The Assessment Clinic

Helping you better understand your child

If you've been wondering whether your child may be Autistic, have ADHD, or is simply developing differently from their peers, you're not alone.

Many parents come to us because they've noticed differences in their child's behaviour, learning, communication, attention or social interactions. Sometimes concerns have been raised by a teacher, educator or health professional. Other times, it's simply a parent's intuition that something doesn't quite feel right.

At The Assessment Clinic at Macquarie Health Collective, our goal is to provide families with clarity, understanding and practical recommendations through comprehensive, evidence-based developmental assessments.

Our Approach

We believe an assessment should do more than answer the question of whether someone meets the criteria for a particular diagnosis.

While a diagnosis can provide important answers and help guide access to appropriate supports, our focus extends beyond diagnosis. We aim to build a comprehensive understanding of each person's unique strengths, differences and support needs, so you leave with greater clarity, practical recommendations, and confidence about the next steps.

Whether an assessment results in a diagnosis or not, many families tell us they leave with a much clearer understanding of their child and greater confidence in how to support them moving forward.

Why consider a developmental assessment?

Every child develops differently, but there are times when a formal assessment can provide valuable insight.

A developmental assessment may help if your child:

• is struggling socially or emotionally

• finds change or transitions particularly difficult

• has differences in communication or language

• has intense interests or repetitive behaviours

• experiences sensory sensitivities

• has difficulty with attention, concentration or impulsivity

• is experiencing challenges at school or preschool

• has been described as "different" but you're not sure why

• has been referred by your GP, paediatrician, school or allied health professional.

Seeking an assessment isn't about looking for what's "wrong". It's about gaining a better understanding of how your child experiences the world so they can receive the right support to thrive.

Assessments We Offer

The Assessment Clinic provides comprehensive assessments for a range of developmental and neurodevelopmental conditions.

Where families are seeking a broader understanding of their child's development, we provide comprehensive developmental assessments to explore areas of strength, identify areas requiring further support, and determine whether additional assessment or intervention may be beneficial.

These assessments available include:

Autism Assessments

Comprehensive Autism assessments incorporating clinical interviews, developmental history, questionnaires and the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2) where clinically indicated.

ADHD Assessments

Comprehensive ADHD assessments exploring attention, executive functioning, impulsivity and hyperactivity, alongside information gathered from parents, teachers and clinical observations.

If you're unsure which assessment is most appropriate, we're happy to discuss your concerns and guide you towards the most suitable assessment pathway.

What does the assessment process involve?

Every child is different, so assessments are tailored to the individual. However, the process generally includes:

Initial Consultation

We begin by getting to know your child and understanding your concerns. This includes gathering information about your child's development, medical history, education and current functioning.

Assessment Sessions

Depending on your child's needs, this may include clinical interviews, questionnaires, standardised assessment tools such as the ADOS-2, behavioural observations and other evidence-based assessment measures.

Comprehensive Report

Following the assessment, you'll receive a detailed written report outlining the findings, diagnostic conclusions (where appropriate) and practical recommendations for home, school and ongoing supports.

Feedback Appointment

We'll meet with you to explain the findings, answer your questions and discuss recommended next steps.

Why families choose The Assessment Clinic

Families choose Macquarie Health Collective because they value assessments that are both clinically thorough and genuinely compassionate.

Assessments are conducted by Tanya Forster, Registered Psychologist and Founder of Macquarie Health Collective.

With over 15 years' experience supporting children and families, Tanya combines evidence-based assessment practices with a warm, collaborative approach, helping families feel informed and supported throughout the assessment process.

Her focus extends beyond diagnosis. Every assessment aims to provide meaningful insights that help children better understand themselves and access the supports they need to thrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Make an Enquiry

If you're wondering whether an assessment may be helpful, we'd love to hear from you.

Complete the enquiry form on this page and our team will be in touch to discuss your concerns and help determine the most appropriate assessment pathway.

Alternatively, you're welcome to contact our friendly reception team on 6882 7113 to book an appointment or obtain further information.