Attention, activity level and impulse control
ADHD Assessment
A detailed assessment for children, adolescents or adults experiencing persistent difficulties with attention, activity level, organisation or impulse control.
Who it may help
Questions this pathway can explore.
- 01
Children or adolescents with attention or behavioural concerns across home and school
- 02
Adults seeking a first diagnosis or clearer understanding of longstanding difficulties
- 03
People whose attention concerns may overlap with learning, sleep, anxiety or other factors
What is involved
A thorough, tailored assessment.
The exact battery is confirmed after intake so that assessment remains relevant to the person and the reason for referral.
- A structured clinical interview exploring current concerns and developmental history
- For children and adolescents, input from a parent or carer and usually a teacher
- For adults, self-report measures and, where possible, information from someone who knows the person well
- Cognitive testing where it would help clarify the clinical picture
- Scoring, interpretation, a written report and a feedback session
Clinical context
How ADHD is assessed
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition involving persistent patterns of inattention and/or hyperactivity and impulsivity that begin in childhood, occur in more than one setting and affect daily functioning.
No single test can diagnose ADHD. Assessment draws together developmental history, a structured clinical interview, rating scales from more than one perspective and consideration of alternative or co-occurring explanations.
What you receive
Findings made useful.
A written report outlining whether the available information supports an ADHD diagnosis, how the presentation appears across settings, and practical recommendations relevant to the person’s needs.
Potential benefits
- Clarity and validation, whether or not diagnostic criteria are met
- A better understanding of how difficulties present across settings
- Tailored strategies for home, school, study or work
- Documentation that may support conversations with schools, workplaces and other health professionals
Important to know
A balanced view before you proceed.
- 01
Discussing longstanding difficulties can bring up complex feelings, including grief about missed earlier support.
- 02
An assessment is often the beginning of support rather than the end; therapy, coaching or medical review may still be helpful.
- 03
If WISC, WAIS or WIAT testing has previously been completed, we cannot administer the same assessment again within six months of its completion date.
- 04
Anxiety, sleep difficulties, learning differences and other conditions can look similar to ADHD or occur alongside it.
- 05
Psychologists do not prescribe medication. Where appropriate, the report may support a referral to a GP or psychiatrist for medical discussion.
- 06
An assessment does not guarantee a diagnosis, funding or accommodations.
Using the report
Designed to support practical next steps.
Reports can assist different conversations depending on the findings, the person’s circumstances and the requirements of the receiving organisation.
Speak with Harmony
Unsure which assessment is appropriate?
That is exactly what the initial consultation is designed to clarify.