Psychologist vs Paediatrician Assessments for Autism: What Parents Need to Know

When you’re starting the journey of seeking an Autism assessment for your child or teenager, it can feel overwhelming. Two of the most common professionals involved are psychologists and paediatricians. Both play important roles, but their assessments look quite different. Understanding these differences can help you feel more confident and informed as you navigate the process.

The Role of a Psychologist

Psychologists focus on developmental, learning, emotional, and behavioural functioning. Their assessment usually includes:

• Background history and development: Looking at birth history, milestones, health concerns, and family history.

• Standardised testing: Tools such as the ADOS (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule), ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview), or Conners scales to measure social communication, attention, and behaviour.

• Cognitive testing: Looking at how your child learns, problem solves, and processes information (often using assessments like the WISC-V).

• Emotional and social understanding: Exploring strengths and challenges in relationships, play, regulation, and coping skills.

• Parent and teacher input: Gathering a full picture of how your child behaves across settings.

Psychologists typically spend more time with the child (often several hours over multiple sessions) and provide a detailed written report with practical recommendations for school, home, and therapy supports.

The Role of a Paediatrician

Paediatricians are medical doctors who specialise in children’s health. Their role in an Autism assessment is often more focused on:

• Medical history and development: Looking at birth history, milestones, health concerns, and family history.

• Physical examination: Checking for medical or neurological conditions that might affect development.

• Screening for co-occurring conditions: Such as ADHD, sleep problems, epilepsy, or other health needs.

• Referral and coordination: Paediatricians often refer families to psychologists, speech pathologists, and occupational therapists for formal testing.

Their appointment is usually shorter and more focused on ruling out other causes and confirming whether the

criteria for Autism are met in combination with allied health assessments.

Key Differences

• Depth vs breadth: Psychologists provide in-depth developmental testing; paediatricians provide broader medical oversight.

• Time with child: Psychologist assessments involve hours of structured tasks; paediatrician assessments are usually shorter consultations.

• Report style: Psychologists offer detailed recommendations; paediatricians give medical confirmation and referrals.

• Collaboration: In many cases, both professionals work together, with the paediatrician confirming the diagnosis and the psychologist providing the functional assessment.

  
  

Why Both May Be Needed

In Australia, for example, many services (including the NDIS and some schools) require a team approach:

• A paediatrician or psychiatrist (medical confirmation), and

• A psychologist and/or speech pathologist (developmental testing and functional assessment).

This ensures that both the medical and developmental/functional aspects are considered.

Final Thoughts for Parents

If you’re unsure where to start, speak with your GP. They can help you decide whether your child should first see a paediatrician or begin with a psychologist. In most cases, both professionals will eventually be part of the process.

Remember:

• Psychologists help you understand how your child thinks, learns, and relates.

• Paediatricians help you understand the medical and developmental context.

Together, they provide the most complete picture to support your child’s needs at home, school, and in the community.