FAQs 

What type of language does Vanessa use when referring to Autistic and ADHD people? 

Vanessa recognises that everyone is on their own journey of self-understanding and believes that each person's preferred language for referring to themself as an individual, whether identity-first (e.g., Autistic, ADHDer) or person-first (e.g., person with Autism/ADHD), should be respected. You're always welcome to let her know which language feels right for you.

When someone has no preference, or when discussing Autistic and ADHD people more broadly, Vanessa uses identity-first language. Advocates of identity-first language often feel that it reflects being Autistic and/or ADHD as an inherent and worthy part of a person's identity, rather than a disorder they ‘have’. Several surveys have also found that identity-first language is preferred by the majority within the Autistic community in Australia, though we must recognise that individual preferences vary and all voices deserve respect.

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Language shapes how we understand ourselves and how others perceive us. Wherever possible, Vanessa avoids using pathologising terms like ‘autism spectrum disorder’ or ‘ASD’, and prefers ‘traits’ or ‘characteristics’ over ‘symptoms’, and ‘identified’ over ‘diagnosed’. These choices reflect her belief that the Autistic and ADHD neurodevelopmental profiles are not disorders to be 'cured', while recognising that Autistic and ADHD individuals do experience various degrees of disability, largely due to barriers arising from a world that wasn't designed for our brains and nervous systems. Vanessa hopes that the neurodiversity-affirming paradigm can help challenge the stigma and harm associated with the historical pathologisation of neurodivergent people, and cultivate a society where we feel understood, empowered, and accepted for who we are.

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What are the 'pros' and 'cons' of being formally identified as Autistic/AuDHD?

There are many reasons people seek formal assessment. Being formally identified at Autistic/AuDHD (if they meet the diagnostic criteria) can offer validation of their neurodivergent identity, improve confidence to self-identify with less imposter syndrome, provide an understanding of their unique profile of needs and behaviours, and help them to access to funding (e.g., NDIS, Centrelink) for necessary supports which have been missing in their lives for too long.

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​Some reasons people might be hesitant about formal identification include possible impacts or additional barriers to immigration, adopting/fostering, income protection insurance, entering certain professions (e.g., military), parental custody etc. ​It is very unfortunate that such stigma persists in our society. Until we see more changes that address these systemic issues, the above are important considerations when deciding whether or not you'd like to proceed with a formal assessment.

And remember, self-identification is also valid. 

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Are appointments with Vanessa online or in person?

​All appointments with Vanessa are conducted via Zoom. Vanessa is no longer able to provide in-person appointments.

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After Vanessa completes my assessment and finds I'm eligible to apply for NDIS funding, can her reports be used to support my NDIS application?

Yes. On request, Vanessa can provide reports tailored to support NDIS applications. The fee for this report is $500.

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Do I need a referral to see Vanessa?

Nope! You won't require a doctor's referral to access an assessment or therapy with Vanessa if you wish to pay privately.

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What funding or referral options does Vanessa accept?

Vanessa accepts the following clients:

• Self-referred / Privately paying

• Referred by a GP under the Better Access initiative (Medicare rebate is $149.05 for appointments ≥51 mins)

• Self-managed NDIS participants

• Plan-managed NDIS participants (currently at capacity)

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She is unable to assist clients who are:

• NDIA-managed NDIS participants

• Funded through Workers’ Compensation or Transport Accident Commission (TAC)

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Can I claim Medicare rebates for assessments?

If you are under 25 years old: You may be able to access the Medicare rebate for your Autism assessment if you have a referral from a paediatrician or psychiatrist. Unfortunately, you will not be able to obtain this referral from a GP.  

​If you are over 25 years old, Medicare does not allow the claiming of rebates for your assessment. This means that you will not need a GP referral.

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​Can Vanessa prescribe medication?

No, psychologists cannot prescribe medication. If you would like to explore your suitability for medication, please make an appointment with a psychiatrist experienced in supporting neurodivergent adults.​​