Autism Assessment
Adult Autism Assessment by Telehealth
A comprehensive telehealth assessment for adults seeking clarity about autism spectrum disorder — understanding your experiences, history and next steps, delivered securely by video.
The assessment process
An adult autism assessment is a structured clinical process conducted by a FRANZCP-qualified psychiatrist via secure telehealth. It is designed to be thorough, respectful, and genuinely helpful — whether or not the assessment identifies autism. Here's what to expect at each stage.
- 01
Initial consultation
Your first telehealth appointment involves a detailed clinical interview. Your psychiatrist will explore your reasons for seeking assessment, your experiences, and what you hope to understand from the process.
- 02
Developmental history
Because autism is a neurodevelopmental condition, your psychiatrist will ask about your childhood, social development, education, and patterns across your lifetime. Standardised questionnaires may also be used.
- 03
Collateral information
Where possible and with your consent, your psychiatrist may seek input from a family member or someone who knew you well in childhood. This helps build a complete and accurate picture.
- 04
Clinical formulation
Your psychiatrist synthesises all information — interview, history, questionnaires and collateral — to determine whether you meet the diagnostic criteria for autism spectrum disorder.
- 05
Feedback & plan
You'll receive a clear explanation of the findings and, if autism is identified, a discussion of what this means for you. A report is provided to you and your GP, with recommendations for next steps.
Timeframes & what to expect
The full assessment typically takes place over two to three telehealth sessions, depending on complexity. Each session runs for approximately 45–60 minutes. You may also be asked to complete standardised questionnaires between appointments.
In some cases, your psychiatrist may request collateral information — such as school reports or input from a family member who knew you in childhood — to support a thorough and accurate assessment. This is always done with your consent, and the assessment can proceed without it if that is your preference.
A GP referral is required to access Medicare rebates for your assessment. Once the assessment is complete, your psychiatrist will discuss the findings with you and outline recommended next steps, which may include strategies for support and, where appropriate, shared care with your GP or other allied health professionals.
A measured, respectful process
Seeking an autism assessment as an adult is a personal decision, and it is one that should be approached with care. The goal of the assessment is not to label you, but to provide clarity — to help you understand your experiences, and to identify the kinds of support that may be genuinely helpful.
Some adults seek assessment because they have long sensed they experience the world differently from others. Others are prompted by a diagnosis in a family member, or by challenges in work or relationships that have led them to explore whether autism may be a factor. Whatever brings you to assessment, your psychiatrist will approach the process with curiosity, respect, and without assumptions.
It is important to understand that an autism assessment is a clinical process. Your psychiatrist will consider your experiences in the context of established diagnostic criteria, while recognising that every person's presentation is unique. Whether or not the assessment identifies autism, the process itself can be valuable — providing insight, validation, and direction.
Ready to get started?
If you're considering an adult autism assessment, the first step is a referral from your GP. Once you have one, send it through and our team will arrange your initial telehealth appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can adult autism be diagnosed by telehealth?
Yes. A comprehensive autism assessment can be conducted very effectively by secure video. Your psychiatrist can take a detailed developmental history, review questionnaires, and make a diagnosis by video. Collateral information can be gathered with your permission.
Is autism assessment different for adults than children?
Yes. Adult autism assessment focuses on lifelong patterns and how autism has manifested across development, education, relationships, and work. Many adults have spent years adapting and masking their autistic traits, so the assessment takes a careful, thorough approach to understanding your experiences over time.
What if I'm unsure whether I'm autistic?
That's perfectly normal. Many adults are uncertain or have never considered autism until later in life. An assessment can provide clarity — whether or not it identifies autism, the process itself can help you understand your experiences and learn more about yourself.
What happens after the assessment?
You'll receive a detailed report and a discussion of the findings. If autism is identified, your psychiatrist will discuss what this means for you and provide recommendations for strategies, supports, and resources. A copy of the report is provided to you and your GP.
Do I need a GP referral for an autism assessment?
Yes. A GP referral is required to access Medicare rebates for your assessment. Your GP can send the referral directly to us or you can submit it through our online form. Once the referral is received, we'll arrange your initial appointment.
Related reading
Ready to take the first step?
Book an appointment or send a referral today. Our team will be in touch within one business day.