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Mosaic Stones

ADHD and Autism assessments

Daniella provides comprehensive, trauma-informed and neuro-affirming assessments of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism (or Autistic functioning) which includes exploration of:

  • Attention and concentration differences 

  • Empathy and social functioning 

  • Sensory sensitivities 

  • Trauma history and impacts on functioning 

  • Mood and worry

  • Mental health and psychological difficulties 

  • Hormonal functioning for those assigned female at birth

  • Cultural background and the impact(s) of expectations on functioning 

  • Masking or camouflaging of neurodivergent functioning 

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Assessment results include recommendations for maximising strengths and supporting areas of difficulty that are discussed at a feedback session, allowing you the opportunity to explore and understand the assessment process collaboratively with Daniella. 

 

Important note on comprehensive assessments: The assessment approach taken by Daniella includes consideration of possible co-occurring conditions or other explanations for functioning in addition to, or different from, ADHD and/or Autism. After the initial appointment, Daniella may recommend engaging in other psychological or medical assessments such as looking at mood or trauma, or engaging with an endocrinologist (e.g., for those assigned female at birth who may be experiencing the impacts of perimenopause or menopause on functioning that may look like symptoms of ADHD), to allow for a holistic and valid approach to assessment that captures the picture of functioning. â€‹â€‹

Neurodivergent functioning

Neurodivergent functioning occurs on a spectrum. Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism can co-occur, and psychological difficulties can co-occur with both. It is therefore important to screen for ADHD, Autism, and psychological difficulties when exploring neurodivergence to have a full picture of functioning.

What is ADHD?

ADHD refers to a neurodevelopmental difference in the way that the brain has developed and functions, which can include areas of great strength, including hyperfocus on topics or tasks of interest, and unique ways of seeing and interpreting patterns, as well as differences in attention, concentration, organisation and planning, for example. ADHD can look different in cisgender women, and in gender diverse individuals. The contexts in which we function are not typically created with neurodivergent brains in mind, and so people with ADHD brains may encounter difficulties navigating day-to-day tasks or situations.

What is Autism?

Autism refers to a neurodevelopmental difference in the way that the brain functions, which can include areas of great strength, including having a different perspective, special interests, and unique ways of seeing and interpreting patterns, as well as differences with, for example, automatically knowing and understanding social ‘rules’, or misunderstanding social intentions. The contexts in which we function are not typically created with neurodivergent brains in mind, and so people who are Autistic may encounter difficulties navigating day-to-day tasks or situations. Autistic functioning is understood currently as a ‘spectrum’, given that there are a range of diverse ways in which individuals who are autistic function. For more information, visit: https://www.autismawareness.com.au/adults

Masking and camouflaging in adulthood 

Adults with ADHD and/or who are Autistic typically show signs of this functioning during childhood given that both refer to a difference in brain development. However, for a range of reasons, it can be common to not have had neurodivergent functioning acknowledged or during childhood or early adulthood, especially given the developing understanding of neurodivergence. People may ‘mask’ their symptoms of ADHD, or ‘camouflage’ their Autistic functioning (purposefully or without realising it) through the strategies that they have developed over time. For example, using a fidget toy to occupy your hands whilst completing a university assessment or going through the ‘steps’ of a social interaction in your mind during a conversation. The development of such strategies is a testament to each person’s strength and resilience. Developing a deeper understanding of your own characteristics and unique patterns of thinking and behaviour can increase opportunities to maximise your strengths, have more compassion for yourself, and further support differences at home, work, university, and in relationships.

Neurodivergent functioning and mental health

Behaviours commonly associated with ADHD such as fidgeting or differences in attention or hyperfocus, or Autistic functioning, such as differences in social needs, or information processing may have been historically misunderstood by others at home, school, or work. For many people, this may have led to experiences of invalidation, shame, self-criticism, worry about performance or functioning, and/or difficulties with mood. These experiences can impact mental health, and change the way the person views themselves, others, and the world around them, which can lead to further difficulties with critical self-talk, worry, and mood.

What is involved in the assessment process?

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1. Questionnaires sent to you to complete online before the interview session to inform the assessment process.

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2. Initial assessment session online with Daniella (50 minutes) to discuss assessment needs and plan whether ADHD and/or Autism assessment(s) seem appropriate for you.

 

Questionnaires are also sent to a partner, parent, or close friend/relative, with your consent, to provide supporting information from an external perspective.

Online Conference

3. Assessment session(s) online (up to 2 hours each) with Daniella to assess your functioning and any co-occurring psychological difficulties. For assessment of ADHD and Autism, two separate assessment sessions are required.

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4. Feedback  session online with Daniella (30 minutes)  to discuss the results, any applicable diagnoses, and recommendations, as well as any questions you may have.

FAQs

What are the benefits of completing an ADHD and/or Autism assessment with a Clinical Psychologist?

Daniella is a Clinical Psychologist with a keen interest in taking a trauma-informed and neurodiversity-affirming approach to clinical assessment of ADHD and Autistic functioning in adults, to form a holistic picture of your unique ways of being, learning, and navigating the world. The assessment process aims to equip you with a deeper understanding of your functioning and personalised recommendations for maximising your strengths and supporting differences to manage life in a neurotypical world. Daniella is passionate about helping individuals to have a comprehensive understanding of themselves and their life narrative, to empower them to lead the life they want to live.
 

Daniella Saleme 

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Trauma-informed, person-centred, and ethical practice and training. 

©2025 by Daniella Saleme. All rights reserved.

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