Understanding Autism
At The Hummingbird Centre, we support individuals of all ages in exploring and understanding Autism through a neuroaffirming, evidence-based approach. We recognise Autism as a natural variation in how people think, feel, and connect – not something to be fixed, but understood and supported.
Autism is a neurodevelopmental difference that influences how a person processes information, relates to others, and experiences the world. Every Autistic person is unique, with their own strengths, interests, and support needs that can change across life.
Some people are diagnosed in early childhood; others only discover they are Autistic later in life – often after years of feeling different, misunderstood, or exhausted by masking.
Our goal at The Hummingbird Centre is to offer understanding, clarity, and tailored support that helps Autistic people and their families thrive.
Common Traits of Autism
Autism presents differently for everyone. Some common traits may include:
A strong preference for routine and predictability
Differences in social communication or understanding social cues
Deep focus on specific interests or topics
Sensory sensitivities (to sound, light, texture, or touch)
Strong values, empathy, and sense of justice
Creative, original, or highly detailed thinking
These are not deficits – they reflect diverse ways of engaging with and understanding the world.
Subtle Presentations and Masking
Autism is sometimes missed or misinterpreted, particularly in women, girls, and gender-diverse people, or those with strong coping and masking skills.
Masking means suppressing or hiding natural behaviours – like avoiding stimming, forcing eye contact, or mimicking social patterns – in order to fit in. While masking can help people navigate social spaces, it often leads to exhaustion, anxiety, and burnout.
Our clinicians are experienced in supporting individuals who may have subtle or internalised traits and are exploring whether they might be Autistic.
Autism Assessments
A formal Autism assessment can be an important and validating step in understanding yourself or your child. Assessments provide clarity, self-awareness, and can help access supports in school, university, work, or daily life.
At The Hummingbird Centre, our Autism assessments in Newcastle, Maitland, Broadmeadow, and Warners Bay are:
Neuroaffirming – focused on understanding, not labelling or fixing.
Respectful and collaborative – designed around each person’s needs, communication, and sensory preferences.
Comprehensive – including clinical interviews, developmental history, questionnaires, and observations.
We offer:
Child and adolescent Autism assessments
Adult Autism assessments (including late-identified and self-referred adults)
Combined Autism and ADHD assessments, where appropriate
Our team provides clear written reports and feedback sessions that help you understand the findings and next steps in accessing support.
How Therapy Can Help Autistic Individuals
Therapy for Autistic individuals focuses on understanding, acceptance, and well-being – not on changing who a person is. Our clinicians provide supportive, evidence-based approaches that can help with:
Developing emotional regulation and coping strategies
Managing anxiety, burnout, or sensory overload
Navigating social pressures and communication preferences
Building confidence, boundaries, and self-advocacy
Supporting daily routines and transitions
Therapy is always adapted to sensory and communication needs, moving at a pace that feels safe and collaborative.
Support Across the Lifespan
We provide Autism assessments and therapy for:
Children experiencing sensory or emotional regulation challenges
Teens exploring identity, school pressure, or social connections
Adults seeking clarity about lifelong traits or burnout
Parents and families needing guidance to support their child
Whether you’re starting to explore traits or seeking a formal diagnosis, The Hummingbird Centre is here to support your journey with understanding and respect.
Our Locations & Telehealth
The Hummingbird Centre provides Autism assessments and counselling across Newcastle, Maitland, Broadmeadow, Warners Bay, and Lake Macquarie, with telehealth Autism assessments available across NSW.
We also offer therapy and diagnostic services for co-occurring experiences such as ADHD, anxiety, and depression. All sessions – in person or online – are conducted in calm, sensory-considerate environments.
Getting Started & Referrals
You can contact The Hummingbird Centre directly to discuss assessment or therapy options.
A GP referral or Mental Health Care Plan may be useful if you are accessing therapy under Medicare rebates.
We also support:
NDIS (self-managed or plan-managed)
Private health insurance, including BUPA and other major funds
Our admin team can explain the process, fees, and funding options clearly.
FAQs about Autism & Assessments
What is Autism?
Autism is a neurodevelopmental difference that affects how a person experiences the world. It involves diverse ways of thinking, communicating, and processing information.
What is an Autism assessment?
An Autism assessment is a structured process to explore whether someone meets the criteria for Autism. It provides understanding, validation, and guidance for support.
Who can have an Autism assessment?
We provide Autism assessments for children, teens, and adults. Many adults seek assessments later in life for greater self-understanding.
How long does the assessment process take?
The process varies but usually involves an initial interview, questionnaires, assessment sessions, and feedback sessions over several weeks.
Do you offer Autism assessments online?
Yes. We offer telehealth Autism assessments NSW and in-person assessments in Newcastle, Maitland, Broadmeadow, Warners Bay, and Lake Macquarie.
How can therapy help Autistic individuals?
Therapy provides support for emotional regulation, anxiety, sensory processing, and self-understanding, while affirming each person’s identity.
Do I need a referral?
You can contact us directly or ask your GP, psychiatrist or paediatrician for a referral, especially if accessing Medicare rebates for therapy.
Is your approach neuroaffirming?
Yes. Our approach celebrates neurodiversity and focuses on understanding, acceptance, and practical support – never “fixing” or changing identity.
