No, you do not need a referral. You can make an appointment directly without a referral from your GP or a paediatrician or psychiatrist. If you proceed without a referral you will pay the full amount out of pocket and will not be eligible for a Medicare rebate.

If things feel harder than they should — with attention, learning, emotions, behaviour, or relationships — an assessment can help clarify what's going on. If you're unsure, complete the enquiry form and we'll help you figure out whether an assessment is the right step.

That's very common. An initial conversation with our team can help determine the most appropriate assessment pathway based on your concerns and goals. You can also combine assessments if you want us to answer multiple questions at once.

We assess children aged 6 and above, adolescents, and adults. If you have a child under 6 and are concerned about development, please contact us to discuss the most appropriate pathway.

In Australia, psychologists and other health professionals are not permitted to use client testimonials. This rule protects client privacy and avoids creating unrealistic expectations about outcomes. The first session is a better opportunity to get a genuine sense of whether our approach feels right for you.

A structured process that includes a clinical interview, review of medical and educational records, questionnaires completed by parents, teachers, or the individual, and standardised testing. The process is designed to understand how you or your child thinks, learns, and functions day-to-day — not just to produce a label.

ADHD, autism (ASD), specific learning disorders (including dyslexia), IQ and cognitive assessments, and broader cognitive and emotional profiles. Our psychologists are also able to take into account complex social factors and life experiences that may overlap with neurodevelopmental and learning presentations.

Session length varies depending on the assessment type. Typically an intake session is 1.5–2 hours and a testing session is also 1.5–2 hours. Your psychologist will clarify the expected duration before your appointment.

Typically completed over a few sessions, with a detailed written report provided afterwards. Timeframes can vary depending on the complexity of the presentation and which assessments are being completed.

Generally, no special preparation is needed. You may be asked to complete questionnaires beforehand. For children, arrive well-rested and having eaten. Bring any relevant school reports, previous assessments, or medical records that may be useful.

No. The tasks completed during assessment are designed to measure your natural approach to different types of problems. There is nothing to study or prepare — performing naturally gives the most accurate result.

Explain the process in simple, reassuring terms — emphasising that it's to help understand and support them better. Avoid the word "test" and use "activities" or "games" instead. Reassure them they are not in trouble. If it helps, show photos of the clinic beforehand so the environment feels familiar. Your child is also welcome to bring a favourite toy or comfort item to help them feel at ease.

Some components — such as clinical interviews and certain questionnaires — can be completed online. However, standardised testing components generally produce the most accurate results when completed in person. We'll discuss what works best for your situation.

An assessment is the process — a structured evaluation of strengths, challenges, and functioning. A diagnosis is one possible outcome of that process, based on whether the results meet established clinical criteria. Not all assessments result in a formal diagnosis, but all assessments produce meaningful, actionable information.

Not always. Sometimes the outcome is greater clarity about strengths and challenges without meeting criteria for a formal diagnosis — but still with helpful, practical recommendations. Understanding what's going on is valuable regardless of whether a diagnostic label applies.

You'll receive a detailed written report and a feedback session to walk through the findings, explain what they mean in practical terms, and discuss recommended next steps. The goal is clarity — not just a document.

Our assessments use evidence-based, standardised tools alongside clinical judgement to provide a thorough and reliable picture of strengths and challenges. Every assessment at CAYA Psychology is completed by a registered psychologist and reviewed under direct clinical supervision.

Yes. Reports can often be used to support adjustments, accommodations, funding applications, or workplace modifications. We write reports with this in mind — clear, practical, and useful to the people who will act on the recommendations.

You will need to make an appointment with your Paediatrician or Psychiatrist who will assess whether you are eligible for a Complex Neurodevelopmental Disorder and Disability Services Plan. This plan is available for people under 25 years of age. Bring a copy of your referral to your first appointment to claim the rebate.

The NDIS may fund developmental assessments and reports that support a formal diagnosis for neurodevelopmental conditions. Speak to your Plan Manager or Support Coordinator to confirm whether this applies to your plan and funding category.

Yes. You will need to check with your insurer whether your policy covers psychological assessment and to what level. We can provide the documentation needed to make a claim.