Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a pervasive developmental disorder characterised by impairments in social communication, as well as restricted or repetitive patterns of behaviour,
interests and activities

shy boy with baseball cap on
boy pointing to words in a book
young boy playing with lego

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a pervasive developmental disorder characterised by impairments in social communication, as well as restricted or repetitive patterns of behaviour, interests and activities. There are also often significant difficulties in the processing of sensory information. These complex and unique behaviours can vary in their manifestation but are representative of the particular diagnostic criteria.

ASD is a lifelong condition. The cause of ASD is currently not known but there is evidence to suggest that genetics play an important role in the cause of ASD. The behaviours and difficulties associated with ASD may be evident very early in an individual’s development, however the stage at which functional impairment becomes obvious can vary. No two individuals with ASD are alike. The behaviours associated with ASD can vary within individuals as they grow and develop and respond to various situations and environments in their daily lives.

Does my child need an assessment?

The following signs could be indicators of ASD which may impact your child’s behaviour and development. No single indicator typically signals ASD, instead a child would present with a number of the following indicators.

Communication:

  • Lack of early gestures such as waving and pointing

  • Lack of response to own name / selective hearing (e.g. responding to environmental sounds but often ignoring speech)

  • Regression in speech and language (e.g. loss of previously used words)

  • Speech absent at 18 months and no use of phrases by 24 months

  • Unusual language patterns (e.g. repetitive speech or jargon)

  • Lack of reciprocal communication

Behaviour:

  • Unusual patterns of behaviours (e.g. flapping hands, spinning, toe walking)

  • Unusual interests

  • Unexplained tantrums

  • Significant difficulties coping with change

  • Ritualised patterns of behaviour

Social / Play:

  • Decreased eye contact

  • Lack of reciprocal smile

  • Lack of interest in others / sharing interest with others

  • Often seeming to be in their ‘own world’ or aloof

  • Preference to playing alone / limited social play

  • Unusual patterns of behaviour in play (e.g. lining objects, categorising)

  • Play is limited to certain toys

  • Lack of imaginary play

Sensory:

  • Over or under reaction to sounds (e.g. afraid of everyday sounds / not responding to own name)

  • Preoccupation with moving or spinning objects

  • Aversion of certain textures or exploring environment through touch

  • Over / under reaction to pain

  • Use of peripheral vision to look at objects / observing or playing with toys on floor / table level

  • Mouthing objects or clothing

What is an Autism Spectrum Disorder Assessment?

In South Australia, a formal ASD diagnosis requires assessment by two accredited clinicians, which can be a psychologist, speech pathologist, psychiatrist or a paediatrician. Assessments can be conducted by a team of two clinicians in one setting or by two individual clinicians across different settings.

Assessments involve interactions with and observations of the child, as well as gathering information from all relevant and available sources about the child’s strengths and difficulties in areas of social communication as well as any restricted and repetitive behaviours, interests or activities. The information is then carefully considered in light of the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual – Fifth Edition (DSM-5).

The Assessment Process

A Team ASD Assessment is booked over two sessions. The assessment session typically takes approximately one hour. During this session one of the clinicians performs the parent/caregiver interview, and the other clinician observes the child during play. A feedback session is scheduled later in the day with the parent/caregiver, and usually takes approximately 30 minutes. During this session parents/caregivers will receive feedback about the assessment including a multidisciplinary report discussing the results and recommendations. An expanded comprehensive report may be provided upon request approximately 8-weeks following assessment.

A Single ASD assessment is booked over three sessions. The first assessment session takes up to one hour. During this session the clinician performs the parent/caregiver interview and gathers background information. The second assessment session also takes up to one hour. During this session the clinician observes the child during play. A feedback session is then scheduled with the parents/caregivers. During this session parents/caregivers receive feedback about the assessment and discuss the results and recommendations. A comprehensive report is then completed and issued to the family.

Why is seeking a diagnosis important?

Receiving a diagnosis of ASD provides a profile of an individual’s strengths and areas of development and helps individuals and their families better understand how they function and why they may experience certain difficulties or behaviours. A diagnosis can also allow access to supports and inform appropriate support services.

Meet the Diagnostic Team

  • Independent Consulting Psychologist
    ABN 29 592 237 255

    Qualifications: Bachelor of Psychology (Honours), Bachelor of Junior Primary and Primary Education

    Angela is a registered psychologist with extensive experience in the areas of education and developmental psychology. She has worked both in the private and public sectors in metropolitan, regional and rural areas.

    In her private practice, Angela specialises in the assessment, diagnosis and intervention of psychological conditions affecting children and adolescents and their families.

    Angela is also a registered teacher. Her knowledge of the curriculum and experience working in the school environment assists her in providing effective intervention and recommendations to assist children in achieving the best possible outcomes and maximising their potential. Her strong knowledge and understanding of the school system within South Australia enables her to confidently advocate for families.

    Helping children and families with: Anxiety disorders, Depressive disorders and adjustment disorders, School issues, such as bullying, performance anxiety and perfectionism, Toileting issues, Developing parenting skills, particularly for parents of children with a disability or challenging behaviours, Developing positive behaviour plans and proactive approaches to meltdowns, Assessment and intervention of Autism Spectrum Disorder, Psycho-educational Assessment

    Make an appointment:

    Adelaide Paediatrics Kensington Park
    360 Magill Road
    Kensington Park SA 5068
    T: 08 7123 6176

    Adelaide Paediatrics Mile End
    71 Henley Beach Road
    Mile End SA 5031
    T: 08 7123 6147

  • Independent Consulting Psychologist
    ABN

    Qualifications: Masters of Counselling (Psychology); Dip Clinical Hypnotherapy; Cert in Individual, Couple and Family Therapy; Masters Ed St (strm, Ed Psychology); Clinical Training in Child Centred Play Therapy

    Christine is a Registered Psychologist (MAPS) with over 20 years of experience in the areas of counselling, organisational psychology, educational & developmental psychology and working with individuals, families and young children, both in the private and public sectors.

    Christine completed her training at Flinders University and Monash University in Melbourne.

    She has worked with people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, people with disabilities and specialises in psycho educational assessments, working closely with young families in facilitating positive outcomes. Christine incorporates mindfulness, hypnotherapy, CBT, ACT and other psychological therapies and interventions to facilitate change and ameliorate difficulties.

    Her career pathway has given her the breadth and depth of understanding and knowledge to work with individuals and families in a variety of different settings and with different issues and difficulties. In her private practice, Christine consults at Adelaide Paediatrics Kensington Park location and uses a collaborative approach (team around the child), working with medical professionals (i.e. GP’s & Paediatricians) and other allied health professionals to provide a positive outcome for children and families.

    Christine has a holistic and culturally sensitive approach when working with individuals and is a strong advocate for families. Christine places strong emphasis on exploring a child’s developmental and emotional profile in order to gain a better understanding of their needs. Christine uses a strength based approach in order to assist children achieve their full potential.

    Helping children and families with: Psycho-educational Assessment; Family counselling and supporting parenting skills; Providing advocacy for young families in relation to school issues such as separation anxiety, behavioural problems and social issues; Working with child & adolescent disorders including, anxiety disorders; Autism Spectrum Disorders, adjustment disorders, ADHD, grief & separation, toileting issues, sleep, phobias and panic disorders; Working with parents of children with disabilities (GDD, Intellectual Disability) and their issues; Responses to trauma, including working with individuals with head injuries and neuro cognitive disorders

    Make an appointment:

    Adelaide Paediatrics Kensington Park
    360 Magill Road
    Kensington Park SA 5068
    T: 08 7123 6176

  • Independent Consulting Speech Pathologist
    ABN 58 549 233 751

    Qualifications: Master of Speech Pathology; Certified Practicing Speech Pathologist (CPSP)

    Nathan is a versatile and passionate speech pathologist with experience working in a diverse range of clinical areas across paediatric development. Delivering fly-in fly-out services for Country Health SA to Kangaroo Island and other rural communities previously, Nathan is accustomed to thinking on his feet to provide innovative and customised approaches to assessment and therapy that capitalise on the strengths of the child and their family.

    Nathan consults in his private practice at Adelaide Paediatrics Bedford Park, Elizabeth Vale and Mile End locations and is able to provide high quality services to all clinical areas, but particularly specialises in Autism Spectrum Disorder and its associated difficulties, stuttering and dysfluencies, bi/polylingual children, paediatric dysphagia and feeding difficulties, Auditory Processing Disorder, and children who present as late talkers. Nathan also currently provides adult services as part of the Southern Adelaide Local Health Network, and enjoys contributing to the strong team environment at Adelaide Paediatrics.

    Helping children and their families with: Feeding and mealtime difficulties; Dysphagia (swallowing disorder/difficulty); Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD); Auditory Processing Disorder (APD); Children with articulation/speech disorders; Language delays/disorders; Late talkers; Stuttering/stammering aged 2 and above; Social skills/communication difficulties; Voice disorders (dysphonia); Cerebral Palsy (CP) or other physical disabilities that require alternative/augmented communication devices (AAC) to help them communicate, also in cases where the child is not able to communicate verbally due to this disability/disorder (of any age); School aged children with literacy/spelling difficulties; School aged children with difficulties/delays with Phonological Awareness (PA)

    Make an appointment:

    Adelaide Paediatrics Mile End
    71 Henley Beach Road
    Mile End SA 5031
    T: 08 7123 6147

    Adelaide Paediatrics Bedford Park
    Mark Oliphant Building
    8/5 Laffer Drive
    Bedford Park SA 5042
    T: 08 7123 6149

  • Independent Consulting Speech Pathologist
    ABN 19 217 365 138

    Qualifications: Bachelor of Speech Pathology

    I am a passionate, kind and caring Speech Pathologist with vast experience working with children across settings. My purpose is to encourage each child reach their full potential through creating engaging and rewarding therapy sessions. My ability to build rapport quickly with both children and their families enables us to develop client specific goals in a warm and encouraging environment therefore fostering each child’s ability to achieve positive outcomes.

    I have a particular interest in working with children that present as late talkers and children with diagnoses such as language delays/disorders, speech delays/disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and social language deficits.

    Helping children and families with: Assessment and intervention of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Early communication development and play skills; Developmental Delays; Language Delays/Disorders; Articulation/Speech Delays/Disorders; Phonological Awareness; Social Skills

    Make an appointment:

    Adelaide Paediatrics Elizabeth Vale
    32 Oldham Road
    Elizabeth Vale SA 5112
    T: 08 7123 6148

  • Independent Consulting Speech Pathologist
    ABN 33 951 294 700

    Helen is an outgoing, passionate and caring speech pathologist with extensive experience working with children in community, education and private practice across Adelaide. She has worked with children with spoken and written communication difficulties, as well as children with a range of different diagnoses, including children with Intellectual Disability and Autism Spectrum Disorder.

    Helen consults in her private practice at Adelaide Paediatrics Elizabeth Vale location and has a particular interest in working with families and children on the Autism Spectrum. Helen is an Autism SA accredited diagnostician. She has also completed training in the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) and key word sign.

    Helen believes in the importance of establishing relationships with both parents and their children, and has a strong commitment to seeing every child achieve their full potential. Helen likes to bring fun and play into her sessions with her bubbly and friendly manner, allowing her to quickly establish rapport with the children and families she works with.

    Helping children and families with: Late talkers/ early communication development;; Articulation and speech disorders; Language delays and disorders; Non-verbal communication; Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD); Alternative and Augmented Communication (AAC); Early communication development and play skills; Literacy skills; Social skills and communication; Higher level language skills

    Make an appointment:

    Adelaide Paediatrics Elizabeth Vale
    32 Oldham Road
    Elizabeth Vale SA 5112
    T: 08 7123 6148

  • Staff Psychologist

    Qualifications: B.Soc.Sc(Psych)(Hons); M.Psych(O&HF); MAPS

    Lauren Mason is a registered psychologist with over 10 years of experience. Lauren brings a warm and caring approach to her work. She is passionate to support young people and their families to flourish.

    Lauren also has experience in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) diagnostic assessments and psycho-educational assessments and supports.

    Outside of her work, Lauren enjoys being with her young family, meditation and gardening.

    Helping children and families with: Anxiety; Depression; Emotional regulation; Developmental concerns; Behavioural issues; Social skills development

    Lauren consults two days per week from Adelaide Paediatrics Mount Barker location.

    Make an appointment:

    Adelaide Paediatrics Mount Barker
    2/50 Victoria Road
    Mount Barker SA 5251
    T: 08 7123 6175

  • Independent Consulting Psychologist
    ABN 86 506 097 968

    Qualifications: Master of Education: Child & Family Psychology (Distinction) University of Canterbury; Post Graduate Diploma Child & Family Psychology; Bachelor of Education

    Linda is a registered psychologist with a broad range of experience working with children, adolescents and their families, and the education settings they participate in. Linda trained as a child and family psychologist through the University of Canterbury in Christchurch and has considerable experience in the assessment, diagnosis and intervention of a broad range of psychological and developmental conditions affecting children and young people. Linda also has a background in teaching and draws on this experience to advocate for children at school.

    Linda consults in her private practice at Adelaide Paediatrics Elizabeth Vale and Mt Barker locations with a strong commitment to working in partnership with families to support children and adolescents to reach their full potential and maximise their strengths. She uses a range of evidence-based intervention techniques and adjusts her approach to suit each individual child and family. Linda has experience in a range of positive behaviour support strategies and works with families to develop plans that are realistic and compatible with their unique situations. Linda is passionate about supporting children to learn, develop and thrive in the contexts and relationships in which they live.

    Helping children and families with: Diagnostic assessment and intervention for Autism Spectrum Disorders; Supporting children and families with complex disabilities (e.g. Physical disability, ID, ASD); Anxiety; Coping with emotions; Social skills; School issues; Toileting/Sleep issues; Developing positive behaviour plans/ Parenting support; Psycho-educational Assessment

    Make an appointment:

    Adelaide Paediatrics Elizabeth Vale
    32 Oldham Road
    Elizabeth Vale SA 5112
    T: 08 7123 6148

    Adelaide Paediatrics Mount Barker
    2/50 Victoria Road
    Mt Barker SA 5251
    T: 08 7123 6175

  • Independent Consulting Psychologist
    ABN 85 432 285 979

    Qualifications: Master of Psychology (Poland); Graduate Diploma in Family Therapy and Systemic Practice; Clinical Training in Child Centred Play Therapy

    Karolina is a Registered Psychologist with extensive experience in the area of Educational and Developmental Psychology. She has worked in both public and private education and has experience in conducting cognitive, psycho-educational and social-emotional assessments as well as providing counselling with primary and high school age children across a variety of issues. She also has experience running group intervention programs and providing treatment to children and adolescents in a private practice context.

    Karolina consults in her private practice at Adelaide Paediatrics Bedford Park rooms using an eclectic approach in service delivery integrating a variety of evidence-based interventions to meet the needs of her clients including, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Cognitive and Behaviour Therapy, however, her work most often draws from a Family Therapy framework. Karolina brings a passion for working collaboratively with families and other stakeholders to influence change in her private practice. She is also passionate about working with children using the Play Therapy approach that allows them to work through their experiences and emotions in a way that is appropriate to their age and developmental stage.

    Helping children and families with: School difficulties; Anxiety and emotional regulation; Behavioural problems; Peer relationships; Trauma; Family counselling and supporting parenting skills; Cognitive (IQ testing) and educational assessments; ASD assessments

    Make an appointment:

    Adelaide Paediatrics Bedford Park
    Mark Oliphant Building
    8/5 Laffer Drive
    Bedford Park SA 5042
    T: 08 7123 6149

  • Independent Consulting Speech Pathologist
    ABN

    Qualifications: Bachelor of Speech Pathology

    Aliya is an outgoing and passionate speech pathologist experienced in working with a diverse range of children in clinic-based, community and education settings. Her patient, caring and bubbly nature allows her to quickly build relationships with clients and their families. Aliya believes in the importance of building trusting relationships with families and clients and is committed to facilitating children’s development and well-being in order for them to reach their goals.

    Aliya’s passion for paediatrics saw her working in America with children aged 3 to 6 years of age whilst completing her Speech Pathology Degree.

    Aliya has extensive experience in working with children with communication difficulties, as well as children with disabilities and those with feeding difficulties.

    Aliya is an Autism SA-accredited diagnostician, as well as an accredited facilitator of “What’s the Buzz” social skills program. She has also completed training in the Sequential Oral Sequencing (SOS) program, Hanen It Takes Two to Talk program, as well as the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) and key word sign.

    Aliya consults in her private practice at Adelaide Paediatrics Kensington Park & Mile End locations.

    Helping children and families with: Assessment and intervention of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

    Make an appointment:

    Adelaide Paediatrics Kensington Park
    360 Magill Road
    Kensington Park SA 5068
    T: 08 7123 6176

    Adelaide Paediatrics Mile End
    71 Henley Beach Road
    Mile End SA 5031
    T: 08 7123 6147

  • Independent Consulting Psychologist
    ABN 74 595 219 094

    Qualifications: Master of Educational Psychology

    Rebecca is a registered psychologist with a background in educational and developmental psychology. She has worked with children, adolescents and families in schools and private practice settings, and also has had extensive training and experience in cognitive and psycho-educational assessment.

    Rebecca consults in her private practice at Adelaide Paediatrics Elizabeth Vale and Kensington Park locations. She enjoys working with children and young people of all ages, presenting with a range of issues, including social, emotional, learning and behavioural difficulties. Rebecca uses a collaborative approach, and is able to work with families and other important people around a young person to provide the best opportunities for support, change and progress.

    Rebecca draws on the strengths and coping strategies that children and families already have, to acknowledge their abilities, as well as build their skills to deal with life’s ups and downs. She uses a range of approaches, including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and strengths-based, solution-focused practices.

    Helping children and families with: School issues; Anxiety; Behavioural problems; Emotional regulation; Social skills; Anger management; Cognitive assessment; Parenting skills, support and education problems; Emotional regulation; Social skills; Anger management; Cognitive assessment; Parenting skills, support and education

    Make an appointment:

    Adelaide Paediatrics Elizabeth Vale
    32 Oldham Road
    Elizabeth Vale SA 5112
    T: 08 7123 6148

    Adelaide Paediatrics Kensington Park
    360 Magill Road
    Kensington Park SA 5068
    T: 08 7123 6176

Make a booking

Independent Medical Specialists consulting in private practice at Adelaide Paediatrics triage incoming referrals and aim to accommodate urgent referrals as soon as possible, offering the earliest available appointment with a paediatrician

  • Adelaide Paediatrics Ashford
    Suite 15, Level 3 Ashford Specialist Centre
    57-59 Anzac Highway
    Ashford SA 5035

    T: 08 7123 6171
    F: 08 7123 0821

  • Adelaide Paediatrics Bedford Park
    Mark Oliphant Building
    8/5 Laffer Drive
    Bedford Park
    SA 5042

    T: 08 7123 6149
    F: 08 7123 0821

  • Adelaide Paediatrics Elizabeth Vale
    32 Oldham Road
    Elizabeth Vale
    SA 5112

    T: 08 7123 6148
    F: 08 7123 0821

  • Adelaide Paediatrics Kensington Park
    360 Magill Road
    Kensington Park
    SA 5068

    T: 08 7123 6176
    F: 08 7123 0821

  • Adelaide Paediatrics Mile End
    SuperGym Therapy & Rehab Centre
    71 Henley Beach Road
    Mile End SA 5031

    T: 08 7123 6147
    F: 08 7123 0821

  • Adelaide Paediatrics Morphett Vale
    221-223 Main South Road
    Morphett Vale SA 5162

    T: 08 7123 6163
    F: 08 7123 0821

  • Adelaide Paediatrics Mount Barker
    2/50 Victoria Road
    Mount Barker SA 5251

    T: 08 7123 6175
    F: 08 7123 0821

  • Adelaide Paediatrics North Adelaide
    Calvary Hospital
    89 Strangways Terrace
    North Adelaide SA 5006

    T: 08 7123 6173
    F: 08 7123 0821

  • Adelaide Paediatrics Wayville
    The Terraces
    4-6 Goodwood Road
    Wayville SA 5034

    T: 08 7123 6177
    F: 08 7123 0821