ADHD assessment
If you suspect you or your child may have ADHD, a formal assessment is the way to get a clear answer. It’s a structured process, not a single test: a combination of interviews, questionnaires and sometimes cognitive testing, designed to work out whether ADHD accounts for the difficulties you’re experiencing.
This page covers what an ADHD assessment involves, who it’s for, what it typically costs, and how to prepare.
What does an ADHD assessment involve?
A comprehensive ADHD assessment by a psychologist usually includes:
Clinical interview
A detailed conversation covering current difficulties, developmental history, and how symptoms show up across work, relationships and daily life.
Rating scales & questionnaires
Validated tools completed by you and, where relevant, people who know you well, to capture how symptoms present across settings.
Developmental history
ADHD is neurodevelopmental, so assessors look for evidence of symptoms going back to childhood, even if they weren’t recognised at the time.
Other explanations
Ruling in or out conditions that can look similar or co-occur, such as anxiety, depression or sleep difficulties.
Cognitive or attention testing
Some assessments include specific tests of attention and executive function, though practice varies by clinician.
Feedback session & report
A session to discuss the outcome, followed by a written report outlining findings and recommendations.
Who is an ADHD assessment for?
- Adults. Noticing long-standing patterns of disorganisation, procrastination or difficulty with follow-through.
- Children & adolescents. Showing attention, impulsivity or hyperactivity difficulties affecting school or home.
- Second opinions & reassessment. Including people assessed as children who want an adult-specific evaluation.
- Documentation. For workplace or study adjustments, or access to certain types of medication.
What’s included in an ADHD assessment?
A typical comprehensive assessment includes the clinical interview or interviews, standardised questionnaires, a written report summarising findings against diagnostic criteria, and a feedback session to talk through the outcome.
What does an ADHD assessment cost?
Costs vary with the clinician, the depth of the assessment, and whether cognitive testing is included.
Medicare rebates for psychological assessment are limited and depend on your circumstances and referral pathway. A GP or psychiatrist can advise on what may be claimable. Private health extras cover may also contribute, depending on your policy.
We don’t publish a figure here. Scope varies enough that a stale number would mislead more than it helps. Your matched psychologist will quote you once your situation is clear.
How to prepare for an ADHD assessment
- Gather background information: school reports, old report cards, or anything documenting childhood difficulties
- Think through specific examples where attention, organisation or impulsivity caused real difficulty
- Consider who else might contribute, such as a partner, parent or close friend who has known you a long time
- Bring any relevant history: previous diagnoses, medications or assessments
Matched with someone experienced in an ADHD assessment
Pair matches you with an AHPRA-registered psychologist based on your situation, not just whoever has the next free slot. Tell us what the assessment is for and we’ll factor that in.
Get matched with a psychologistFrequently asked questions
How long does an ADHD assessment take?
It varies by clinician, but a comprehensive assessment is usually spread across more than one session, particularly for adults, given the depth of developmental history involved.
Can I get an ADHD assessment without a GP referral?
Yes. You can book directly with a psychologist. A referral isn’t required for the assessment itself, though it may be relevant to Medicare rebates.
Does Medicare cover an ADHD assessment?
Rebates are limited and depend on your circumstances and referral pathway. Speak with your GP and confirm current rebate details, as these can change.
Can a psychologist diagnose ADHD, or do I need a psychiatrist?
Psychologists can conduct comprehensive ADHD assessments and provide a diagnosis. If medication is being considered, a GP or psychiatrist will need to be involved.
What happens after I get my results?
A feedback session to discuss the outcome, and a written report. If you’re diagnosed, your psychologist can discuss support options and, if relevant, help you take the report to a GP or psychiatrist.
What if the assessment finds I don’t have ADHD?
A thorough assessment aims to give you clarity either way, and it often identifies other explanations for the difficulties you’ve been experiencing.
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