Assessment Matters

What is ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)?

According to ADHD Australia, ADHD is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that stems from underlying neurological differences.  It affects approximately one in twenty Australians but is frequently misunderstood and under-diagnosed.  It is a physiological, often genetic condition; there is no evidence to indicate that ADHD is caused by poor parenting, eating sugar, too much TV, family stress or traumatic experiences.  

 

There are three subtypes of ADHD:

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1. ADHD – Predominantly Inattentive Presentation

 

   People with this presentation of ADHD often:

• Have difficulty sustaining attention on tasks they do not find interesting but can often hyper-focus on tasks they enjoy

• Daydream and experience mind-wandering thoughts

• Have difficulty focusing on and engaging in tasks requiring sustained mental effort

• Are easily distracted by extraneous stimuli

• Miss instructions or relevant information

• Have difficulty with organisation

• Have poor time management

• Struggle with planning

• Lose items

• Have difficulty completing tasks

• Have poor short-term memory

 

 

 2.  ADHD – Predominantly Hyperactive/Impulsive Presentation

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   People with this presentation of ADHD often:

• Have difficulty with self-regulation and impulse control

• Fidget, tap objects, restlessly wiggle their legs, or move more than others their age

• Talk excessively

• Blurt out answers or interrupt others

• Make loud noises or narrate their actions

• React impulsively to situations with little forethought 

• Are impatient

• Are easily bored

• Participate in more risk-taking behaviour

• Have difficulty with delayed gratification and often seek immediate ‘reward' 

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 3.  ADHD – Combined Presentation

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People with this subtype of ADHD present with both Subtype 1 (Inattentive ADHD) and Subtype 2 (Hyperactive/Impulsive ADHD)

 

Purpose:

If a child is displaying any of the behaviours indicated above, an assessment of possible ADHD is often recommended to determine whether the underlying neurological difficulties associated with this condition are causing impairment in the child’s social and/or academic functioning.  To be diagnosed with ADHD, the indicators above need to be evident before the age of twelve years old, must be present in at least two environments (e.g., home and school) and are not better explained by another mental disorder.

Results from the assessment help to inform whether referral to a paediatrician or psychiatrist is warranted for verification of ADHD.  The assessment also helps to ensure that the most appropriate adjustments and accommodations in the classroom and intervention strategies are implemented.  With understanding, knowledge and needs-specific support, children with ADHD can have a positive educational journey where strengths are acknowledged and areas of difficulty, addressed.

 

The assessment process for concentration and/or executive function difficulties includes:

1. A one-hour initial intake interview with the parent/s where family, medical and educational history is documented

2. Classroom observation (depending on age)

3. A 1:1 consultation with the child/adolescent 

4. Viewing and interpretation of all academic, medical, and allied health assessment reports

5. Delivery and interpretation of relevant rating scales for parents and teachers

6. An assessment report 

7. A one-hour feedback session with the parent/s

 

Fees and Payment Process:

The total cost of the assessment, including the initial intake interview (approximately 7-8 hours in total) is

$1 325 (minus $200 if classroom observation is not required)

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Initial Fee:

$185 to be paid by Debit/Credit Card on the day of the parent/s intake interview 

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Instalments:

• $200 to be paid by Debit/Credit Card – Attendance at a place other than consulting room (classroom observation)

• $185 to be paid by Debit/Credit Card following the 1:1 consultation with the child

• $200 to be paid by Debit/Credit Card on the day of the delivery of rating scales to parents and teachers

• $370 to be paid by Debit/Credit Card – Preparing of report

• The balance of $185 to be paid by Debit/Credit Card on the day of the parent feedback​

 

An invoice will be sent via email following each payment.

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A 50% cancellation fee will apply unless at least 24-hour notice is provided.

 

PLEASE NOTE: Should it be required, a cognitive assessment (IQ test) and/or an individual achievement test (assessment of academic skills) will incur an additional fee.  This amount will be discussed and agreed upon by the client prior to commencement of assessment

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NOTE: Some private health funds may cover parts of the assessment process.  A Medicare rebate may be applicable for some sessions of the assessment process and follow-up sessions.  Please enquire at the time of booking for which sessions you will be able to claim a rebate.