When You DON’T Need a Diagnosis

Many families are surprised to learn that you can start support without a formal autism diagnosis.
Your child can still receive help with:

• Communication skills
• Emotional regulation
• Daily routines
• Play and social interaction
• Sensory processing

​Starting support early can often be more important than waiting for a diagnosis.

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When a Diagnosis CAN Be Helpful

There are some situations where a diagnosis becomes more important.

1. Accessing NDIS Funding
For many families, a diagnosis helps when applying for NDIS funding.
It can:

• Provide evidence of support needs
• Strengthen applications
• Help guide funding decisions

However, it’s important to know:
NDIS does not fund the assessment itself

2. School Supports
A diagnosis may help schools to:

• Better understand your child’s needs
• Put appropriate supports in place
• Access additional resources

​3. Understanding Your Child More Clearly
For some families, a diagnosis provides:

• Clarity
• Validation
• A shared understanding across supports

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When You Might Choose to Wait

Some families decide not to pursue a diagnosis straight away.
This might be because:

• They want to start therapy first
• Their child is still very young
• They are still exploring what support looks like

This is completely okay.
Support can still begin based on your child’s needs.

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What Matters Most: Support, Not Just Labels

​While a diagnosis can be helpful in certain situations, it doesn’t change who your child is.
What often makes the biggest difference is:

• Early support
• Consistency
• Understanding your child’s strengths and needs

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What If I’m Still Not Sure?

If you’re unsure whether to pursue a diagnosis, you’re not alone.

Many families sit in this space for a while.

You might find it helpful to start here:
What To Do If You Think Your Child Might Be Autistic
Autism Assessment Process in Perth & Mandurah

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A Balanced Approach Many Families Take

A common pathway is:

1. Start therapy or support
2. Build understanding of your child’s needs
3. Decide later whether a diagnosis would be helpful

This allows you to take action without feeling rushed.

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How We Can Support You

​At Belong Health, we work with families at all stages — whether you’re just starting to ask questions or ready to explore assessments.
We can help you:

• Understand your options
• Start support early
• Navigate the assessment process if needed

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Not Sure What the Right Step Is?

​That’s completely okay.

Book a free 20-minute call with our team
Or contact us to talk through your situation
Our team is here to help call us on 08 9586 3634 or send us an email here

​Your Support​ Matters
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Have a question? or need more information

Our friendly team are happy to help call us on 08 9586 3634 or send us a message

13 Littleton st, Falcon

Phone: 08 9586 3934

EMAIL US

OFFICE HOURS:         MONDAY TO FRIDAY 8:30am - 4:30pm

BELONG HEALTH'S Paediatric Occupational Therapy SERVICES FOR Perth region

A: Alexander Heights, Alfred Cove, Applecross, Applecross North, Ardross, Armadale, Ascot, Ashby, Ashfield, Attadale, Atwell, Aubin Grove, Aveley
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O: O'connor, Ocean Reef, Orange Grove, Osborne Park
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T: Tamala Park, Tapping, The Vines, Thornlie, Treeby, Trigg, Tuart Hill
U: Upper Swan
V: Victoria Park
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Y: Yangebup, Yokine​