ADHD assessment

How do we test for ADHD?

There is no single medical, physical or genetic test for ADHD, which means the journey of ADHD diagnosis in Australia can look different for everyone. 

Assessment can involve cognitive and academic testing, self-reporting, and questionnaires for family and friends. The process usually involves both a psychologist and a paediatrician/psychiatrist (depending on the client’s age).

At NorthPsych, we offer ADHD testing supported by our world-leading ADHD clinic.

More about testing

The first appointment is a clinical interview between yourself and your psychologist. For children's assessments, this appointment will be for the parents only and they do not need to attend.

You will return on another day for further assessment with your/ your child’s psychologist. This will include cognitive and academic assessments and will take from two to four hours.

About three weeks later you will have a follow-up appointment to discuss the results of the assessment.

If required, we will book an appointment with a paediatrician or psychiatrist for you. You will need a referral from your GP made out directly to the paediatrician or psychiatrist.

Why get tested for ADHD?

The goal of diagnosis and treatment is to help you be more effective in your day-to-day life and reduce the extent to which your untreated ADHD interferes with work, relationships and happiness.

Without this deeper understanding that comes from an accurate diagnosis, you are likely to keep trying the same old strategies that probably aren’t working.

We can help you understand how your brain works, develop more effective strategies, and explore other treatment paths.

Testing practitioners