Autism Assessment Melbourne
Whether you are seeking an autism assessment for yourself or someone you love, or looking for support after a recent diagnosis, The Talk Shop is here to help. Our Melbourne psychologists take a neurodiversity-affirming approach — recognising autism as a different way of experiencing the world, not a problem to be fixed.
We offer comprehensive autism assessments and tailored psychological support across four clinic locations and via Telehealth (Online).
NDIS, WorkCover or TAC approved? YOU PAY NOTHING.
If your claim has been approved, we bill your funder directly. Zero out-of-pocket cost — no gap, no upfront payment, nothing.
What Is Autism?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) — also referred to as autism, or by many autistic people simply as being autistic — is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by differences in social communication, sensory processing, and patterns of thinking and behaviour. The word spectrum reflects the wide diversity of autistic experiences: no two autistic people are alike.
Autism is not a disease, and it does not need to be cured. Many autistic people lead rich, fulfilling lives and regard their autism as a core part of their identity. At the same time, autistic people are significantly more likely to experience co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and sensory processing difficulties — and professional support can make a meaningful difference to quality of life.
Autism is diagnosed using criteria from the DSM-5. Common features that may prompt an assessment include:
- Differences in reading social cues, facial expressions, or unspoken rules
- Preferring direct, literal communication
- Sensory sensitivities — to sound, light, texture, smell, or touch
- Strong, focused interests in specific topics or activities
- A preference for routines, predictability, and structure
- Feeling different from peers, or masking extensively in social situations
- Difficulty with transitions or unexpected changes
- Emotional regulation challenges, including meltdowns or shutdowns
Late Diagnosis, Masking, and the Rise of Adult Assessments
Historically, autism was identified primarily in children — and predominantly in boys. As understanding has grown, it is now well established that many autistic people, particularly women, girls, and non-binary individuals, were missed by earlier diagnostic criteria that did not capture the full range of autistic presentations.
Masking — the process of consciously or unconsciously suppressing autistic traits to fit in with neurotypical expectations — is particularly common among autistic women and girls. Masking can be exhausting and is associated with significantly higher rates of anxiety, depression, and burnout (Cage & Troxell-Whitman, 2019).
Many adults seeking assessment today spent decades feeling different without knowing why — struggling in social situations, experiencing sensory overwhelm, or burning out from the effort of appearing neurotypical.
A late diagnosis does not diminish its validity. For many people, it brings profound relief, self-understanding, and access to support they were previously denied.
You Are Not Alone
Approximately 1 in 40 Australians is autistic — around 2.5% of the population.
Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2022
According to the ABS Survey of Disability, Ageing and Carers (2022), an estimated 673,000 Australians are autistic. Autism diagnoses have increased significantly over the past two decades — not because autism is becoming more common, but because diagnostic criteria and community awareness have improved.
Autistic people are also more likely to experience mental health difficulties: research suggests up to 79% of autistic adults experience clinically significant anxiety at some point in their lives (van Steensel et al., 2011). Depression, burnout, and trauma are also disproportionately common.
If you have spent your life feeling like you do not quite fit — you are not alone. And support is available.
What Does an Autism Assessment Involve?
A comprehensive autism assessment at The Talk Shop involves a thorough, individualised evaluation conducted by a registered psychologist with experience in autism. The process typically includes:
- A detailed clinical interview covering developmental history, current difficulties, and strengths
- Standardised autism-specific assessment tools (such as the ADOS-2 and ADI-R where indicated)
- Cognitive and adaptive functioning assessments as appropriate
- Collateral information from family members or partners where available and consented
- A comprehensive written report with findings, diagnosis where applicable, and recommendations
- A feedback session to discuss results and next steps
Assessment reports can be used to access NDIS funding, workplace or educational accommodations, and other support services. Our psychologists are experienced in writing reports that clearly communicate your needs.
Psychological Support for Autistic People
A diagnosis is the beginning, not the end. Many autistic people find that psychological support helps them understand themselves better, manage co-occurring conditions, and navigate a world that was not always designed with them in mind. Support is not about changing who you are — it is about building strategies that work for you.
Anxiety and Emotional Regulation
Anxiety is one of the most common reasons autistic people seek psychological support. Our psychologists use adapted CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based approaches to help manage anxiety in ways that are genuinely useful for autistic brains — including sensory-based strategies and concrete, practical tools.
Autism Burnout Recovery
Autistic burnout — a state of physical and mental exhaustion from prolonged masking and overload — is increasingly recognised in the research literature. Support focuses on identifying burnout triggers, reducing masking pressure, rebuilding capacity, and developing sustainable routines.
Social Communication and Relationships
Support with navigating social situations, relationships, and workplace dynamics — not by teaching autistic people to mask, but by developing self-understanding, communication strategies, and confidence in advocating for their own needs.
Co-occurring Conditions: ADHD, Depression, and Trauma
Many autistic people also have ADHD, depression, or a history of trauma. Our psychologists are experienced in working with complex presentations and can provide integrated support that takes the whole person into account.
All support is tailored to the individual. Your psychologist will work collaboratively with you to identify goals that are meaningful to you — not goals set by neurotypical standards.
What to Expect at The Talk Shop
Your first appointment is a 50-minute intake session. This is a chance to talk through what has brought you in — whether that is pursuing an assessment, seeking support after a recent diagnosis, or addressing a specific co-occurring difficulty. There is no pressure to have everything figured out before you arrive.
We aim to create a low-sensory, low-pressure environment. If you have specific sensory needs or communication preferences — such as preferring written communication, needing extra processing time, or wanting to know exactly what to expect — please let us know when booking and we will do our best to accommodate you.
We offer appointments in-clinic at our Mooroolbark, Wheelers Hill, Reservoir, and Melbourne CBD locations, as well as Telehealth sessions from anywhere in Australia. Telehealth is a popular option for many autistic clients who find it easier to engage from a familiar environment.
Funding Options — What Will You Pay?
NDIS, WorkCover or TAC approved? YOU PAY NOTHING.
If your claim has been approved, we bill your funder directly. Zero out-of-pocket cost — no gap, no upfront payment, nothing.
- NDIS plan-managed or self-managed — $0 out of pocket for assessments and therapy, we bill directly
- WorkCover approved — $0 out of pocket, we bill directly
- TAC claim approved — $0 out of pocket, we bill directly
- Medicare rebate (Mental Health Care Plan) — get medicare rebates same-day or next day (therapy sessions only, not assessment)
- Private Health Insurance — we provide an itemised invoice to help claim your extras benefit
- No funding / self-pay — affordable rates from $50 per session, no GP referral needed
Frequently Asked Questions
Can adults be diagnosed with autism?
Yes. There is no age limit for an autism assessment. Many adults are diagnosed for the first time in their 30s, 40s, 50s, or later. A late diagnosis is just as valid as an early one, and many people find it genuinely life-changing.
What is the difference between autism and ADHD?
Autism and ADHD are both neurodevelopmental conditions, and they frequently co-occur — research suggests around 50–70% of autistic people also have ADHD. They share some overlapping features but are distinct conditions. A comprehensive assessment can evaluate for both.
Do I need a GP referral for an autism assessment?
No GP referral is required to book an autism assessment with The Talk Shop. However, if you intend to use Medicare rebates for therapy sessions following your assessment, a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP will be needed.
Will an autism diagnosis affect my employment or insurance?
In Australia, you are not legally required to disclose a neurodevelopmental diagnosis to an employer unless it directly affects your ability to perform the job safely. We recommend speaking with a legal or HR professional if you have specific concerns about disclosure.
Is autism a disability?
Under Australian law, autism is recognised as a disability, which means autistic people may be entitled to reasonable adjustments in the workplace and education settings, as well as NDIS funding. Whether an individual identifies as disabled is a personal choice.
How long does an autism assessment take?
A comprehensive autism assessment typically involves 2–4 sessions over several weeks, plus time to prepare the written report. Your psychologist will give you a clearer timeline at your initial consultation.
Ready to Take the Next Step? Talk to a Melbourne Psychologist Today.
Whether you are seeking an assessment or support after diagnosis, we are here to help — on your terms.
Other Conditions We Help With
References
Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2022). Survey of disability, ageing and carers 2022. ABS. https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/health/disability/disability-ageing-and-carers-australia-summary-findings/latest-release
Cage, E., & Troxell-Whitman, Z. (2019). Understanding the reasons, contexts and costs of camouflaging for autistic adults. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 49(5), 1899–1911. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-018-03830-2
Lai, M. C., Lombardo, M. V., & Baron-Cohen, S. (2014). Autism. The Lancet, 383(9920), 896–910. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(13)61539-1
Raymaker, D. M., Teo, A. R., Steckler, N. A., Lentz, B., Scharer, M., Delos Santos, A., Kapp, S. K., Hunter, M., Joyce, A., & Nicolaidis, C. (2020). Having all of your internal resources exhausted beyond measure and being left with no clean-up crew: Defining autistic burnout. Autism in Adulthood, 2(2), 132–143. https://doi.org/10.1089/aut.2019.0079
van Steensel, F. J. A., Bogels, S. M., & Perrin, S. (2011). Anxiety disorders in children and adolescents with autistic spectrum disorders: A meta-analysis. Clinical Child and Family Psychology Review, 14(3), 302–317. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10567-011-0097-0