Autism
(Autism Spectrum Disorder)
Understanding Autism:
A Neurodevelopmental Condition
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person experiences and interacts with the world, including social communication, sensory processing, routines, and emotional regulation. These differences can affect every aspect of a person's life, from work and study to relationships and personal wellbeing. Our psychiatrists provide structured, evidence-based autism assessments for adults and adolescents across Australia, helping patients gain clarity, validation, and a clearer path forward.
Consult with Our Psychiatrist
Our psychiatrists provide assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning for a range of mental health conditions.
Key Facts about Autism
Around 1 in 40 Australians is autistic, with many more undiagnosed.
Many people are not diagnosed until adulthood, after a lifetime of feeling "different."
Autism is a spectrum, each person's strengths and challenges are unique.
Autism commonly co-occurs with ADHD, anxiety, depression, and sleep difficulties.
A formal diagnosis can support NDIS applications, workplace accommodations, and study supports.
Signs of Autism
Our telehealth and in-person psychiatry services across Australia provide a convenient, accessible option for adults and adolescents seeking an autism assessment.
Differences in social communication
Difficulty reading social cues
Sensory sensitivities
Strong preference for routine or predictability
Intense or focused interests
Masking and social exhaustion
Executive functioning difficulties
Emotional regulation challenges
Recurrent burnout or overwhelm
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of Autism Spectrum Disorder is not fully understood. Research suggests it is linked to differences in brain development that begin early in life.
Several factors may increase the likelihood of being autistic.
It is important to note that autism is not an illness to be cured, and it is not caused by parenting style or vaccines.
Genetics
Autism often runs in families. Individuals with a parent or sibling on the spectrum may have a higher likelihood of being autistic themselves.
Brain Development
Differences in how the brain develops and processes information, particularly in areas involved in social communication and sensory processing, are associated with autism.
Developmental Factors
Certain factors during early development may be associated with increased likelihood, such as:
- Advanced parental age
- Premature birth
- Low birth weight
- Certain genetic conditions
How is Autism Diagnosed?
Autism is diagnosed through a comprehensive clinical assessment conducted by a qualified clinician, usually a psychiatrist.
There is no single test for autism. Diagnosis involves reviewing developmental history, current experiences, and how differences affect daily functioning, often supported by internationally recognised assessment tools.
A typical autism assessment may include:
Clinical Interview
The psychiatrist explores social communication patterns, sensory experiences, routines, emotional regulation, and how these affect work, study, and relationships.
Standardised Assessment Tools
Validated tools such as the ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule), ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised), and ACIA (Autism Clinical Interview for Adults) may be used to strengthen diagnostic accuracy.
Developmental History
Autistic traits are typically present from early life, so clinicians often review childhood history, school experiences, and information from family members where available.
Assessment of Other Conditions
Other conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders may be assessed because they commonly co-occur with autism.
ASD Assessment Package
We offer a structured, comprehensive ASD assessment package for adults, completed across three face-to-face appointments with Dr Morteza Hayati, our psychiatrist experienced in adult autism assessment.
Eligibility: Adults aged 18–65. All appointments are conducted face to face at our Sydney clinic, and the full three-session package is required to complete the assessment.
Session 1:
ADOS Assessment
A 50-minute standardised assessment using the ADOS (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule), an internationally recognised diagnostic tool.
Fee: $1,080
Session 2:
Comprehensive Clinical Assessment
A 50-minute in-depth clinical assessment covering developmental history, current experiences, and co-occurring conditions.
Fee: $960
Session 3:
Follow-Up and Feedback
A 30-minute appointment to discuss findings, diagnosis, and recommendations.
Fee: $480
Total package cost: $2,520. Medicare rebates apply for eligible patients and may vary based on eligibility and Safety Net thresholds.
What's included: a comprehensive diagnostic assessment across three sessions, standardised assessment including the ADOS, and a detailed written report with diagnosis and recommendations.
Combined ASD and ADHD Assessment: Dr Hayati also offers a combined ASD and ADHD assessment package, completed across three 50-minute appointments (total package cost $3,000) — suitable where both conditions are being explored.
To book: Assessment packages are arranged through our reception team rather than online booking, so the structured three-session process is set up correctly from the start. Please call 1300 680 000 to arrange.
Your Diagnostic Report
Where a diagnosis is confirmed, you will receive a comprehensive report outlining assessment findings and practical recommendations.
This report may assist with:
- Personal understanding and planning
- Workplace accommodations
- University or educational supports
- NDIS applications and disability supports
- Therapy planning and communication with other health professionals
Support Options for Autistic Individuals
Autism itself does not need to be "cured." Support focuses on practical strategies, wellbeing, and treating co-occurring conditions where present.
Psychiatric Care
Many autistic individuals also experience anxiety, ADHD, depression, sleep difficulties, or burnout. Psychiatric care can help identify and treat these co-occurring conditions while supporting overall wellbeing.
Practical Strategies and Psychoeducation
Support may include guidance around:
- Executive functioning strategies
- Managing sensory overload
- Understanding masking and burnout
- Workplace or study accommodations
- Building sustainable daily routines
Multidisciplinary Collaboration
Autism support often works best through a team approach.
Where appropriate, we may collaborate with:
- Psychologists
- Occupational therapists
- Speech therapists
- Schools, universities, or workplace support services
Support plans are personalised and may change over time.
Why choose Mind Oasis Clinic
Australia’s Leading Psychiatry Clinic
Established Since 2020
15,000+ Patients Treated Nationwide
Trusted by 20,000+ Referring GPs
Team of 25+ Experienced Psychiatrists
Face-To-Face Consultations in Sydney & Melbourne
Nationwide Telehealth Consultations
Short Wait Times & Weekend Appointments
24/7 Online Booking with Instant Confirmation
Autism
Frequently Asked Questions
What is involved in an adult autism assessment in Sydney?
An adult autism assessment in Sydney involves one or more consultations exploring developmental history, social communication, sensory experiences, and daily functioning. Structured tools such as the ADOS-2, ADI-R, or ACIA may be used to support diagnostic accuracy.
How long does an autism assessment take?
Our structured adult ASD assessment package with Dr Hayati is completed across three face-to-face appointments: a 50-minute ADOS assessment, a 50-minute comprehensive clinical assessment, and a 30-minute follow-up. Additional questionnaires or collateral history may also form part of the assessment.
Can adults be diagnosed with autism?
Yes. Many people receive an autism diagnosis in adulthood after recognising lifelong patterns that were not identified earlier. Assessment can provide clarity, validation, and a clearer path forward.
Can I have an autism assessment via telehealth in Australia?
Yes, our telehealth service provides access to psychiatrists experienced in autism assessment across the country. Depending on the assessment tools required, some components may be recommended in person.
Will I receive a diagnostic report?
Yes. Where diagnostic criteria are met, a comprehensive report will be provided outlining findings and recommendations, which may support NDIS applications, workplace accommodations, and educational supports.
Can autism be treated?
Autism itself does not need to be "cured." However, support strategies and treatment for co-occurring conditions such as anxiety or ADHD can improve quality of life, functioning, and wellbeing.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?
A referral from your GP is generally required to access Medicare rebates for psychiatric assessment and treatment.
How much does an autism assessment cost?
Our structured ASD assessment package for adults with Dr Hayati is $2,520 across three face-to-face sessions, with Medicare rebates available for eligible patients. A combined ASD and ADHD assessment package is also available at $3,000. To arrange a package, call reception on 1300 680 000.
What if the person needing an assessment is under 18?
Dr Hayati's ASD assessment package is for adults aged 18–65. For children and adolescents, we can arrange an autism assessment through a partnered psychologist, coordinated with our child and adolescent psychiatrist, Dr Dickens. The partnered psychologist's fees are billed separately by them. Please call reception on 1300 680 000 to discuss the right pathway.
What if I don't live in Sydney?
Dr Hayati's assessment package is conducted in person in Sydney. If you're located elsewhere, we can coordinate an autism assessment through a partnered psychologist, with the broader assessment overseen by our psychiatrist. The partnered psychologist's fees are billed separately by them. Please call reception on 1300 680 000 so we can advise on availability.