ADHD Assessment Sunshine Coast
If you've been wondering whether ADHD might explain the patterns you or your child has been living with, the missed deadlines, the emotional overwhelm, the sense that things are harder than they should be, an assessment can provide clarity. At Bear in Mind Psychology, we offer comprehensive ADHD assessments for children, teenagers, and adults on the Sunshine Coast.
What an ADHD Assessment Involves
An ADHD assessment at Bear in Mind is a structured, evidence-based process. It typically includes a detailed clinical interview, standardised rating scales (such as the Conners 4), a review of developmental and educational history, and, where relevant, cognitive testing. For children, we gather information from parents and teachers to build a full picture.
The goal isn't just a diagnosis. It's to understand how ADHD shows up in your specific life or your child's life, and to provide practical recommendations — whether that's strategies for home and school, a referral for medication review, or a clearer picture to take to your GP or paediatrician
What to Expect
The assessment is usually completed over two to three appointments at our welcoming Maroochydore office. The first session focuses on your history and what's been going on. Further sessions involve the formal assessment tasks. Once everything is complete, we provide a detailed report with a clear explanation of the findings and recommendations tailored to your situation.
For children, parents receive a feedback session to talk through the results and next steps. For adults, we'll walk you through the report together and discuss what support might look like going forward.
Understanding ADHD and Neurodiversity
Before or after an assessment, it helps to understand what ADHD actually is and what it isn't. Below, we address some of the most common myths about ADHD through the lens of current research and the neurodiversity paradigm.
The neurodiversity paradigm, introduced by Australian sociologist Judy Singer, proposes that neurological differences like ADHD are natural variations in the human genome rather than 'disorders' to be cured. This perspective doesn't deny the challenges associated with ADHD but encourages us to also recognise the potential strengths and unique perspectives it can bring.
Who Is It For?
We assess children from around age 5, adolescents, and adults. Adult ADHD assessments are increasingly common; many people reach adulthood having been told they were "just disorganised" or "not trying hard enough", and an assessment can finally make sense of years of frustration.
You don't need a formal referral to enquire, though a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP will allow you to claim Medicare rebates. We also see clients funded through the NDIS and WorkCover.
Myths About ADHD
- Myth 1: ADHD is just a lack of willpower or laziness
- Myth 2: ADHD only affects children
- Myth 3: ADHD is overdiagnosed and overmedicated
- Myth 4: People with ADHD can't focus on anything
- Myth 5: ADHD is just an excuse for bad behaviour
Our ADHD Services
Assessment for Children and Teenagers
We offer comprehensive ADHD assessments for children and teenagers. Our evaluation process includes:
- In-depth interviews with the child/teen and parents
- Age-appropriate standardised rating scales
- Cognitive testing
- Observation of behaviour
- Collaboration with teachers when appropriate
- Assessment of academic performance and social functioning
These assessments help us understand each young person's unique experiences and challenges, leading to accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment plans. We tailor our approach to be developmentally appropriate, recognising the different ways ADHD may manifest in children versus teenagers.
Assessments for Adults
We also provide ADHD assessments for adults. This typically involves:
- Structured interviews to assess symptoms and life impact
- Self-report questionnaires
- Review of personal and medical history
- Exploration of childhood experiences related to ADHD symptoms
Support After Diagnosis
Our evidence-based approaches for ADHD include:
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
- Skills training for organisation and time management
- Parent coaching and support (for children and teens with ADHD)
- Collaboration with schools and workplaces
- Referrals for medication management when appropriate
- Transition planning for teens moving into adulthood
Our Neuroaffirming Approach
We use a neuroaffirming approach with all our clients, regardless of age. This means we:
- Recognise and celebrate the unique strengths of each individual with ADHD
- Focus on building self-esteem and self-advocacy skills
- Work with families, schools, and workplaces to create supportive environments
- Help individuals develop strategies that work with their natural thinking styles, rather than against them
- Emphasise the positive aspects of neurodiversity while addressing challenges
Our goal is to help people with ADHD thrive, not just cope, in a world that isn't always designed for their way of thinking. We believe that ADHD brings both challenges and strengths, and our approach is designed to nurture those strengths while providing support for areas of difficulty.
Therapies we use to support people with ADHD
Take Your Next Step With Us
If you think you, your child, or your teenager might benefit from our ADHD services, whether it's assessment for young people, screening for adults, or our neuroaffirming treatment approach, please contact us to schedule an initial consultation. We're here to help you understand, embrace, and navigate the unique aspects of ADHD at any age.
