Conditions We Treat

Combined Autism and ADHD Assessment

An integrated assessment exploring characteristics associated with both autism and ADHD and how they may affect a child's development and everyday life.

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30 min consultation

You'll receive a confirmation by email.

When a Combined Assessment May Be Considered

Understanding Overlapping Needs

Autism and ADHD are separate neurodevelopmental conditions, but some children and young people present with characteristics associated with both. A combined assessment may be considered when parents, caregivers or teachers notice:

  • Differences in social communication or interaction
  • Difficulty recognising social cues
  • A strong preference for routines or predictability
  • Focused or highly specific interests
  • Sensory sensitivities or sensory-seeking behaviour
  • Difficulty maintaining attention
  • Becoming easily distracted
  • Frequent restlessness or fidgeting
  • Difficulty organising and completing tasks
  • Acting impulsively
  • Emotional regulation difficulties
  • Needs affecting more than one setting, such as home and school

Individual signs do not confirm autism or ADHD. A combined assessment helps consider the child's overall profile rather than exploring each area in isolation.

What the Assessment Explores

Looking at the Complete Picture

A boy receiving a bandage from a smiling nurse while his mother watches

Communication & Interaction

How the child communicates, connects with others and responds to social information.

A girl smiling while seated on a clear chair

Behaviour & Interests

How the child's interests, routines and behaviours shape their day-to-day experiences.

A boy resting his chin on his hands, deep in thought

Impulse Control

How the child pauses, waits and manages their responses in the moment.

A curly-haired child reading quietly by a wooden railing

Executive Function

How the child plans, organises and follows through with everyday tasks.

A close-up of a boy's hands clasped together

Sensory Experience

How the child responds to sounds, textures, light and other everyday sensory information.

A girl with her hands raised, mid-expression

Everyday Function

How the child manages routines, relationships and responsibilities day to day.

The Assessment Process

One Coordinated Assessment Pathway

Initial Consultation

The clinician meets with the family to discuss current concerns, developmental history and any previous assessments or support.

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A mother and child hugging playfully outdoors

Information Gathering

With appropriate consent, information may be gathered from parents, caregivers, teachers and other professionals who know the child.

Clinical Assessment

The child engages in age-appropriate interviews, observations, and activities, using specific autism or ADHD tools when needed.

A nurse checking a baby's ear with an otoscope
A girl lying down and writing in a notebook beside a soft toy

Clinical Review

Relevant clinicians review the information together to consider both autism and ADHD, as well as any other needs that may contribute to the child's presentation.

Feedback and Recommendations

The findings are discussed with the child and family, alongside recommendations and appropriate next steps.

A doctor checking on a child resting in a hospital bed

The process may vary according to the child's age, communication needs and individual presentation.

A mother reading a book with her son on the sofa

Currently Reading

Psychology

Exploring emotional, learning, and developmental needs.

The Team

The Multidisciplinary Team

The professionals involved will depend on the child's individual profile and the areas being explored. Choose a discipline to see its role.

A combined autism and ADHD assessment involves multiple disciplines to build a complete picture. Additional input is gathered to identify and support:

  • Communication and interaction styles
  • Emotional regulation and wellbeing
  • Sensory processing needs
  • Learning and educational requirements

Following the Assessment

Clear Findings and Coordinated Recommendations

What we saw, in plain language

Following the assessment, the family will receive a clear explanation of the findings and recommendations. Where appropriate, this will include a written report.

Written for families first, professionals second.

A father buttoning his son's shirt in a colourful living room

Our Philosophy

Preparing for the Assessment

The team will explain what information is required and how to prepare the child before the assessment begins.

01

Gather what you have

Families may be asked to provide relevant developmental, medical, and educational information before the appointment.

02

Share existing records

This information could include previous assessments, medical reports, or direct school feedback.

03

Complete questionnaires

You may need to provide completed questionnaires or detailed information about any existing support your child receives.

04

Arrive as you are

We will guide you on how to talk to your child about the day. There is nothing to rehearse or practice beforehand.

A young girl sitting with two women on a porch

Let's Connect

Considering a Combined Autism & ADHD Assessment?

Speak with our team about your concerns and whether a combined assessment may be an appropriate next step for your child.