Personality Disorder and Autism Assessment Clinic at Spectrum (PAACS)

Spectrum Eastern Health is proud to announce the launch of the Personality Disorder and Autism Assessment Clinic at Spectrum (PAACS).

PAACS provides specialised assessment and consultation for consumers, exploring the intersectionality between personality disorder and/or autism.

The PAACS is a pilot project funded by the Department of Families, Fairness, and Housing (DFFH). It was initiated to identify and support the under-served autistic population who are particularly vulnerable to mental ill-health.

This clinic at Spectrum is in a unique position to explore the diagnostic complexity and intersectionality between borderline personality disorder (BPD) and autism. We aim to also increase understanding of autism within Area Mental Health Services (AMHS).  

• Consumers who are strongly suspected as being autistic who have a current or suspected diagnosis of personality disorder and/or complex PTSD

• Consenting consumers of area mental health services 

• Consumers aged 18 years or over 

• Consumers will be willing to attend for assessment in person to Spectrum

We are now accepting referrals for autism assessments from Eastern Health, before we open up to the wider Area Mental Health Services in late April.

If you think you have a suitable consumer, the PAACS service offers assessments for those consumers who have a high likelihood of meeting criteria for autism (as per the DSM 5):  

Social communication deficits in all 3 domains of:  

• Social-emotional reciprocity 

• Nonverbal communicative behaviours  

• In developing and maintaining relationships  

Restricted, Repetitive patterns of behaviour, interests or activities (at least 2/4): 

• Stereotyped or repetitive movements, use of objects, or speech 

• Inflexible adherence to routines, ritualised verbal or nonverbal behaviour 

• Highly restricted, fixated interests (intensity or focus) 

• Hyper- or hypo-reactivity to sensory aspects of environment

This service is free.