ADHD Assessment Information
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) isn’t just something that affects kids—it’s a neurodevelopmental condition that can impact people at any age. In fact, it’s estimated that over 815,000 adults in Australia are living with ADHD, but only a small portion have received a formal diagnosis. ADHD often goes unrecognised in adults, adolescents, and even in bright, capable children who may have learned to mask their challenges.
When ADHD is left unaddressed, it can significantly impact school performance, relationships, work life, daily routines, self-esteem and mental health. Whether you're a parent noticing signs in your child, a teenager feeling overwhelmed by school and social pressures, or an adult who’s always felt "a bit different"—you’re not alone, and support is available.
What ADHD Can Sound Like:
In Children:
“He’s always on the go.”
“She never seems to listen, even when I’m right in front of her.”
“They’re smart but struggle to finish schoolwork.”
In Teenagers:
“I can't focus in class.”
“I always leave things to the last minute.”
“Everything feels overwhelming lately.”
In Adults:
“I feel like I’m failing at life.”
“I’m always disorganised or running late.”
“I can’t sit through a movie or finish a book.”
“I’m easily frustrated and forgetful.”
If any of these statements resonate, it may be time to consider an ADHD assessment.
How ADHD Looks Different at Every Age
ADHD presents differently depending on a person’s age, environment, and coping strategies. Young children may be more physically restless or impulsive. Teenagers might struggle with motivation, emotional regulation, or peer relationships. Adults may experience chronic overwhelm, time-blindness, and trouble with follow-through—even if they appear successful on the surface.
Many people with ADHD develop creative coping strategies to get by—like using strict routines, relying heavily on lists, or overworking to compensate. But even with these tools, life can still feel harder than it should be.
When to Consider an ADHD Assessment
You may want to book an ADHD assessment if you or your child are consistently struggling with:
Focus and attention
Task completion and organisation
Memory and time management
Emotional reactivity or regulation
Motivation and follow-through
These challenges often start in childhood, but might not be fully recognised until later in life—especially if someone is bright, hardworking, or high achieving. Getting a clear diagnosis can provide clarity, relief, and a path forward.
Why See a Psychologist for ADHD Assessment?
Psychologists are trained to provide thorough, evidence-based assessments across all age groups. At our practice, we use a combination of:
Clinical interviews
Behavioural questionnaires and other psychometric screeners
Input from families and schools (when needed)
Assessment Fee
Total cost: $930
This includes all sessions, assessment tools, and the standard report.
Rebates may be available:Medicare: For clients under 25 years with a referral from a psychiatrist or paediatrician.
Private Health Insurance: Some funds offer rebates—please check with your provider.
Our ADHD Assessment Process
At our practice, we offer thorough, compassionate, and evidence-based ADHD assessments tailored to each individual. Whether you're seeking answers for yourself, your child, or a teenager in your care, our process is designed to provide clarity, support, and a meaningful path forward.
Step 1: Initial Intake Call
We start with a brief phone consultation to understand your concerns and walk you through the process. During this call, we’ll:
Answer your questions
Provide clear information about fees and appointments
Ensure an ADHD assessment is the most appropriate next step
Email you a set of standardised questionnaires and self-report tools to complete before your first appointment
Step 2: Clinical Interview
The first in-person (or telehealth) session is a comprehensive clinical interview with a psychologist (approx. 1.5 hours). In this session, we explore:
Your current concerns and personal strengths
Developmental, educational, social, and emotional history
Any co-occurring conditions that may be impacting attention, behaviour, or mood
For children and adolescents, we also gather insights from parents, teachers, or caregivers where appropriate.
Step 3: Formal ADHD Testing
In the second session (approx. 1.5 hours), we complete structured ADHD testing using validated, narrow-band assessment tools designed to measure attention, impulsivity, and executive functioning.
We encourage you (or your child) to bring a parent, partner, or other close support person, if possible, to provide an additional perspective.
Step 4: Analysis & Report Preparation
After both sessions, we thoroughly analyse all the gathered data—clinical observations, questionnaires, interviews, and testing results. We compare this information to diagnostic criteria for ADHD and consider other potential contributing factors or diagnoses.
Step 5: Feedback & Support Planning
Within approximately four weeks, you’ll return for a supportive feedback session where we discuss the outcome of the assessment. We will provide you with a clear summary of findings of diagnosis and how diagnosis was reached. We can make recommendations about futher treatment, including both psychological care and psychiatric involvement.
If a formal diagnostic report is required for NDIS, academic accommodations, or other external purposes, this can be arranged for an additional fee.
Ongoing ADHD Therapy & Support
Diagnosis is only the beginning. We offer ongoing therapy to help children, teens, and adults manage ADHD in practical, empowering ways. Our therapeutic services may include:
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Targeting unhelpful thinking patterns, building self-esteem, and managing emotional dysregulation
Time Management & Organisation Coaching: Tools tailored specifically for ADHD brains
Anger & Emotion Regulation Strategies: Especially helpful for children and teens who struggle with frustration or overwhelm
Social Skills & Communication: Improving interpersonal relationships across all life stages
We work with you to create a plan that fits your goals—whether that includes therapy alone or in collaboration with a GP or psychiatrist for medication support.
We're Here to Help
Whether you’re seeking a formal diagnosis or looking for better ways to manage ADHD symptoms, we’re here to support you with warmth, expertise, and respect.
You don’t have to navigate this alone. Let’s take the next step together.
