Neurodiversity Affirming ADHD Assessment Melbourne: Professional Guidance and Support
ADHD Assessment in Melbourne: Understanding Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
What is ADHD?
Before getting an ADHD assessment in Melbourne, it’s important to understand what ADHD is and how it can affect you or your child. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a natural variation in neurological functioning.
This means the way the brain processes information, manages attention and regulates behaviour is diverse, like the spectrum of human cognition.
The symptoms of ADHD are characterised by inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. ADHD can vary in severity, but can greatly impact an individual’s everyday life and ability to work and study.
At Solace Psychology, we are compassionate Psychologists in Melbourne, that can support you to unpack, understand and manage your experience effectively.
A lot of adults and young people who live with ADHD are unaware support is available, or that their experience can even be a strength. Understanding how ADHD impacts daily life is the first step in working effectively alongside our mind.
Common ADHD Experiences: The Common in the Unique Journey
ADHD manifests differently in each individual. A neurodiversity-affirming perspective recognises this diversity and avoids making broad generalisations or assumptions about how ADHD affects everyone.
However, some individuals do benefit from understanding the general collective experience. It is important to highlight the lived experience of each individual with ADHD is unique, and their personal narrative is central to understanding their needs and strengths.
ADHD can appear differently depending on the individual. Some common symptoms someone may experience are:
Hyperactivity or excessive restlessness (more prominent in children)
Impulsiveness
These symptoms can affect people daily as our environments often do not accommodate our strengths, making it hard to succeed in a predictable way at work, school, or social settings. These constraints can negatively impact our sense of self and personal relationships. This can leave individuals feeling frustrated and critical about themselves.
We are also more aware of gendered differences in the way ADHD presents for females and males. Females are more likely to experience inattentive symptoms, such as:
Overt hyperactivity and impulsive behaviours are more likely to be exhibited by males. The difficulty in this under-diagnosis comes as females internalise their experiences leading to increased risk of co-occurring difficulties such as low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, social issues and substance misuse.
ADHD Assessment by Psychologist vs. Psychiatrist
Psychologist
1. Comprehensive Testing and Evaluation: Psychologists often focus on detailed assessments and diagnostic testing. They may use a range of psychological tests and tools to evaluate cognitive and behavioural aspects, which can provide a thorough understanding of ADHD symptoms and their impact on daily life.
2. Behavioural and Cognitive Approaches: Psychologists are typically skilled in providing therapeutic interventions and behaviour modification strategies. They can help develop coping strategies, organisational skills, and other behavioural techniques to manage ADHD symptoms effectively.
3. In-Depth Psychological Assessment: If you are looking for a detailed psychological profile, including how ADHD affects your cognitive functions, emotional regulation, and social interactions, a psychologist might be the better choice.
4. Focus on Therapy: If you are interested in ongoing therapy and personal development, psychologists are trained to offer therapeutic services that can address both ADHD symptoms and related mental health issues.
Psychiatrist
1. Medical Diagnosis and Treatment: Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can prescribe medication. If your ADHD symptoms are severe and you believe medication might be necessary, a psychiatrist can evaluate your needs and provide appropriate pharmacological treatments.
2. Medication Management: For ongoing medication management, including monitoring side effects and adjusting dosages, a psychiatrist is the professional to consult. They can also address any co-occurring conditions that might require medication.
3. Medical Perspective: Psychiatrists can offer insights into how ADHD might interact with other medical conditions or medications, providing a more integrated approach to treatment if you have multiple health concerns.
4. Clinical Assessment: Psychiatrists can perform a comprehensive assessment of your ADHD symptoms within the context of your overall mental health, which can be particularly valuable if there are complex interactions with other psychiatric conditions.
Summary
Psychologist: Best for in-depth psychological evaluation, behavioural interventions, and therapy-focused support.
Psychiatrist: Best for medical diagnosis, medication management, and a focus on the neurobiological aspects of ADHD.
In many cases, a combination of both professionals can be beneficial. For instance, you might start with a psychologist for a detailed assessment and therapy, and then consult a psychiatrist for medication management if needed.
Why Choose Solace Psychology for ADHD
Assessments in Melbourne?
We exclusively use evidence-based assessments and therapies when approaching ADHD or any psychological concerns. Our assessment process is in line with a neurodiversity-affirming approach and the Australian Evidence- Based Clinical Practice Guideline for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
We approach your treatment by looking at the mind, your emotional well-being, lifestyle needs and environment.
The ADHD Assessment Process
What to Expect from an ADHD Assessment at Solace Psychology
Our ADHD assessment process complies with the Australian Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guideline for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
Holistic View: We understand and respect the individual’s unique experiences, strengths, and challenges. This involves listening to the person’s own perspective on their symptoms and how these affect their daily life.
Empathy and Validation: We approach the assessment with empathy and validation, acknowledging that neurodiverse individuals often face unique challenges and strengths.
Focus on Strengths: We identify and highlight the individual’s strengths and capabilities in addition to areas of difficulty. Acknowledge how their neurodiverse traits contribute positively to their life and abilities.
Skill Building: We emphasize how the assessment can help in developing strategies that leverage the person’s strengths rather than solely focusing on deficits.
Consideration of Context: We take into account the individual’s cultural, social, and environmental contexts. Understand how these factors influence their behaviour, experiences, and the expression of their neurodiversity.
Family and Support Network: We involve family members or support networks if appropriate and desired by the individual, recognizing their role in understanding and supporting the neurodiverse individual.
Empowerment through Feedback: We aim to provide feedback in a clear, respectful, and actionable manner. Focus on how the information can be used to improve the individual’s quality of life and achieve their goals.
Recommendations for Support: We offer practical recommendations for support and accommodations that respect the individual’s neurodiversity and enhance their strengths and well-being.
Access to Support and Accommodations for ADHD
Diagnosis and treatment of ADHD isn’t a silo. There are extensive support and accommodation options available to those diagnosed with ADHD. These include workplace modifications and educational assistance.
For children and teenagers in particular, this can make a big difference in their school experience. Schools may provide extra time for exams and assessments or assistive technology that supports students with ADHD.
By understanding ADHD symptoms and their impact on your day-to-day life, you can increase self-awareness and self-advocacy to help you feel confident and self-assured.
Your psychologist can also give you access to ADHD resources like online communities. These can provide additional information and valuable connections.
Connect With Our Experienced Psychologists
Get a better understanding of your mental well-being with our supportive and professional team of psychologists. Through our comprehensive assessment for you or your child, we can develop a unique treatment plan that suits your unique needs. We can also assist with depression counselling or any other mental health concerns you may be experiencing.
Our holistic approach fosters improved focus, emotional regulation, and mental well-being. We aim to empower you to have a better quality of life by utilising your strengths and managing difficulties.
Contact Solace Psychology Today To Begin Your Assessment Journey
FAQs
How Long Does an ADHD Assessment Take?
An ADHD test and treatment is an individualised process. The amount of time it takes can vary from person to person.
The assessment process typically takes 5 to 7 hours, depending on the individual needs and circumstances.
Are ADHD Assessments Covered by Medicare?
Medicare does not give rebates for ADHD Assessments. However, some insurance providers may cover your ADHD assessment and treatment. Check with your insurance provider to see what you may be entitled to with your coverage and what you’ll have to pay out-of-pocket.
How to get an ADHD assessment in Melbourne?
To get started with an ADHD assessment and child or adult ADHD diagnosis, you may want to get a GP referral. You can then contact our friendly team to set you up with the right psychologist and organise your first appointment.
How much does an ADHD assessment cost in Australia?
The cost of an ADHD assessment can differ depending on the psychologist you work with and the amount of sessions you need. You can speak to your psychologist about the fees required for an ADHD assessment in Melbourne and what you can claim from your insurance provider.
Contact Us
Start Your Journey of Self Development and Healing with Us Today.
Book an Appointment at Solace Psychology
- Call
- Fax
info@solacepsychology.com
- Address
625 Nicholson Street, Carlton North, VIC 3054
16 Harding Street, Coburg, VIC 3058
- Hours
Mon – Fri: 9:00 am – 7:00 pm
Sat: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Client Support Team is available
Mon - Fri: 9:30 am - 5:00 pm