Getting diagnosed in Brisbane
I am an adult living in Australia, and would like to know what is the best way to get a diagnosis? I have been unemployed for a long time, so cost is a major factor. Any advice on whether it's cheaper to see a psychiatrist or a psychologist, if there's a bulk-billed option, any names of ASD specialized psychiatrists in Brisbane (that people have dealt with personally) and so on would be appreciated. (Or psychiatrists interstate who would offer tele-health assessments). I have some general information, but would love to hear from someone who's gone through the process as an adult, especially if on limited funds.
Thanks. Yes, Tony Attwood is great. I've been checking out his podcasts and books. My main problem is in finding some route to diagnosis that is remotely affordable. I can see how fully employed parents of a child should be able to afford $2000+ for an assessment, but how is an adult who has struggled through frequent under- or unemployment expected to find the means? The government provides financial help after diagnosis, but the problem is the first hurdle.
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子曰:「君子不器」《論語.為政篇》
Go to your GP, tell him you think you may be autistic, and ask for a mental health plan.
Complete the assessment for mental health.
If you suffer from anxiety, depression, or other disorders related to autism, this should be easy.
You will get 6? subsidised visits to a psychologist, make sure it's a psychologist who specialises in autism diagnosis (Minds and Hearts in Brisbane or clinic of your choice.)
I ended up paying around $60 a visit.
It cost about double that for the report, so about $360 for everything.
Make sure you tell them from the outset that you're seeking diagnosis.
Alternatively, some universities offer diagnosis as training for psychology postgraduate students for free.
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It's like I'm sleepwalking
Thanks, Raleigh, that's a great idea!
I looked into going through the University of Queensland, who offer assessments, but unfortunately they only cater to those under 26 yrs old. Griffith Uni (Gold Coast campus) also offer assessments, but I think they cost (from memory) about $1400.
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子曰:「君子不器」《論語.為政篇》
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