ADHD Assessments for Adults & Adolescents
We are currently offering neuropsychological testing for assessment of ADHD for adults and adolescents (age 12+).
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by difficulties with inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity (more information can be found here).
All assessments are conducted by our Clinical Neuropsychologists/Psychologists or Registrars who are fully trained in the delivery and interpretation of neuropsychological testing.
What’s Involved?
a focused diagnostic interview, including obtaining background information about your developmental history, current circumstances, and any current difficulties you are experiencing
completing some questionnaires about difficulties you might be experiencing
having a close person (e.g. spouse, parent, sibling, friend) complete a questionnaire about their observations of you
taking part in various tasks and activities designed to investigate particular patterns of cognition and behaviour
You will be provided with a comprehensive report on all findings from the assessment, which includes diagnostic information, treatment recommendations, and other strategies to adapt to particular cognitive profiles identifed. You will have an opportunity discuss the report with your assessor in a 30-minute Telehealth or in-person follow-up feedback session.
Fees & Rebates
We offer two assessment packages:
Adult package: 3-4 hours for interview, questionnaires, psychometric assessment, feedback of results, and comprehensive report
Adolescent package: 4 hours for interview, questionnaires, psychometric assessment, feedback of results, and comprehensive report. An optional 2-hour educational assessment can be added for an additional fee, which assesses for strengths and weaknesses in general academic skills for the diagnosis of learning disorders in addition to ADHD.
Fees vary depending on individual needs so please contact the practice for further information.
Unfortunately, Medicare does not provide a rebate for neuropsychological testing. Some private health funds may offer rebates depending on your type/level of cover. Please enquire with your health fund if this is covered under your plan prior to your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does an ADHD assessment take so long?
ADHD has considerable overlap of symptoms with many psychiatric disorders (e.g. anxiety, mood, personality, substance use disorders), and it is also quite common for people with ADHD to meet criteria for one or more other psychiatric disorders. As a result, differentiating the unique features of ADHD takes more time. It is very important to ensure that correct diagnoses are made, especially if treatment recommendations include psychotropic medications.
Furthermore, ADHD symptoms are experienced by many individuals to varying degrees. Therefore, collecting information from a variety of sources (i.e. through questionnaires, formal testing, interviewing) is important in order to determine whether a person’s symptoms meet the threshold for diagnosis.
Why are ADHD assessments costly?
ADHD assessments are costly because of the time involved in the comprehensive investigation and write-up of the report.
Why do I need someone else to complete a questionnaire about me?
As stated above, because many ADHD symptoms are experienced by many individuals, it is important that we collect information from a variety of sources, including from someone who knows you well, in order to accurately determine whether your symptoms meet the threshold for an ADHD diagnosis.
Do I need a referral?
A referral is not required but is preferable. Even though clinical psychologists can diagnose ADHD, typically an adult goes to see a psychiatrist for a formal diagnosis and the provision of medication if that is the preferred treatment option.
If a psychiatrist provides the formal diagnosis and treatment, why would I need to see a psychologist as well?
Psychiatrists often request and rely on the neuropsychological assessment information provided within the psychologist’s report when determining if a diagnosis of ADHD is warranted. Psychologists also provide support regarding non-medication treatment (whether alongside medication or as an alternative to medication) of ADHD and related difficulties.
What happens if the assessment does not detect ADHD?
This is a common concern for people seeking assessment for ADHD. If ultimately you do not meet criteria for ADHD, the assessment process will still provide valuable information about your cognitive functioning, differential diagnoses, and treatment recommendations.