ADHD Assessment and Coaching
ADHD can present with a wide range of signs and symptoms. Although many people with ADHD may experience similar symptoms, each person has their own distinct traits, strengths and challenges. It is important that any private ADHD assessment is conducted by professionals who possess suitable qualifications and up-to-date expertise and knowledge in this field.
It is very common for symptoms of ADHD to first appear in early childhood and persist into adulthood. The way that these symptoms present and interfere with a person’s life may change as a person gets older.
While it is common to receive an ADHD diagnosis as a child, this is not always the case and as people get older they may notice ADHD traits affecting them more. This is where an assessment can often make a positive difference, starting a journey towards acceptance and understanding.
Types of ADHD
ADHD encompasses three main types:
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Predominantly inattentive type
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Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type, and
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Combined type.
The predominantly inattentive type is characterised by difficulties sustaining attention, being easily distracted, and struggling with organisation and follow-through.
The predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type involves excessive physical activity, restlessness, impulsivity, and difficulty with self-control.
The combined type presents a combination of symptoms from both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive types.
It is important to note that ADHD is a spectrum, and individuals may exhibit symptoms that fall within different types or experience symptom variations over time.
A comprehensive assessment by a suitably trained Psychologist specialising in ADHD is crucial to determine the specific type and tailor appropriate treatment and support.
By recognising the diverse nature of ADHD, we can appreciate the unique strengths and challenges each person brings and therefore their support and interventions can be tailored accordingly.
Indicators of ADHD
Difficulty with Focus
ADHD can make it difficult to maintain attention and focus on tasks, often leading to difficulty staying on track
Organisation
ADHD can affect the ability to be organised, with difficulty structuring tasks, managing time effectively, and keep track of belongings
Impulsiveness
People with ADHD often struggle with impulsivity, finding it challenging to think before acting
Anxiety and / or Depression
Many people with ADHD experience anxiety or depression as the constant struggle with attention and organisation can create a sense of unease and overwhelm
Assessment, Diagnosis and Treatment
Taking the first step towards an ADHD assessment can feel daunting, but accessing diagnosis and treatment from an expert can make a real difference.
Your Psychologist will take into account factors such as your physical health, family history and the impact of your symptoms on your day to day life. It is important that your ADHD assessment is developed around your specific concerns or difficulties. During your assessment, particular attention will be given to related conditions such as anxiety, depression or post traumatic stress so that any assessment can be made as accurately as possible.
If your ADHD assessment indicates a positive diagnosis, your psychologist will consider your individual needs when suggesting a plan to manage any symptoms. You will receive a confidential psychological assessment report with full details of your assessment and suggestions for helpful reasonable adjustments for the workplace, school or university. While we do not prescribe medication, we can connect you with a small cadre of trusted specialised Psychiatrists who are able to advise you on this aspect of ADHD management.
With appropriate support it is possible to lessen the impact of any negatively associated symptoms.
What happens during my ADHD Assessment?
Your ADHD assessment can be carried out in different ways and is tailored towards your individual needs.
The thorough assessment is carried out in three parts, usually totalling 3 hours of appointment time:
Prior to the appointments going ahead it is suggested that you book online for a brief discussion about why you are seeking an ADHD assessment and how we can support you. We will also send you out a confidential psychological questionnaire and rating scale, you should complete these and return them to your psychologist.
You will meet with a specialist psychologist for up to two hours for your 'Part 1' appointment. You will be guided through your very own DIVA-5 or ACE+ ADHD structured interview and assessment.
Where possible and deemed necessary, information may be gathered about your childhood experiences by consulting with someone familiar with your behaviour during childhood (normally a parent, where possible). This is usually done by a questionnaire which is sent by email.
Once this questionnaire is also returned to your Psychologist the results are then cross-referenced with your own interview results and any other additional supporting material such as old school reports, feedback from employers or other such evidence.
Your Psychologist will now analyse and prepare your written report. You will then meet again for your 'Part 2' appointment which will usually be scheduled for one hour. Your Psychologist will summarise and explain their diagnostic assessment, calling on the significant amount of evidence gathered prior to this stage. If diagnosis is indicated your Psychologist will guide you through a discussion which will focus on your ADHD-related strengths and difficulties (although you are welcome to raise any issues that you wish to seek help with at this appointment).
Where desired, and subject to numbers you may wish to attend a 4 weekly mini ADHD group-coaching session. Please speak to your Psychologist about this.