The person's view
The person's own account of their history, strengths, difficulties and goals remains central throughout the assessment.
ADHD assessment · Central Coast NSW
ADHD assessment for children, adolescents and adults.
A comprehensive assessment of developmental history, attention, executive functioning and everyday impact. Diagnosis is not based on a questionnaire alone.
Call about assessment
FeeFrom $2,500final scope confirmed before booking
Across the lifespanChildren, adolescents and adults
AppointmentsWoy Woy and telehealthFace to face or telehealth where appropriate
AvailabilityServices currently availableCall to discuss your needs
Start with the question
Could ADHD explain longstanding difficulties with attention, organisation or follow-through?
You do not need to know which test or assessment component is required. An initial telephone discussion clarifies the concern, the purpose of assessment and the most appropriate next step.
At a glance
WhoChildren, adolescents and adults
InterviewsThree interviews, usually completed over 2–3 weeks
Additional informationRelevant measures, records and information from a suitable informant
FormatWoy Woy and telehealth where clinically appropriate
ReportWritten report with clear recommendations and next steps, prepared over approximately 4–6 weeks after the assessment information is complete
ImportantAssessment does not guarantee a diagnosis or provide medication
Clinical indications
When an assessment may be useful.
An initial telephone discussion clarifies the question, the purpose of the assessment and whether this service is appropriate.
- Lifelong patterns of inattention, restlessness or impulsivity
- Executive-function difficulty affecting education, work, relationships or daily living
- A need to clarify ADHD alongside anxiety, mood, autism, learning or sleep concerns
- A diagnostic question raised by the person, family, school or another health professional
Clinical reasoning
What is considered.
The conclusion is based on multiple sources of information, interpreted in the context of the referral question and the person’s circumstances.
01
Diagnostic reasoning considers symptom onset, persistence, pervasiveness and clinically significant impairment across settings.
02
Evidence may include a detailed developmental and clinical interview, validated rating scales, collateral information and relevant records.
03
Formulation considers differential and co-occurring factors such as anxiety, mood, trauma, sleep, autism, learning profile, substance use and medical context.
04
Cognitive testing is not automatically required and is selected only when it addresses a relevant clinical or learning question.
The whole clinical picture
Understand the story. Clarify the next chapter.
Assessment is not only about a diagnosis or a set of scores. It brings together the person's experience, other perspectives and the decisions the report needs to support.
An informant perspective
Every assessment includes information from at least one suitable informant. This helps bring together the person's self-view with what someone who knows them notices in everyday relationships and settings. We discuss who is suitable, consent and how the information will be used. If no suitable informant is available, call before booking so we can discuss whether the assessment can proceed and what limitations may apply.
Recommendations and next steps
Every report explains the findings, provides clear recommendations and identifies practical next steps. The aim is to understand the story so the next chapter can be informed and purposeful.
Assessment process
How the assessment works.
Select each step to see what it involves. Components are chosen according to age, clinical history, the referral question and the intended use of the report.
Step 01
Clinical scoping
Clarify the referral question, assessment purpose, history and whether ADHD assessment is the appropriate pathway.
Feedback and report
Results explained clearly.
Assessment findings are considered alongside developmental, clinical and contextual information. Every report includes the conclusion, its limitations, clear recommendations and practical next steps.
The assessment may provide
- A clinically reasoned diagnostic conclusion
- Clear explanation of strengths, functional impact and co-occurring needs
- Recommendations for education, work, routines and psychological support
- Information to discuss with a GP, paediatrician or psychiatrist when medical care is relevant
Before booking
Common questions.
Does assessment guarantee an ADHD diagnosis?
No. Assessment determines whether the available evidence supports diagnostic criteria and explains other clinically relevant findings.
Can a psychologist prescribe ADHD medication?
No. Psychologists do not prescribe medication. Medical treatment must be discussed with an appropriately qualified medical practitioner.
Do I need a referral?
A referral is not required to call the practice. Any formal referral or funding requirement is clarified when the assessment purpose is discussed.
What affects the final fee?
Age, complexity, collateral information, record review, testing requirements and the purpose and length of the report can affect scope. You receive a clear proposal before booking.