Multidisciplinary Autism Assessment

Multidisciplinary Autism Assessment 

Comprehensive Autism Diagnostic Assessment

A multi-disciplinary autism assessment is a comprehensive evaluation involving both a psychologist and an occupational therapist. It is conducted in line with Best Practice guidelines as well as HSE requirements, ensuring a thorough and evidence-based approach to assessing autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

This assessment examines a child’s social communication, behaviour, emotional regulation, adaptive functioning, and developmental profile, providing a detailed understanding of their strengths and challenges.

Consultation with a Psychologist 

Psycho-Educational Assessment 

Multidisciplinary Autism Assessment

    Who Can Benefit From Multidisciplinary Autism Assessment?

    Multidisciplinary Autism Assessment can make a significant difference for:

    Children and adolescents

    where autism is suspected to determine whether they meet the criteria for a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

    Parents and educators

    seeking a clear understanding of a child’s social communication and behavioural profile to support intervention planning.

    Families

    applying for educational and HSE supports. A formal autism diagnosis can help access specialised school placements, additional resources, and community supports.

    Clinicians and therapists

    requiring a multi-disciplinary assessment. To ensure a well-rounded evaluation of the child’s needs.

    What to Expect from a Multidisciplinary Autism Assessment

    Our Multidisciplinary Autism Assessment process is designed to be thorough, clear, and supportive for both the individual and their family:

    Pre-Assessment Information Gathering

    •  Parental Background Information – A detailed developmental and behavioural history.
    • Review of Existing Reports – Including any previous assessments, medical reports, or school-based evaluations.
    • Liaison with Preschool/School – To gather insights into the child’s social and learning experiences.

    Assessment Sessions

    1st Session (with Parents) – Structured Parent Interview

    • Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R) – A gold-standard, structured interview that gathers detailed information on a child’s social development, communication, and behaviours associated with autism.
    • Session duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

    2nd Session (with Child) – Developmental and Emotional Assessment

    • Cognitive (IQ) Assessment – If required, an evaluation of intellectual abilities.
    • Adaptive Functioning Assessment – Examines independence and daily living skills.
    • Social and Emotional Functioning Assessment – Evaluates emotional regulation and social interaction.
    • School Observation (if required) – Provides additional insight into the child’s behaviour and interactions in an educational setting (travel fee applies).

    3rd Session (with Child) – Play-Based Assessment

    • Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule – Second Edition (ADOS-2) – A structured, play-based assessment designed to observe communication, social interaction, and behaviours related to autism.
    • Co-Scoring by a Second Clinician – A second expert (psychologist or occupational therapist) is involved in the scoring process to ensure accuracy and reliability.

    Post-Assessment

    • Parental Feedback Appointment – Feedback is provided via an in-person meeting, Zoom, or phone call to discuss results and next steps.
    • Comprehensive Report – A detailed written report with diagnostic conclusions, recommendations, and supports for home, school, and community settings.

    Common Questions About Multidisciplinary Autism Assessment

    How long does the assessment process take?

    The direct assessment with the child takes place over two sessions (one for cognitive, emotional assessment, and one for ADOS-2). Additionally, a structured parent interview (ADI-R) is conducted. In total, the full assessment process is spread across multiple sessions over a period of weeks, with a comprehensive report provided approximately 3 weeks after all required information and forms have been received.

    Why is a multi-disciplinary approach important?

    A multi-disciplinary assessment ensures that a child’s development is evaluated from multiple perspectives. By involving both a psychologist and an occupational therapist, the assessment provides a more complete picture of the child’s strengths and challenges across different domains, ensuring a high standard of diagnostic accuracy.

    What types of tests are used in a multi-disciplinary autism assessment?

    The specific tests used depend on the child’s age, developmental level, and the reason for referral. All assessments are conducted in accordance with DSM-5 criteria for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to ensure a comprehensive, evidence-based evaluation.

    • Core Autism-Specific Assessments:
      • ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised) – A structured parent interview exploring autism-related behaviours.
      • ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule – Second Edition) – A play-based observational assessment assessing social communication and behaviour.
    • Cognitive Testing (if required):
      • WISC-V (Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children – Fifth Edition)
      • WAIS-IV (Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale – Fourth Edition)
      • WJ-V Cognitive (Woodcock-Johnson Tests of Cognitive Abilities – Fifth Edition)
      • SB5 (Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scales – Fifth Edition)
      • Battelle Developmental Inventory (Infant & Toddler Battery) – Used for assessing cognitive and developmental skills in very young children.
    • Adaptive Functioning Measures:
      • Vineland-3 (Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales – Third Edition)
      • ABAS-3 (Adaptive Behavior Assessment System – Third Edition)
    • Other Standardised Assessments:
      • Sensory Questionnaires – To assess sensory processing difficulties.
      • Emotional and Behavioural Questionnaires – To explore emotional regulation and mental health concerns.
      • Motor Skills Questionnaires – To identify difficulties with coordination and fine/gross motor skills.

    These assessments provide a comprehensive understanding of a child’s cognitive, adaptive, social, emotional, and sensory profile. All results are interpreted using DSM-5 criteria, ensuring a reliable and standardised diagnostic process.

    What are the benefits of a multi-disciplinary autism assessment?

    A multi-disciplinary assessment can:

    • Provide a formal autism diagnosis if the criteria are met.
    • Offer clear recommendations for educational and therapeutic support.
    • Support applications for HSE and Department of Education services.
    • Help parents and teachers better understand a child’s needs and strengths.

    Where does the assessment take place?

    Assessments are carried out at our Harold’s Cross, Dublin 6W office. A school observation can be arranged if necessary (additional fees apply for travel).

    When will I receive the report?

    We aim to provide a comprehensive written report within approximately 3 weeks of receiving all necessary information, including completed parental and school forms.

    Ready to Begin?

    Empower yourself or your child with a clearer understanding of cognitive strengths, challenges, or exceptional talents. Take the first step today.

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