Functional Assessments: The assessment to support informed decision making

Whether you are a parent or a support coordinator, we understand that managing NDIS supports well for the child, young person or family you have is a priority. From balancing budget needs to finding reliable referral options and accessing high quality services, at See Hear Speak Psychology, we aim to assist with all these goals.

Our Functional Assessments are comprised of a two-step process (as depicted in the below flow chart):
Step 1. Assessment of current functioning assists in understanding emotional, behavioural and cognitive functioning for the child or young person which allows clinicians to make an informed decision with you about the necessity of further diagnostic assessment and any areas that your child may need extra support.

Step 2. If the findings of the Functional Assessment indicate that the young person may need diagnostic assessment, we can provide further diagnostic assessment and reporting that may result in a formal diagnosis for them. If the Functional Assessment indicates that no further investigation is necessary, this step does not go ahead, therefore saving you the time and costs associated with further assessment.

Using our model for integrated Functional Assessments we can deliver:

-          A high-quality report that assists in identifying needs and ensuring appropriate and effective recommendations.

-           ‘Bang for your buck’; Our functional assessments can save both time and money if further recommendation or needs exist for a diagnostic assessment.

-          Set children and young people up with continuity of care from assessment to intervention with consistency in the same practice.

Our integrated Functional Assessments are specifically focused on understanding the psychosocial needs of children and adolescents. They are developed in consultation with teachers, other allied health professionals and Coordinators of Supports (COS). We believe that comprehensive stakeholder consultation ensures accuracy and consistency in reports as well and serves to maintain holistic care and collaboration for the benefit of the young person we are all supporting. 

Our integrated Functional Assessments will clearly outline whether further diagnostic assessment (for example for Autism, ADHD or Learning Difficulty) may or may not be required. Key needs for children and adolescents are prioritised and recommendations identify effective evidence-based strategies to assist them and assist NDIS planners to respond with appropriate funding options.

If you would like to enquire further about how our report can help your participants, please contact us .