Frequently Asked Questions

  • At Calma Psychology, we use the MIGDAS-2 (Monteiro Interview Guidelines for Diagnosing the Autism Spectrum). The MIGDAS-2 is a neurodiversity-affirming, strength-based diagnostic interview that supports a compassionate and contextual understanding of the individual’s communication style, sensory profile, and social-emotional functioning. It is particularly well-suited for individuals who may not fit conventional or deficit-focused diagnostic models.

  • Our autism assessments are comprehensive and collaborative, involving:

    • Clinical interview with the client (and/or caregivers)

    • MIGDAS-2 interview and sensory-based exploration

    • Questionnaires completed by caregivers, teachers, or other relevant informants

    • Review of developmental history, school reports, or existing assessments

    • A written diagnostic report including recommendations and a feedback session

  • The assessment process usually involves 3–4 sessions over a few weeks:

    • Initial intake (1 hour)

    • MIGDAS and observational sessions (1–2 hours)

    • Report writing and scoring

    • Feedback session (1 hour)

      Total time commitment: approximately 6–8 hours including scoring and report writing.

  • A neuroaffirming assessment recognises autism as a valid neurodevelopmental identity, not a deficit to be “fixed.” It focuses on strengths, individual differences, and sensory experiences rather than purely diagnostic criteria. At Calma Psychology, we respect lived experience, affirm neurodivergent identities, and aim to empower our clients with understanding and language that reflects who they are.

ADHD Assessments

  • Yes. Our ADHD assessments are designed to explore attentional differences, executive functioning, and self-regulation. They typically include:

    • Clinical interviews and developmental history

    • Behavioural and emotional screeners (e.g., Conners 4, Vanderbilt)

    • Collaboration with parents, educators, and other professionals

    • Formal report and feedback session with tailored recommendations

  • An ADHD assessment includes:

    • Initial clinical intake

    • ADHD-specific questionnaires for client and caregivers

    • Cognitive screening tools where appropriate

    • Review of school and medical history

    • Diagnostic formulation and report writing

    • Feedback session with recommendations for supports or accommodations

Therapy and Psychological Support

  • Neuroaffirming therapy respects and celebrates neurodiversity. It avoids pathologising differences in thinking, feeling, or relating. At Calma Psychology, we tailor therapy to support clients in understanding themselves, navigating systems, regulating emotions, and developing meaningful goals—without imposing a norm-based framework.

  • We offer a range of evidence-based, compassionate therapies including:

    • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Helps clients identify and change unhelpful thought patterns and behaviours.

    • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Encourages psychological flexibility, values-driven living, and mindfulness.

    • Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT): Supports emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal skills.

    • Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR): An evidence-based approach for trauma that helps reprocess distressing memories in a safe and structured way.

    • Play-based and creative therapies, supporting emotional expression, sensory regulation, and communication.

Fees and Medicare

  • Yes. If you have a Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP, you may be eligible for Medicare rebates for up to 10 psychology sessions per calendar year. Your GP will determine if you’re eligible and provide a referral letter.

  • Medicare does not currently offer rebates for standard diagnostic assessments for autism or ADHD unless conducted through a paediatrician or psychiatrist. However, you may be eligible for rebates through NDIS, private health insurance, or educational support funding, depending on your circumstances.

  • To begin your journey with Calma Psychology:

    • Reach out via our Contact Form or email

    • We’ll offer a free 15-minute consultation to ensure we’re the right fit

    • Once confirmed, we’ll schedule your first session or assessment intake

  • Therapy sessions are typically 50 minutes. Initial sessions may run slightly longer to allow time for rapport building and understanding your history.

If you would like to organise a consultation, please fill out the contact form or email at ana@calmapsychology.com.au