ADHD - Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Assessments
ADHD - What is ADHD?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
ADHD is a disorder that is defined through analysis of behaviour. Individuals with ADHD show a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity–impulsivity
ADHD Assessments
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Hyperactive
Your psychologist, dependent upon your age, will ask you about your struggles.
You may have experiences of:
Constant feelings of internal restlessness and struggling to switch off
The need to constantly be doing something when others deem too much is experienced
Taking part in risky things without thinking of the consequences
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Inattention
Another area your psychologist will discuss with you is your difficulties with attention.
You may be struggling with:
Keeping to one task at a time for a long time
Not paying attention to details
Frequently losing things
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Impulsive
Challenges with impulsiveness can be discussed with your psychologist.
You may have struggled with:
Emotional outbursts
Interrupting conversations
Difficulty waiting
What Happens in an ADHD Assessment?
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At the initial consultation the psychologist will gather information asking a range of questions to understand what has brought you to seeking an assessment.
The different parts of the assessment will be explained to you and you will be able to ask any questions you might have regarding the assessment,
Sometimes it may be that during this appointment the need for a full assessment is not necessary at this time or may be it will be sometime in the future. The psychologist will discuss this with you.
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You will be asked to complete ADHD Assessment Questionnaires.
The ADHD Assessment Questionnaires explore the different difficulties linked to the three areas of ADHD - Hyperactivity, Inattention and Impulsivity.
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The psychologist carries out a structured interview.
If possible the psychologist will want to gather information from a partner or family member or friend this could be via a questionnaire or brief conversation.
Background information is discussed which includes a developmental history.
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An ADHD Assessment Report is provided detailing the assessment outcome, diagnostic conclusion and relevant recommendations.
A discussion to review the Assessment process and outcome is offered whereby any further questions can be answered.
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If you are diagnosed with ADHD or not it can be helpful to have support which we can provide to help you with the difficulties you are experiencing.
We are not able to prescribe medication as psychologists, and if you wish to pursue this option, you will need to seek the help of a psychiatrist following our assessment. We can support you in referring you to seek this.
Adults with ADHD - understanding unique minds
A large amount of adults are neurodivergent; this is the case for millions of people. If you have ADHD it doesn't mean you have a characteristic that needs changing, but that your brain processes attention, time and motivation differently from neurotypical people. Having an adult ADHD assessment is the first step to understanding your unique way of thinking.
Significant challenges in work, relationships and daily life can be caused is ADHD is unrecognised. Through professional assessment and diagnosis, we can provide support to help you harness your strengths and move forward with clarity, confidence and direction.
