Frequently Asked Questions
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If you are paying privately for therapy and do not intend to use Medicare or private health insurance, you do not need a referral to access psychological services.
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The first session is an orientation to therapy, and it will generally be with you, the parent or caregiver. We will review consent procedures, answer any questions you have, and spend time getting to know your child's needs, strengths, and challenges. For younger children, we focus on understanding how we can best support them in therapy. In the second session, we typically begin working directly with your child or adolescent.
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In the first session, we’ll orient you to therapy, review consent procedures, and answer questions. We’ll discuss your strengths, challenges, and goals, and work together to create a treatment plan. Sessions are conversational and casual to make you feel comfortable.
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Yes, your privacy is a priority. Information is kept confidential unless written consent is provided to share it with others. The only exceptions are if we are legally required to disclose information or if there is a serious risk of harm to yourself or others. Confidentiality will be discussed in more detail at your first appointment.
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Intake sessions: 90 minutes
Individual therapy sessions: 50 minutes
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The number of sessions depends on the nature of the concerns being addressed. We aim to create a treatment plan tailored to your needs, balancing your goals with the financial investment involved. We will work together to determine the appropriate frequency for your sessions.
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Sessions are $270 for a 50 minute session (in person and online).
Out of pocket $128.15 with a mental health care plan.
Psychological Letters are charged at an hourly rate of $270 (+GST)
Visit our Fees page for more information.
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If you need immediate assistance or are experiencing a crisis, please contact Lifeline at 13 11 14 or the Suicide Call Back Service at 1300 659 467. You can also visit your nearest emergency room or contact 000 for urgent assistance.
Visit our Resources page for more information.
Autism Assessments
We understand that seeking an Autism diagnosis as an adult can feel like a big step, and we are here to provide a supportive, affirming experience. See our Assessments page for more information. If you have any questions about the process, feel free to get in touch.
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An assessment for Autism is essential for diagnosis and can unlock access to specific supports and funding. The process involves gathering information about your child’s development, functioning, social interactions, and behaviours.
After the assessment, a comprehensive report will be provided, and a parent/caregiver feedback session will be held. Recommendations for further support and referrals to other healthcare professionals will also be discussed.
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Autism presentations vary greatly, which can make self-diagnosis challenging. You might wonder, "Why now?" even if you’ve navigated life without a diagnosis. There are several benefits to seeking an assessment as an adult:
Self-understanding and compassion: An autism diagnosis can help you connect the dots to your past experiences, whether with therapy, socializing, or navigating life. You may find community and thrive unmasked.
Professional support: Standard therapy approaches and workplace environments designed for allistic individuals may not be suitable for autistic individuals. An autism diagnosis and tailored recommendations can help you advocate for the accommodations that best support your needs.
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Our assessments are thorough and multifaceted:
Clinical Interview & History Gathering: We gather essential information from parents/caregivers regarding your child's family and medical history, developmental milestones, social interactions, and behavioural patterns.
Rating Scales: We ask both the parent/caregiver and the child's teacher (if applicable) to complete questionnaires that assess ASD-related traits.
Standardised Assessment: We utilise standardised tools designed to aid in the diagnosis of ASD.
Cognitive Testing & Adaptive Functioning: If relevant, we may include assessments to explore cognitive abilities, executive functioning, or adaptive skills. This is particularly useful for tailoring supports and accommodations to your individual needs.
Report & Recommendations: After the assessment, you’ll receive a comprehensive report with findings, recommendations, and referrals (if necessary). There is a 6 week turnaround for reports.
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Our Autism assessments for adults are comprehensive, neuroaffirming, and tailored to your individual experiences. The process includes:
Clinical Interview & History Gathering: We begin with an in-depth interview to explore your personal, developmental, and family history, as well as current challenges, strengths, and lived experiences. This process helps us understand how traits associated with Autism may have shaped your life.
Rating Scales: You may be asked to complete self-report questionnaires and, where applicable, invite input from someone who knows you well (e.g., a partner, parent, or close friend). These tools assess traits often linked to Autism.
Standardised Assessments: We use evidence-based diagnostic tools specifically designed to identify Autism in adults.
Cognitive Testing & Adaptive Functioning (if required): If relevant, we may include assessments to explore cognitive abilities, executive functioning, or adaptive skills. This is particularly useful for tailoring supports and accommodations to your individual needs.
Report & Recommendations: A detailed report summarizing the findings will be provided. This report includes diagnostic conclusions (if applicable), tailored recommendations, and suggestions for support or accommodations. There is a 6-week turnaround for the report, and findings will be discussed in a feedback session.
Optional: If ADHD is also a concern, further assessment can be integrated into the process for a holistic understanding of your neurodivergence. Additional fees and time may apply.
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Medicare: Assessments are not covered by Medicare. However, with a referral from a paediatrician or psychiatrist, individuals under 25 years diagnosed with a complex neurodevelopmental disorder may be eligible for a Medicare rebate for diagnostic assessments.
Private Health Insurance: Some private health funds may offer rebates for psychological services. Please contact your insurer to confirm your eligibility.
NDIS: The NDIS does not cover diagnostic assessments unless explicitly requested by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA). However, cognitive assessments may be funded in some cases, depending on your plan. Please check with your local area coordinator before booking the assessment to confirm eligibility.
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Autism Assessment: $1900
Comprehensive Assessment (ADHD & Autism): $2400
A $500 non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking. Payment for the full assessment must be received before scheduling the feedback session. An invoice will be provided after the last assessment.
Visit our Fees and Assessments page for more information.
ADHD Assessments
If you are unsure about the assessment process or how we approach neuroaffirming diagnostics, feel free to get in touch via our New Client Enquiry Form. See our Assessments page for more information.
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An assessment is essential for accurately diagnosing ADHD and gaining access to tailored interventions and supports. This comprehensive evaluation provides insight into your child's cognitive abilities, executive functioning, and academic performance.
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Adults often wonder if it’s too late to pursue an ADHD diagnosis, but seeking an assessment can offer substantial benefits, such as:
Understanding and self-compassion: It can help you understand why certain challenges in life and work have felt more difficult.
Tailored support: You may find that the right professional strategies and workplace accommodations will be more effective once your ADHD is diagnosed.
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The ADHD assessment process includes:
Clinical Interview & History Gathering: We gather information from parents/caregivers about the child’s medical and family history, developmental milestones, and ADHD-related symptoms.
Rating Scales: We request questionnaires from parents/caregivers and teachers (if applicable) to assess common ADHD traits.
Standardised Assessment: We utilize standardised tools designed to aid in diagnosing ADHD.
Cognitive Testing: We evaluate cognitive abilities, academic functioning, and executive skills to assess how ADHD may be impacting your child’s life.
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The ADHD assessment process includes:
Clinical Interview & History Gathering: We’ll explore your medical and family history, past and current challenges, and ADHD-related symptoms to gain a comprehensive understanding of your experiences.
Rating Scales: You’ll complete questionnaires assessing common ADHD traits, and we may request input from someone who knows you well (e.g., a partner, family member, or close friend) to provide additional insight.
Standardised Assessment: We use evidence-based tools designed to support the diagnosis of ADHD.
Cognitive Testing: We assess your cognitive abilities, executive functioning, and how ADHD may be affecting your day-to-day life, work, or study.
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Medicare: ADHD assessments are not covered by Medicare.
Private Health Insurance: Some psychological services may be eligible for private health insurance rebates. Please confirm with your insurer.
NDIS: The NDIS does not provide funding for ADHD diagnostic assessments, unless specifically requested by the NDIA. In some cases, cognitive assessments may be eligible for funding.
Referral from Paediatrician or Psychiatrist: Should you receive a referral, you may be eligible for a Medicare rebate for diagnostic assessments.
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ADHD Assessment: $1900
Comprehensive Assessment (ADHD & Autism): $2500
A $500 non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking. Full payment is due before scheduling the feedback session. An invoice will be provided after the last assessment.
Note: If you're considering ADHD medication, it's more cost-effective to consult a psychiatrist for a prescription, as only they can provide ADHD medication.
Visit our Fees and Assessments page for more information.
NDIS
At I am ME Clinical Psychology, we provide tailored psychological services for NDIS participants including children (8+), adolescents, and young adults with Autism. Therapeutic supports are generally provided under the Improved Daily Living item, within the Capacity Building Category of an NDIS plan. See our NDIS page for more information.
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If you'd like to know if we can support you in achieving your NDIS plan goals, please complete our online New Client Enquiry Form. Alternatively, your support co-ordinator or nominated person is welcome to contact us.