In regional and rural NSW, such as the Central West (such as Cowra, Grenfell, Forbes and West Wyalong) and part of the rural Riverina area it is difficult to access ASD diagnosis and testing.
ASD testing is a careful procedure and Riverina Counselling will be looking to offer this later in the year to local clients. This usually involves a number of other tests, such as a parent interviews and behaviour testing before an accurate diagnosis can be considered.
It is also imperative to engage a Peadatrician for children and young adults under 18 or a Psychiatrist if over 18. This is due to the fact they will take the testing materials and put them together to form an accurate and comprehensive diagnosis.
This may then open doorways to additional funding streams, educational support ect. However, as I mention to all parents and assessment doesn’t mean a person will meet criteria for diagnosis. This should be discussed with the assessing therapist prior to assessment around cost and expectations.
Riverina Counselling also provides ongoing telehealth support for young people and adults with neurodivergence. This can be done privately or through an NDIS packages to access therapy services.