GROW Clinical Psychology- Autism Assessment Clinic 

Autism Assessment Services 

At GROW Clinical Psychology, we provide comprehensive, neuroaffirming autism assessments for children, adolescents and adults in Melbourne.

Our assessments are designed to support understanding, not labelling. We aim to provide clarity around a child’s strengths, differences, and support needs in a respectful and affirming way.

We understand that seeking an autism assessment can feel overwhelming for families. Our team provides a supportive, transparent, and collaborative process from start to finish.

Our Autism Assessment Approach

We use gold-standard, evidence-based diagnostic tools within a neuroaffirming framework, including:

• Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2)

• Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R)

• Monteiro Interview Guidelines for Diagnosing the Autism Spectrum (MIGDAS)

We combine these tools with:

• Clinical interviews with parents/carers

• Developmental and behavioural history

• School and teacher input (where appropriate)

• Observation across settings and contexts

This ensures a comprehensive understanding of your child’s communication style, sensory profile, social interaction, and developmental presentation.

What an Autism Assessment Can Help With

An autism assessment can provide clarity and support in areas such as:

• Social communication differences

• Sensory sensitivities (sound, touch, movement, routines)

• Emotional regulation challenges

• Anxiety and overwhelm in social or school settings

• Differences in play, interests, or flexibility

• School-related challenges or masking behaviours

• Understanding neurodivergent identity

A diagnosis is not the goal on its own — the goal is understanding your child better so the right supports can be put in place.

Signs Your Child May Benefit From an Autism Assessment

You may consider an assessment if you notice patterns such as:

• Difficulty with social communication or friendships

• Preference for routines and distress with change

• Strong or intense interests

• Sensory sensitivities or sensory seeking behaviours

• Emotional overwhelm or shutdowns/meltdowns

• Challenges in group settings or school environments

• Masking or “coping” behaviours that seem exhausting

• Delayed or atypical developmental milestones

These traits can present differently in each child, particularly in girls and children who mask their differences.

Our Neuroaffirming Approach

At GROW Clinical Psychology, we take a neuroaffirming approach to assessment, meaning we:

• Recognise autism as a natural variation in neurodevelopment

• Focus on strengths as well as support needs

• Avoid pathologising or deficit-based language

• Support identity, self-understanding, and wellbeing

• Work closely with families to reduce stress and confusion

We aim to ensure children feel understood — not “fixed”.

What You Receive After the Assessment

Following the assessment, families receive:

• A comprehensive written report

• Diagnostic feedback and explanation (if applicable)

• Practical recommendations for home and school

• Strategies to support emotional regulation and learning

• Guidance for NDIS and school supports (if relevant)

We also provide time for feedback and discussion so families leave feeling informed and supported.

When to Seek an Autism Assessment

If you are unsure whether your child may be autistic, an assessment can be helpful when:

• Concerns have been present over time

• Differences are impacting school, friendships, or emotional wellbeing

• You are seeking clarity for support planning

• Your child is masking or struggling internally despite coping externally

Early understanding can make a meaningful difference in a child’s long-term wellbeing and self-esteem.

Book an Autism Assessment

If you are looking for a child autism assessment in Melbourne, our team at GROW is here to support you with a respectful, neuroaffirming, and evidence-based process.

We welcome referrals from parents, GPs, and paediatricians.

Contact us today to enquire or book an initial consultation.