Adult ADHD Assessments in Brisbane
Available in – North Brisbane, South Brisbane, Logan, Gold Coast, Lockyer Valley and Toowoomba
What is ADHD?
ADHD or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder is a form of neural wiring in the brain, or neurotype. It can lead to challenges in daily life, such as poor attention and concentration. People with ADHD may be easily distracted or have a strong drive for physical input. They can also find it difficult to plan and organise tasks.
With individual cognitive, social and emotional development, the symptoms of ADHD can change over time. Challenges with executive functioning and regulation of energy levels may persist and complicate functioning across aspects of everyday life.
Some individuals may have gone to great lengths to manage features of ADHD over the course of their lives but find that the competing demands lead to greater challenges - previous methods of managing these issues become ineffective for a number of reasons.
A range of factors can affect the presentation of ADHD. These may include socialisation, hormones, physical health, social support, sensory sensitivities, regulation needs, and cognition.
A GP can refer adults for a diagnosis of ADHD
What to do if you’re concerned about your wellbeing and functioning:
There may be many explanations for difficulties experienced with attention, concentration, impulse control, emotion regulation, commencing an activity, maintaining relationships, or using unhelpful strategies to manage day to day living. ADHD is one possible reason. For adults seeking further assessment we recommend that your first port of call is your GP who can assist you to explore the various physiological and psychological factors which may be contributing to functional difficulties. These can include:
Physical health assessment including blood tests or other screening to exclude any biological causes
Exploring lifestyle factors and how these may be adversely impacting your situation
Exploring patterns of learning, behaviour and connection and sensory factors which could be indicators of ADHD, or other diagnoses
A comprehensive assessment by a psychologist and/or occupational therapist can help to delineate what is driving these challenges. A GP can refer you to a psychologist or psychiatrist for a diagnosis of ADHD (or other condition). You don't need a referral but if you have one from a psychiatrist you may be able to claim a portion of the assessment cost from Medicare.
What does an ADHD assessment look like?
Clinical interview with the client as well as someone who knows them well
Assessments/activities that help the clinician(s) to explore themes related to the diagnostic criteria (this may include standardised assessments as well as questionnaires)
Exploration of collateral information that helps to understand patterns of functioning over time (e.g., school reports, previous assessment reports, specialist letters)
Completion of a comprehensive report
Post-assessment feedback session
There is currently no medical test for ADHD. A diagnosis can be made using a process of observing behavioural symptoms and considering the relevant documentation. ADHD diagnosis is best undertaken with a multidisciplinary approach, in line with the National Recommendations.
If you are looking for help to manage your ADHD:
If you have an existing diagnosis of ADHD, or need help following an assessment endorsing this presentation, The Do Network team can provide suitable interventions.
Support from a local Brisbane Occupational Therapist or Psychologist can:
Build self-compassion and understanding.
Support the development or tweaking of strategies to manage your situation more effectively and explore options.
Work with and support the individual’s network (partners, parents and/or children)
Explore meaningful occupation and vocation aligned with sensory needs
Support communication with educational institutions or employers to better advocate for adjustments that support sustained engagement and performance
Support connection with community/ online groups and networks that build opportunities for friendship and informal support and advice
Please note, psychologists and occupational therapists cannot prescribe or recommend medications for managing the functional challenges of ADHD. These can only be provided by a private psychiatrist.
If you would like to book an assessment please fill in this form.
You can also speak to our intake officer by calling us on the number at the bottom of this page.
FAQs can be found at ADHD Assessment - Adult | The Do Network
What else can ADHD look like in an Adult?
Other conditions can be present that may look like ADHD symptoms. These can include co-morbid conditions such as anxiety or ASD (autism spectrum disorder). Additional testing can establish or rule out other causes of symptoms:
Developmental, learning, educational or IQ checks
Language, speech and movement checks
General health checks
Vision and hearing tests
An ADHD diagnosis is not fixed; its characteristics can change throughout a person’s life. Based on how many symptoms and how difficult those symptoms make their daily life, individuals can be diagnosed with mild, moderate or severe ADHD. The Do Network can help you with a range of interventions.
How is ADHD diagnosed and treated in Adults?
The treatment of ADHD in adults is individually tailored based on your specific needs and may include the following:
Behavioural Interventions
Psychologists can provide behavioural therapy as an effective, non-pharmacological approach for adults with ADHD. It can improve self-control, job skills and social interactions. Techniques such as individual or group therapy interventions are commonly used. Behaviour modification techniques, such as positive reinforcement and self-monitoring, are also effective.
Family Education and Support
Partners can be involved in the treatment process and may receive education and support to help them better understand and manage their partner’s condition. Programs focus on improving coping strategies and establishing healthier routines.
Support Services
Additional support services, such as occupational therapy may be recommended if the adult has associated difficulties in these areas.
Medication
In some cases, medications can be prescribed by a psychiatrist to manage the core symptoms of ADHD. These medications can enhance your ability to focus and reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity. The decision to use medication takes into account your symptoms and overall health.
Overall, the treatment of ADHD in adults aims to improve their well-being, career performance and social functioning by addressing their core symptoms and associated challenges.
Contact us to find out more about an ADHD assessment in Brisbane as an adult:
If you wish to discuss referrals, and appointments or have any queries, please call us.
Ph: 07 2113 2517
ADHD Adult Assessment referrals can also be submitted via fax or email:
Fax: 07 3445 4340
Email: admin@thedonetwork.com.au