Adult ADHD Assessments

At Springdale Psychology, we provide comprehensive ADHD assessments for both adults and children, following the guidelines outlined by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) and adhering to best clinical practices. 

Our assessments are designed to provide a thorough understanding of an individual's symptoms and functioning, leading to an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment recommendations.  

Initial Consultation: The assessment process begins with an initial consultation, where individuals or their family members meet with our experienced clinicians. During this meeting, we gather detailed information about the individual's symptoms, medical history, developmental milestones, and current concerns. We will also complete formal screening tools provide data to support the decision as to whether a full assessment is required. This allows us to tailor the assessment to the unique needs of each individual and reduces the risk of people paying for and going through an assessment which they may not need. 

Diagnostic Interviews: We utilise the most widely recognised diagnostic tools to complete our assessments. For instance, we use the ADHD Child Evaluation (ACE) for children and young people, and the Diagnostic Interview for ADHD in Adults (DIVA) for adults. These interviews provide a structured framework to assess ADHD symptoms, comorbidities, and functional impairments.

Rating Scales: We employ standardised rating scales, such as the CONNERS and CAARS ADHD measures, to obtain information from multiple sources, including the individual, parents, teachers, and other relevant individuals where necessary. These scales assess various domains of ADHD symptoms and provide valuable insights for diagnosis and treatment planning. 

School Observation: For children, where indicated, we may conduct a school observation to gain a better understanding of the child's behaviour in an academic setting. This allows us to assess the impact of ADHD symptoms on their learning, attention, and social interactions within the school environment.  

Receiving a formal diagnosis of ADHD can bring several benefits:  

1. Validation and Understanding: A diagnosis can help individuals and their families make sense of their difficulties, providing validation and understanding for their experiences. 

2. Access to Support: With a diagnosis, individuals can access appropriate support services, accommodations, and therapies to manage their symptoms effectively.  

3. Tailored Treatment: A diagnosis enables clinicians to develop personalized treatment plans that address specific ADHD-related challenges, leading to improved functioning and overall well-being.  

At Springdale Psychology, we offer a range of evidence-based treatment options for ADHD:  

Psychological Interventions: We provide individual therapy focused on developing coping strategies, improving executive functioning skills, and addressing emotional regulation difficulties associated with ADHD. 

Behavioural Interventions: Our clinicians work with individuals and families to develop behavior management techniques and create structured environments to enhance self-control, organization, and productivity.  

Coaching and Skills Training: We offer coaching services to help individuals develop strategies for time management, planning, goal setting, and improving overall executive functioning.  

Medication: There are also medication options for people with ADHD to help manage some of the challenges presented by the symptoms. If you wish to consider this, we can link you in with psychiatry colleagues to review your needs, who will work with you to find options that suit you.

We embrace a neuroaffirmative approach at Springdale Psychology. This means that we aim to recognise and respect the neurological diversity associated with ADHD. This approach emphasises the strengths and positive aspects of ADHD, while addressing the challenges and providing appropriate support. We aim to empower individuals with ADHD to navigate their lives successfully, embracing their unique strengths and abilities.  

We value open communication and collaboration. Where appropriate and with consent, we actively involve individuals and their families in the assessment process, respecting their experiences and perspectives. Our goal is to empower individuals and provide a supportive environment for their growth and development.

 Contact Springdale Psychology today to schedule a comprehensive ADHD assessment and take the first step toward understanding and managing ADHD effectively. To discuss ADHD assessments now with a member of our team, please click the link below