Stream B | Lunch time session
Tracks
Track 2 | Shaping the future of assessment
| Friday, February 13, 2026 |
| 1:30 PM - 2:00 PM |
| Ballroom B |
Overview
Bridging gaps in complex assessments for neurodivergent NDIS participants (30min PRES) Gizelle Tadros
Speaker
Mrs Gizelle Tadros
Senior Psychologist
Interaction Disability Services
Bridging gaps in complex assessments for neurodivergent NDIS participants
1:30 PM - 2:00 PMSubmission/ Abstract
This presentation aims to showcase an innovative, multimodal approach to psychological assessment for children and adolescents with complex neurodevelopmental profiles, particularly within the context of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). The goal is to enhance both the precision and inclusivity of psychological and diagnostic assessment practices while ensuring that outcomes are meaningful, accessible, and aligned with real-world applications.
Traditional assessments often rely heavily on standardised tools that inadequately capture the lived experiences of individuals with co-occurring diagnoses such as autism, ADHD, intellectual disability, trauma histories, and psychosocial disadvantage. In contrast, this session presents an integrated framework that combines formal assessment measures (e.g., WISC-V, ABAS-3, Conners 4, MIGDAS-2) with contextual and observational data, cultural considerations, and family input to develop a comprehensive understanding of functional needs, strengths, and support pathways.
Key content includes:
A step-by-step walkthrough of a multimodal assessment process
Real-life case studies illustrating assessment translation into successful NDIS outcomes
Strategies for developing inclusive, strength-based, and trauma-informed formulations
Writing practical recommendations for families, educators, allied health, and support coordinators
The session also examines the role of psychologists in bridging the gap between diagnostic formulation and functional supports, highlighting how accessible, clearly articulated reports can significantly influence the success of NDIS applications, funding decisions, and educational accommodations.
By sharing contemporary assessment practice that aligns with neuroaffirming principles, this presentation contributes to the broader vision of Shaping the future, cultivating connection by promoting assessments that not only identify needs but also honour individual strengths, cultural identity, and long-term wellbeing.
Goals:
- Equip practitioners with a replicable, evidence-informed assessment framework for complex profiles.
- Demonstrate how strength-based and contextual data can complement standardised results.
- Promote culturally responsive, person-centred practices in diagnostic and functional assessment.
- Empower professionals to deliver accessible, outcome-focused reports that directly inform NDIS and school supports.
Traditional assessments often rely heavily on standardised tools that inadequately capture the lived experiences of individuals with co-occurring diagnoses such as autism, ADHD, intellectual disability, trauma histories, and psychosocial disadvantage. In contrast, this session presents an integrated framework that combines formal assessment measures (e.g., WISC-V, ABAS-3, Conners 4, MIGDAS-2) with contextual and observational data, cultural considerations, and family input to develop a comprehensive understanding of functional needs, strengths, and support pathways.
Key content includes:
A step-by-step walkthrough of a multimodal assessment process
Real-life case studies illustrating assessment translation into successful NDIS outcomes
Strategies for developing inclusive, strength-based, and trauma-informed formulations
Writing practical recommendations for families, educators, allied health, and support coordinators
The session also examines the role of psychologists in bridging the gap between diagnostic formulation and functional supports, highlighting how accessible, clearly articulated reports can significantly influence the success of NDIS applications, funding decisions, and educational accommodations.
By sharing contemporary assessment practice that aligns with neuroaffirming principles, this presentation contributes to the broader vision of Shaping the future, cultivating connection by promoting assessments that not only identify needs but also honour individual strengths, cultural identity, and long-term wellbeing.
Goals:
- Equip practitioners with a replicable, evidence-informed assessment framework for complex profiles.
- Demonstrate how strength-based and contextual data can complement standardised results.
- Promote culturally responsive, person-centred practices in diagnostic and functional assessment.
- Empower professionals to deliver accessible, outcome-focused reports that directly inform NDIS and school supports.
Learning outcomes
At the conclusion of this event, attendees will be able to:
1. Analyse complex neurodevelopmental presentations using a multimodal assessment framework that integrates cognitive, adaptive, behavioural, and contextual data to enhance diagnostic accuracy and functional understanding.
2. Apply strength-based, culturally responsive, and trauma-informed assessment strategies to develop comprehensive, person-centred reports that align with NDIS and educational planning requirements.
3. Translate standardised and observational assessment findings into measurable, evidence-based recommendations that support interdisciplinary collaboration and meaningful goal-setting across home, school, and community settings.
1. Analyse complex neurodevelopmental presentations using a multimodal assessment framework that integrates cognitive, adaptive, behavioural, and contextual data to enhance diagnostic accuracy and functional understanding.
2. Apply strength-based, culturally responsive, and trauma-informed assessment strategies to develop comprehensive, person-centred reports that align with NDIS and educational planning requirements.
3. Translate standardised and observational assessment findings into measurable, evidence-based recommendations that support interdisciplinary collaboration and meaningful goal-setting across home, school, and community settings.
.....
Gizelle Tadros is a Senior Psychologist and Advanced Specialist Behaviour Support Practitioner at Interaction Disability Services. With over 15 years of experience in disability, mental health, and educational settings, Gizelle specialises in complex neurodevelopmental presentations, trauma-informed care, and functional behavioural assessments. She is a recognised leader in delivering strength-based psychological and behaviour support services within the NDIS framework, and is passionate about translating assessment findings into meaningful, person-centred supports. Gizelle has extensive experience in developing accessible therapeutic resources and training programs for practitioners, schools, and families. Her work focuses on promoting inclusion, emotional regulation, and capacity-building for individuals with autism, ADHD, intellectual disability, and co-occurring conditions. She is committed to cultivating systemic change through evidence-informed practice, multidisciplinary collaboration, and innovation in psychological assessment and intervention.
