Getting Assessed for Intellectual Developmental Disorder (IDD)
Understanding Intellectual Developmental Disorder
Intellectual development disorders can impact various aspects of daily life, including learning, communication, and independence. At Psychological Assessments, we offer comprehensive evaluations to identify intellectual disabilities and help individuals access the support they need to thrive.
What is an Intellectual Development Disorder?
Intellectual Developmental Disorder (IDD, formerly Intellectual Disability) means someone learns and manages daily tasks like communication, managing time and money, and self-care at their own pace, which may be slower than typically expected. It impacts how the person thinks and understands, solves problems, and makes decisions. These challenges appear before the age of 18 and can vary in severity.
What are the Signs Someone has an Intellectual Development Disorder?
- Delays in reaching developmental milestones.
- Difficulty with problem-solving and abstract thinking.
- Challenges with communication, such as limited vocabulary or difficulty understanding complex instructions.
- Struggles with independent living skills, such as managing money or self-care.
- Social challenges include difficulty forming and maintaining relationships.
What Causes IDD?
- Genetics: Sometimes, a person is born with certain genes that can make learning harder for them.
- Illnesses: Serious infections can harm a person’s brain.
- During pregnancy: If a baby doesn’t grow the right way in the womb, or if the mother drinks alcohol or gets sick while pregnant, it can affect the baby’s brain.
- Poor nutrition or toxins: Not getting enough of the right foods or being around harmful substances like lead can affect how the brain works.
- Birth complications: If a baby is born too early or has problems during birth, like not enough oxygen, it can impact their brain.
- Injuries or strokes: If someone hurts their head badly or has a stroke while they are a child, it can damage parts of the brain that help with thinking and learning.
Self-Assessment: Take the quiz
The questions below offer a starting point for helping you identify if you may have ADHD and whether an assessment would be helpful. It is essential to realise that this test is not diagnostic and will not deliver a diagnosis. It is a tool to help you start your investigative journey by helping you identify possible symptoms. As other conditions can sometimes resemble ADHD, it is important to get properly assessed by a professional.

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Why Get Assessed for Intelectual Development Disorders?
Our comprehensive Intellectual Disability assessments help identify the specific intellectual or developmental disorders affecting you, leading to a better understanding of your condition. Understanding your condition allows for better coordination of support services, including therapy, educational interventions, and community resources. With a clear diagnosis and tailored support, you can manage challenges more effectively, leading to improved daily functioning and overall well-being.
Making Assessments As Easy As 1-2-3
We believe in making the assessment process as straightforward and supportive as possible. We’ve been on your side, either for ourselves, a loved one, or through work, and we want to make sure this part of the journey is as easy as possible and that the information you receive along the way is easy to understand and implement—as easy as 1-2-3!
Who Should Consider an IDD Assessment?
How to Prepare for an Assessment
Here are some tips to help you prepare for the assessment process.
Preparing Your Child
Preparing for a Child or Adult Assessment
What to Expect During the Assessment Process
Our assessments are designed to be comfortable, supportive, and thorough. We aim to create a calm and comfy atmosphere to make the experience as stress-free as possible. We hope children and adults find a safe, welcoming space to express themselves freely.
During the assessment, we’ll participate in various activities to help our team understand cognitive, behavioural, and emotional characteristics. These might include reading and writing tasks, phonological awareness exercises, and cognitive testing in a calm, supportive setting.
Intellectual disability assessments typically take 3–4 hours, depending on complexity.
Why Choose Psychological Assessments?
Client-Centered, Flexible Approach
At Psychological Assessments, we understand that every person’s needs are different. We adapt to your schedule and requirements, offering assessments in-clinic, in-home, or online.
Empathy and Expertise
Our highly qualified psychologists combine professional expertise with a real-life understanding of our clients' challenges. We take pride in creating a welcoming, nonjudgmental environment where everyone feels respected and supported.
Clear and Practical Insights
Our assessments go beyond reports—they provide actionable steps that make a real difference. We write in plain English so that everyone involved—from parents to teachers—can understand the recommendations and effectively put them into practice.
Community Engagement
We believe in giving back to our community, advocating for vulnerable groups, and providing accessible services. We also support other professionals through supervision and specialised training.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your top questions about our assessments answered.
What is an intellectual disability assessment?
An intellectual disability assessment evaluates cognitive and adaptive functioning to identify developmental challenges and guide support.
How do I know if I or my child needs an intellectual disability assessment?
An assessment may provide clarity if there are persistent challenges with learning, independence, or social interactions.
Does Medicare cover this assessment?
Medicare may cover certain components of an assessment if they are deemed medically necessary and conducted by a qualified healthcare professional. However, the extent of coverage can vary, and it’s best to consult with Medicare or your healthcare provider for specific details.
Does my private health insurance cover this assessment?
Private health insurance may cover part of the cost of an Intellectual Developmental Disorder assessment, depending on your policy and whether it includes coverage for psychological or developmental assessments. Check directly with your insurance provider to confirm your level of coverage and any applicable rebates.
Is this assessment covered by NDIS?
Yes, intellectual disability assessments are often covered by NDIS funding. Contact us to learn more.
How long does the assessment take?
Intellectual disability assessments typically take 3–4 hours, including testing and reporting.
How Can We Help?
At Psychological Assessments, we go beyond delivering a report—we provide practical tools, clear guidance, and compassionate support tailored to your unique situation. Whether it’s helping you access funding, creating learning strategies, or fostering independence, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
Contact our experienced team today to book an intellectual disability assessment or discuss your needs.