ADHD Assessment (Child 6-17 yrs)

A Child (6-17yrs) ADHD assessment involves the following components:

• As the first step, we will invite the parent and child for an initial 60-90 minute developmental assessment.
  Here, we will gather more information about the current concerns and challenges facing the child; clarify that a full ADHD assessment is needed, or recommend an alternative assessment route where appropriate.
• 2x 60-90 minute (or 1x 3 hour) clinical assessment appointments with your child to complete a series of cognitive assessments of executive functioning (working memory, cognitive flexibility, inhibition, problem solving and information processing).
• 1x appointment with the parent/carer to complete a developmental history interview using the 3di assessment tool.
• Completion of the Connors and Vanderbilt questionnaires (child/parent/school).
• School observation and/or discussion with an identified teacher and/or SENDCo at your child’s school.

We then review all of the information against the diagnostic criteria before reaching a conclusion and inviting families in for a feedback appointment. All the way through the process, we have in mind that ADHD can often be co-morbid with other developmental needs e.g. Dyslexia, ASD, early trauma and we will discuss any observations and recommendations with you as we go through the process, you will be informed at every step.

If you do receive a diagnosis of ADHD, our practice offers optional post-diagnostic sessions to every client to help understand and make sense of the diagnosis. This includes an educational component on the neurodevelopmental condition, managing traits, disclosing to others, and future planning.

We will routinely discuss a wide range of support options with you, to include educational, behavioural and sensory support. We aim to complete comprehensive needs-led assessments that enable appropriate support to be put in the place for the child and family.

We also have links with a private psychiatry service who can assist with medication post-diagnosis, if this is something families wish to consider.