sensible view on whether language, literacy, or social communication support would help.
Paediatricians and GPs: referrals are welcome. Email gabiolenskislp@gmail.com with the referral and I'll be in touch with the family directly.
Let's talk
Been asked to arrange an ADOS-2?
Book a free 10-minute call. I'll explain the process for your child's age and what your paediatrician will need.