Appointments
When you click the link to book an appointment, you will be taken to Cliniko, the secure practice management system used by Brain Kids. This is where appointments are booked and your child’s information is securely stored.
You can select an appointment time that suits you, and a $100 deposit is required at the time of booking.
All new patients need to select the New Patient Consultation option.
Before Your First Appointment
Once you have booked, you will receive Consent and Intake Forms by email.
These forms must be completed at least 2 days before your appointment.
If they are not received in time, your appointment may need to be postponed.
The Intake Form is comprehensive, with more than 100 questions about your child’s health, development, history and current concerns. Having this information before we meet saves hours of appointment time and allows us to spend our consultation focusing on what matters.
It will take some time to complete, so please do not leave it until the last minute!
You may also need to wrangle your child for a few minutes to complete the physical assessment. I understand the complexities of autism behaviours — just do your best. It does not need to be perfect.
Functional & Laboratory Testing
Sometimes laboratory or functional testing can provide greater insight into areas such as biochemistry, nutritional status, gut health, genetics and immune function. Testing is individualised. Some children may benefit from more than one test, and occasionally testing may be repeated after several months to assess changes.
Functional testing is privately billed, and some samples are sent overseas for analysis. These tests are not covered by Medicare or private health insurance.
You will never be expected to undertake functional testing if it is not financially achievable for your family. Some standard pathology can be requested through your child’s GP, and I can provide recommendations where appropriate.
And if your child cannot manage blood tests - this is VERY common. I understand and we will work our way around it.
Previous Test Results
You are welcome to provide previous laboratory and genetic testing that may be relevant to your child’s care. Older laboratory results often have limited relevance to your child’s current health. For this reason, previous results are reviewed selectively according to the type of test, when it was performed and its relevance to your child’s current presentation.
Genetic testing remains relevant regardless of when it was performed.
Only laboratory testing ordered through Brain Kids, specifically requested by me, or otherwise agreed upon will be formally reviewed and interpreted.
Clinical Review & Results Interpretation
Complex laboratory and functional testing requires considerable clinical review before your results appointment. This may involve reviewing individual biomarkers, identifying patterns and relationships between findings, comparing current and previous results, and interpreting these findings within the context of your child’s history, symptoms and existing treatment.
Clinical review and interpretation of complex laboratory, functional and genetic testing is charged separately from appointment time.
The fee is based on the complexity and time required for interpretation and will be advised where applicable. Complex results generally require a 60-minute Results/Follow-up Appointment. Short appointments are not available for complex results unless you have been advised otherwise.
Supplements
I am very selective about the supplements I recommend, particularly for children with autism. Quality, purity and safety matter. You are always welcome to discuss alternative products or more affordable options with me so that we can find an approach that works for your child and your family as a whole.
Communication Between Appointments
Communication outside appointments is limited, and email is preferred.
Clinical advice, treatment changes and interpretation of results require a scheduled appointment. This allows me to properly review your child’s case and provide considered, individualised advice.
Online Appointments
All appointments are conducted online or by telephone, allowing Brain Kids to work with families throughout Australia.
Your child does not have to be present for the appointment.
Appointment Fees
Comprehensive Initial Assessment
Up to 120 minutes | $590
$100 deposit payable at booking
All patients will be provided with an extensive, personalised plan following the initial appointment.
Intake Forms MUST be completed at least 2 days prior to your appointment to allow adequate time for review.
Follow-up Consultation
60 minutes | $220
Short Follow-up Consultation
30 minutes | $110