ADHD Assessment
Adult ADHD Assessment
An assessment for adults who want to understand whether ADHD explains the way they focus, organise and manage everyday life.
Understanding ADHD
ADHD in Adults
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, activity levels and impulse control. It begins in childhood, but many people are not assessed until adulthood. This is particularly common for those whose difficulties were quieter, who found ways to cope, or whose struggles were put down to other causes.
Some adults start to wonder about ADHD when the demands of work, study, parenting or running a household grow, or after a child or family member is diagnosed.
Is an assessment right for me?
You might consider an assessment if you have noticed patterns like these for much of your life:
- Trouble starting or finishing tasks, even ones that matter to you
- Losing track of time, appointments or belongings
- Drifting off in conversations, meetings or while reading
- Feeling restless, or needing to keep busy
- Speaking or acting before thinking things through
- Finding the organisation of everyday life overwhelming
These experiences are common, and they can also be linked to anxiety, depression, trauma, sleep problems or stress. An assessment looks at the whole picture rather than a checklist.
The Process
What the Assessment Involves
An ADHD assessment takes place over several appointments. A diagnosis is never made from questionnaires alone.
Initial Consultation
We talk about what has prompted you to seek an assessment, your history and what you're hoping to understand. Together we decide whether an ADHD assessment is the right next step.
Questionnaires
You complete standardised questionnaires about your current experiences and your childhood. With your permission, someone who knew you well as a child, such as a parent or sibling, may also be asked to complete one.
Diagnostic Interview
A structured interview based on the DSM-5 criteria for ADHD, covering your childhood, education, work, relationships and health.
The Whole Picture
I also consider other things that can look like ADHD or occur alongside it, such as anxiety, depression, trauma and sleep difficulties.
Feedback Session
We go through the outcome together, what it means for you and the recommendations, and you can ask any questions.
Written Report
You receive a written report with the outcome and recommendations, which you can choose to share with your GP or other health professionals.
ADHD and Trauma
When ADHD and Trauma Overlap
Some effects of trauma, such as difficulty concentrating, restlessness, being easily distracted and trouble sleeping, can look a lot like ADHD. Some people experience both.
I have a particular interest in trauma, and I keep this in mind throughout the assessment so the outcome reflects your whole history.
Next Steps
After the Assessment
An assessment may or may not result in a diagnosis of ADHD. Either way, you will have a clearer picture of your strengths and difficulties, and recommendations for what may help.
Therapy and Strategies
We can work together on practical strategies for focus, organisation and routines, and on related concerns such as anxiety or self-esteem.
Medication
Psychologists don't prescribe medication. If you'd like to explore medication, talk to your GP, who can explain your options and refer you if needed. You can choose to share your report with them.
Work and Study
Your report can be used to support a request for adjustments at work or in study.
Getting Ready
What to Bring
If you have them, these help build a fuller picture. If you don't, that's OK.
- Any previous psychological or medical assessments
- School report cards, if you still have them
- A list of any medications you currently take
- The name of someone who knew you as a child and may be willing to complete a questionnaire
Fees and Booking
An ADHD assessment involves several appointments. Get in touch to ask about fees, whether any rebates apply, and whether an assessment is the right step for you.
Enquire about an assessment