Clear, Supportive Autism Assessments for Children, Teens and Adults

Autism Assessments in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie & East Maitland

At The Hummingbird Centre, we provide autism assessments in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, and East Maitland for children, adolescents, and adults.

If you’re looking for clarity, a formal autism diagnosis, or guidance on next steps, our team offers a structured, supportive process designed to help you understand what’s going on – and what will actually help moving forward.

Our assessments are completed by registered psychologists and clinical psychologists, using a neuroaffirming approach that respects each person’s unique way of thinking, communicating, and experiencing the world.

More about our autism assessments

Who Our Autism Assessments Are For

We provide autism assessments for:

  • Children with differences in communication, behaviour, or development
  • Teenagers navigating challenges with school, friendships, or emotional regulation
  • Adults seeking a late autism diagnosis or wanting to better understand themselves
  • Individuals and families exploring diagnosis for NDIS, school support, workplace adjustments, or personal insight

Whether you’re early in the process or have been wondering for a long time, we’ll meet you where you are.

Assessments

Why Choose The Hummingbird Centre for Autism Assessments

Choosing where to have an autism assessment is an important decision. We focus on making the process clear, respectful, and genuinely useful.

  • Assessments completed by psychologists and clinical psychologists
  • Experience supporting children, teens, and adults, including late diagnosis
  • Use of evidence-based tools such as ADOS-2 and MIGDAS
  • Neuroaffirming approach — focused on understanding, not just labelling
  • Detailed reports suitable for NDIS, school, and workplace support
  • Clear, practical recommendations tailored to real life

We aim to provide not just answers, but direction.

What’s Included in an Autism Assessment

Each autism assessment is tailored to the individual, but typically includes:

  • A detailed clinical interview covering developmental history and current concerns
  • Standardised tools such as ADOS-2 or MIGDAS, where appropriate
  • Input from parents, partners, or others (if relevant)
  • Review of existing reports (school, GP, allied health)
  • A comprehensive diagnostic report
  • A feedback session to explain outcomes and next steps

The process is adapted to suit age, communication style, and individual preferences.

Our Approach: Neuroaffirming and Practical

We take a neuroaffirming approach to autism assessment.

This means we focus on understanding:

  • how you process information
  • how you communicate
  • how you experience your environment

– not just identifying difficulties.

Alongside diagnostic outcomes, we highlight strengths, differences, and support needs, and provide recommendations that are realistic and relevant for everyday life.

The Autism Assessment Process

Initial Appointment

We start by understanding your history, current concerns, and goals. This helps determine whether a full autism assessment is the right next step.

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Assessment Sessions

We use structured assessment tools and clinical interviews to explore how autism may present across different areas of life.

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Information Gathering

Where appropriate, we gather additional perspectives and review existing documentation to ensure a well-rounded understanding.

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Report and Feedback

You’ll receive a detailed written report, followed by a feedback session where we explain the findings and talk through practical next steps.

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Meet the team members who can assist you with Assessments

Lachlan OConnor Clinical Psychologist
Newcastle

Lachlan O’Connor

Consultant Clinical Psychologist
Lachlan provides a warm, collaborative, and trauma-informed approach, grounded in evidence-based practice. He works with adults to develop effective coping strategies and confidently navigate barriers to living a fulfilling life….
Danyelle at The Hummingbird Centre, Newcastle Psychologist
Maitland, Newcastle

Danyelle Mastroianni

Psychologist
Danyelle is passionate about helping clients discover their authentic sense of self-understanding, self-compassion and self-acceptance through the safety…
Broadmeadow, Newcastle, Warners Bay

Mitch Pinchbeck

Consultant Psychologist
Mitch is passionate and dedicated in assisting his clients to resolve or better manage their mental health conditions, intense emotions, and life difficulties…
Eve ONeil Psychologist at Hummingbird Centre
Newcastle

Eve O’Neill

Registered Psychologist
Eve takes a warm and non-judgemental approach to therapy. She strives to create a safe, therapeutic space where clients can openly explore their emotions, challenges and experiences, working collaboratively to…
Nimra Bilgrami Clinical Psychologist
Warners Bay

Nimra Bilgrami

Consultant Clinical Psychologist
Nimra Bilgrami is a Clinical Psychologist who has experience in supporting children, adolescents and adults presenting with a variety of concerns…
Broadmeadow

Cinthia Galvez

Psychologist
Cinthia is a registered Psychologist who has a warm, empathetic, and caring approach with her clients. She is passionate about helping people to develop…
Newcastle

Ellen Browning

Psychologist
Ellen is an authentic and compassionate Psychologist, who understands there is no such thing as a ‘cookie cutter’ approach to therapy. She values working…
Newcastle

Amelia (Amy) Alker

Psychologist
Amelia is a kind and understanding psychologist who engages in a holistic, person-centered approach that focusses on helping you build the skills to overcome…
Caitlin Dempsey Psychologist at Newcastle Hummingbird Centre
Newcastle

Caitlin Dempsey

Clinical Psychology Registrar
A Newcastle local, Caitlin has always lived and worked on the lands of the Awabakal and Worimi peoples. Caitlin is a Clinical Psychology Registrar who has experience using cognitive behavioural…
Newcastle, Warners Bay

Naomi Dennett

Consultant Psychologist
Naomi is a empathetic, passionate and enthusiastic registered psychologist with 7 years’ experience working across the lifespan including, children…

What Is a Learning Assessment?

Autism Assessments in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie & East Maitland

We support individuals and families across:

  • Newcastle
  • Lake Macquarie
  • East Maitland

If you’re searching for an autism assessment in Newcastle or nearby areas, our team can guide you through the process and help you decide on the right pathway.

Fees, Availability and Funding

Assessment costs and timeframes vary depending on individual needs.

When you contact us, we’ll provide clear information about:

  • Current wait times
  • Fees and payment options
  • Medicare rebates (where applicable)
  • NDIS funding under Improved Daily Living

We’ll help you understand your options before you commit.

What Happens After an Autism Assessment?

After your assessment, you’ll receive a comprehensive report outlining:

  • Diagnostic outcomes
  • Key strengths and differences
  • Practical recommendations

This report can support:

  • NDIS applications
  • School supports and learning plans
  • Workplace adjustments
  • Access to therapy or further support

We’ll guide you through what to do next so you’re not left figuring it out alone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Autism Assessment FAQs

How do I get an autism assessment in Newcastle?

To get an autism assessment in Newcastle, you can contact The Hummingbird Centre directly to book an initial appointment. A referral is not always required. We’ll guide you through the process and confirm whether a full assessment is appropriate for your situation.

The cost of an autism assessment in Newcastle varies depending on the assessment pathway and individual needs. Contact The Hummingbird Centre for current pricing, wait times, and available payment options.

Yes, adults can access autism diagnosis in Newcastle. The Hummingbird Centre provides autism assessments for adults, including those seeking a late diagnosis to better understand themselves and access appropriate support.

Autism assessments and diagnoses are available through qualified psychologists. The Hummingbird Centre provides autism diagnosis services in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, and East Maitland.

An autism assessment typically includes a clinical interview, standardised tools such as ADOS-2 or MIGDAS, input from relevant people, and a comprehensive diagnostic report with recommendations.

Autism assessments are usually completed over multiple sessions, with additional time for scoring, analysis, and report writing. Timeframes vary depending on individual needs.

Yes, autism assessments may be funded through NDIS under Improved Daily Living, depending on your plan. We can help you understand whether funding applies in your situation.

In most cases, a formal autism diagnosis is required to access NDIS funding and supports. A comprehensive diagnostic report is typically needed as part of the application process.

Autism diagnoses in NSW are typically completed by qualified psychologists, clinical psychologists, or multidisciplinary teams trained in diagnostic assessment.

Children can be assessed for autism from a young age when developmental differences are observed. Assessments are adapted based on age and communication style.

Psychologist vs. Psychiatrist in Newcastle: Which Do You Need?

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At The Hummingbird Centre we endeavour to provide you with an experience that is empowering. Get in contact with us today to discuss!

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