Diagnostic reports and NDIS reports... What's the difference and how can a Gold Coast Psychologist help?

When navigating the world of ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) and ADHD (Attention Deficit Disorder), you will commonly come across two types of documentation: the Diagnostic Report and the NDIS Report. Understanding the difference between these reports can assist you in accessing the right supports, but navigating this new realm can be overwhelming.

An NDIS report from a Gold Coast psychologist and a diagnostic report serve different purposes and contain distinct types of information.

The below frequently asked questions aim to help you understand the importance and difference of both reports, and the role they play in the treatment of your ASD and/or ADHD.

A Diagnostic Report provides a formal diagnosis of a mental health or developmental condition following a comprehensive Psychological Assessment. Diagnostic reports provide a detailed analysis of an individual’s specific condition, informing an accurate diagnosis and assisting to provide a tailored treatment plan, addressing the unique needs of the individual.

The Psychological Assessment involves gathering information from the individual, and sometimes their family or teachers depending on their age. The assessment involves asking details about the individual’s symptoms, current behavioural patterns, and other relevant background details such as the history of the condition and medical history. Through various standardized tests, the individual’s cognitive abilities and executive functioning is assessed, and rating scales and questionnaires are used to assess symptoms and behaviours.

What is a diagnostic report?

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Reports differ in the way that they are primarily developed to support an individual’s application, continuation, and/or modification of an NDIS plan.

NDIS reports include the individual’s specific goals, NDIS plan recommendations to achieve these goals, and any progress and outcomes of current services that are contributing to the goals. These reports provide evidence and justification for the level of support and funding required for the individual, which informs NDIS planners on the allocation of funds and services.

When conducted by a psychologist, NDIS reports for funding purposes must include a Functional Capacity Assessment (FCA), which is a detailed analysis of how the individual’s disability impacts their daily activities. An FCA must outline the activities the individual can’t complete, evidence of how their disability impacts the completion of these activities, and the type and frequency of assistance required to complete these activities.

Diagnostic reports do not always include an FCA which is why a separate NDIS report is required to access NDIS funding.

What is an NDIS Report?

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Reports differ in the way that they are primarily developed to support an individual’s application, continuation, and/or modification of an NDIS plan.

NDIS reports include the individual’s specific goals, NDIS plan recommendations to achieve these goals, and any progress and outcomes of current services that are contributing to the goals. These reports provide evidence and justification for the level of support and funding required for the individual, which informs NDIS planners on the allocation of funds and services.

When conducted by a psychologist, NDIS reports for funding purposes must include a Functional Capacity Assessment (FCA), which is a detailed analysis of how the individual’s disability impacts their daily activities. An FCA must outline the activities the individual can’t complete, evidence of how their disability impacts the completion of these activities, and the type and frequency of assistance required to complete these activities.

Diagnostic reports do not always include an FCA which is why a separate NDIS report is required to access NDIS funding.

How do I know if I’m eligible for NDIS support?

There are many steps and criteria to accessing NDIS support, and not all conditions or diagnoses are eligible. The following eligibility criteria are absolute, and must be met by all participants:

Unfortunately, ADHD, alone, is not recognised by the NDIS as a disability. This means that without a recognised/co-existing diagnosis - you are not eligible to access NDIS for ADHD.

ASD level 2 and 3 diagnoses are eligible for NDIS funding. An ASD level 1 diagnosis will need extensive evidence showing how it affects the individual’s everyday life. A multi-disciplinary approach may be required, in this case.

If you’re unsure whether your diagnosis is considered permanent, the button below provides a list of conditions that are likely to be eligible by the NDIS.

A Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) referral is a document provided by your GP or other healthcare provider to access more in-depth support from a mental health specialist such as a psychologist, psychiatrist, or counsellor. While the plans may state an individual’s mental health condition or diagnosis, they don’t provide a comprehensive analysis about how the condition or diagnosis impairs the individual’s everyday functioning. The NDIS requires a comprehensive analysis of how the individual’s diagnosis impacts their ability to engage in day-to-day activities, and therefore MHCPs are not adequate evidence.

Our neuro-affirming psychology clinic in Burleigh Heads, Gold Coast offers ADHD and Autism assessments for children, teens, and adults and will be happy to assist you with navigating this journey.

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 At The Neurodiverse Network, we’re a neuro-affirming psychology clinic based in Burleigh Heads, Gold Coast, offering ADHD and Autism assessments, therapy, and NDIS supports for children, teens, and adults.

Our team of psychologists provide neurodiversity-affirming care, recognising and celebrating the strengths of every individual.

We provide a range of services including:

• ADHD assessments and therapy for adults and children

• Autism assessments and support across the lifespan

• Individual counselling and emotional regulation support

• NDIS psychology and functional capacity assessments

• Neurodiverse support groups and online workshops

  
  

Our psychologists draw on lived experience and evidence-based approaches to create a space where neurodivergent people feel safe, understood, and empowered.

Whether you’re seeking a Clinical Psychologist on the Gold Coast, a neuro-affirming therapist near Burleigh Heads, or NDIS support, our team is here to help you navigate your journey with compassion and clarity.

Located in Burleigh Heads on the Gold Coast — close to Miami, Palm Beach, Robina, and Varsity Lakes.

Learn more about our neuro-affirming care or book an ADHD or Autism assessment here.