Can a Clinical Psychologist Diagnose Autism?
Yes.
A Clinical Psychologist is qualified to assess and diagnose Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) using a comprehensive, evidence-based assessment process.

At Belong Health, autism assessments are completed by a Clinical Psychologist and may include:

• Developmental history
• Parent and teacher questionnaires
• Clinical interviews
• Standardised tools such as ADOS-2
• Adaptive functioning assessment
• Cognitive assessment where appropriate
• Clinical interpretation and report writing

A diagnosis is only made where a person meets diagnostic criteria.

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Does the NDIS Require a Paediatrician for Autism Diagnosis?
Not always.

The NDIS recognises autism evidence from appropriately qualified professionals. NDIS information refers to diagnosis by an appropriately qualified multidisciplinary team, paediatrician, psychiatrist, or Clinical Psychologist.

This means a paediatrician is not always required for an autism diagnosis to be considered by the NDIS.

However, every NDIS access request is assessed individually. In some situations, the NDIS may request additional information or supporting reports.

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Why Do Some Families Still See a Paediatrician?

Some families choose to involve a paediatrician because:

• A school or service has requested additional documentation
• The child has complex medical or developmental needs
• There are concerns about medication, sleep, feeding, seizures, or other medical factors
• A multidisciplinary assessment pathway has been recommended

A paediatrician may provide additional medical input, but this does not mean every child requires a paediatrician before an autism assessment can occur.

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What About School Funding or Education Department Requirements?

Schools and education systems may have their own documentation requirements for funding, adjustments, or formal support processes.
In some situations, schools may request:

• A psychology report
• A paediatrician letter
• Multidisciplinary assessment information
• Functional information from allied health professionals

Requirements can vary depending on the system, school, and purpose of the report.
If your main goal is school-based funding or adjustments, it is helpful to check what documentation the school requires before booking an assessment.

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Is a Single-Clinician Autism Assessment Still Useful?

Yes.
A comprehensive Clinical Psychology assessment can provide valuable information about:

• Whether a person meets diagnostic criteria for Autism
• Social communication and interaction
• Developmental history
• Adaptive functioning
• Strengths and support needs
• Practical recommendations for home and school

This report can often support planning, referrals, and may assist with school discussions and NDIS-related documentation.
In some cases, it may also form part of a broader multidisciplinary pathway.

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Does the NDIS Only Look at Diagnosis?

No.
The NDIS considers more than diagnosis alone.

​NDIS evidence often needs to describe functional impact across areas such as:

• Communication
• Social interaction
• Learning
• Mobility
• Self-care
• Self-management

It may also include emotional regulation, daily routines, and participation in home, school, and community environments.

This is why functional information in an assessment report is important.

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How Belong Health Supports Families

Belong Health provides comprehensive autism assessments with our Clinical Psychologist.
Our reports are designed to include:

• Assessment findings
• Diagnostic considerations
• Functional impact
• Strengths and support needs
• Practical recommendations

Where additional medical or multidisciplinary input is required, families may choose to provide the psychology report to a paediatrician, psychiatrist, school, or other professional.

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Important Information
​

• A Clinical Psychologist can diagnose Autism where criteria are met
• The NDIS may consider autism diagnoses from Clinical Psychologists, paediatricians, psychiatrists, or multidisciplinary teams
• Additional evidence may still be requested depending on the situation
• School or education requirements may vary
• Reports support planning but do not guarantee NDIS access, funding, or school adjustments

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Not Sure Which Pathway Is Right?

If you are unsure whether to book a Clinical Psychology assessment, speak with a paediatrician, or gather additional documentation first, our team can help guide you.

We recommend checking the requirements of the organisation you are applying to where possible, especially for NDIS, school funding, or formal support processes.

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Learn More

Learn More ABOUT PSYCHOLOGY ASSESSMENTS

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Related Support Guides

We’ve created a range of free guides to support families exploring related areas depending on their child's needs
These guides can help you better understand your child’s needs, explore your concerns, and consider what next steps may be helpful.

Learn more about Autism support

Learn More about Autism vs ADHD vs Developmental Delay

Learn more about learning difficulties

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Related Support Services

• Occupational Therapy
• Speech Pathology
• Positive Behaviour Support
• Counselling

free 20min connect Session
with our clinical psychologist

If you’re unsure whether an assessment is the right next step, we offer a Free 20-minute Meet & Greet call with our Clinical Psychologist.

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Frequently Asked Questions about NDIS and Autism Diagnosis

What happens in a multidisciplinary autism assessment?
A multidisciplinary assessment involves multiple professionals working together to understand a child’s development, communication, behaviour, and daily functioning. This may include a Clinical Psychologist, Speech Pathologist, Occupational Therapist, and/or Paediatrician, depending on the child’s needs.

What is a multidisciplinary approach to autism?
A multidisciplinary approach means gathering information from different professionals to build a more comprehensive understanding of a child’s strengths, needs, and support requirements.

Does every child need a multidisciplinary autism assessment?
Not always. Some children may receive a diagnosis through a comprehensive Clinical Psychology assessment. In other situations, additional input from other professionals may be recommended depending on the child’s needs or requirements from schools or funding bodies.

Can a paediatrician diagnose autism?
Yes. Paediatricians can diagnose autism. Autism diagnoses may also be completed by Clinical Psychologists, psychiatrists, or multidisciplinary teams.

Can a Clinical Psychologist diagnose autism?
Yes. A Clinical Psychologist is qualified to assess and diagnose Autism Spectrum Disorder using a comprehensive, evidence-based assessment process.

Can a paediatrician diagnose ADHD in Australia?
Yes. Paediatricians and psychiatrists can diagnose ADHD in Australia. Clinical Psychologists can assess for ADHD and provide detailed reports, but medical professionals are typically required for medication decisions.

Can a paediatrician diagnose intellectual disability?
Paediatricians may contribute to assessment and diagnosis, particularly where medical or developmental factors are involved. Diagnosis typically involves cognitive and adaptive functioning assessments completed by qualified professionals such as psychologists.

When should a child see a paediatrician?
A child may see a paediatrician if there are concerns about development, medical needs, behaviour, sleep, feeding, or if medication or medical input is being considered.

What are early signs of autism in children?
Early signs may include differences in social interaction, communication, play, sensory responses, and flexibility with routines. These signs can vary widely between children.

What are common signs of ADHD in children?
Signs may include difficulties with attention, impulsivity, hyperactivity, emotional regulation, and challenges with organisation or following instructions.

What conditions can look similar to ADHD in children?
Other factors such as anxiety, sensory processing differences, sleep difficulties, trauma, or learning differences can sometimes present with similar behaviours. A comprehensive assessment helps clarify this.

What are early signs of intellectual disability?
Signs may include delays in learning, communication, problem-solving, or daily living skills. A formal assessment is needed to determine whether diagnostic criteria are met.

What is an MDT assessment for autism?
An MDT (Multidisciplinary Team) assessment for autism involves multiple clinicians contributing information to support diagnosis and understanding of the child’s needs.

Why might a child be referred for a multidisciplinary assessment?
A multidisciplinary assessment may be recommended when:

• There are complex needs
• Multiple developmental areas are impacted
• Additional evidence is required for NDIS or school supports
• A broader understanding of the child is needed

Who is involved in a multidisciplinary team (MDT)?
An MDT may include a Clinical Psychologist, Speech Pathologist, Occupational Therapist, Paediatrician, and sometimes other professionals depending on the child’s needs.

How do I prepare for a multidisciplinary assessment?
Preparation may include gathering reports, completing questionnaires, providing developmental history, and sharing information from school or other professionals.

What is the difference between autism and ADHD?
Autism and ADHD are different neurodevelopmental conditions, although they can overlap. Autism relates to differences in social communication, sensory processing, and patterns of behaviour, while ADHD involves attention, impulsivity, and regulation differences.

What age can autism be diagnosed?
Autism can be identified in early childhood, often from around 2 years of age, although some children are identified later depending on presentation and support needs.

What age can ADHD be diagnosed?
ADHD is often identified in early school years, but signs may be present earlier. Assessment timing depends on the child’s development and presentation.

Is there a “mild” form of autism?
Autism is a spectrum, and experiences vary widely. Instead of focusing on “mild” or “severe,” it is more helpful to understand a person’s strengths, support needs, and functional impact.

Can children’s needs change over time?
Yes. A child’s strengths, challenges, and support needs can change over time. Ongoing support and review can help ensure strategies remain appropriate.

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Our guides provide practical strategies to support children facing these challenges. To further enhance your approach, consider our Home Therapy Packs, designed to engage children and improve focus at home.
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O: O'connor, Ocean Reef, Orange Grove, Osborne Park
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V: Victoria Park
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Y: Yangebup, Yokine​