Kirsten Williams,
Psychologist & Child Psychotherapist
The Grove Psychology Practice
The Gardens Medical Centre
An ADHD assessment offers a structured way to explore attention, focus, regulation, and executive functioning—while also making space to understand each person’s strengths, needs, and ways of engaging with the world.
People pursue ADHD assessments for many different reasons, including:
Difficulties with focus, organisation, or following through on tasks
Feeling scattered, overwhelmed, or frequently “on edge”
Emotional reactivity or challenges with self-regulation
Concerns raised by teachers, health professionals, or support people
Navigating expectations at school or work that feel misaligned
Wanting to better understand how the brain works—and what helps
Exploring whether ADHD traits may be linked to patterns around eating, impulsivity, or burnout
An assessment may support access to:
Classroom or exam accommodations
Workplace adjustments or support letters
Allied health or therapy planning
NDIS reports or applications
A more compassionate understanding of day-to-day challenges
In some cases, yes. While ADHD on its own does not automatically meet NDIS eligibility criteria, a more in depth assessment may support access when:
There is significant functional impact in daily life
ADHD occurs alongside other diagnoses (e.g. autism, learning disability)
Cognitive or adaptive assessments reveal support needs
There’s a need for ongoing therapeutic supports (e.g. OT, psychology, allied health)
If NDIS access is one of your goals, the assessment can include
Cognitive testing (e.g. WISC-V, WAIS-IV)
Adaptive functioning assessment (e.g. Vineland-3, ABAS-3)
A report that summarises functional needs and support recommendations clearly and respectfully
The assessment process is flexible and responsive—early conversations about your goals help ensure it reflects your context and supports the outcomes you're seeking.
The assessment process is collaborative and adapted to each person’s age, history, and goals.
Clinical interviews with caregivers
Questionnaires completed by caregivers and educators
Observations and, if needed, cognitive testing
Feedback session with caregivers
A written report with clear, tailored recommendations
Clinical interview and history-taking
ADHD screening tools (e.g. ASRS, DIVA-5)
Optional cognitive screening
Optional input from a partner, parent, or support person
Feedback session
A written report with personalised recommendations
Assessments are not just about identifying difficulties—they also support deeper understanding, self-advocacy, and planning for what helps someone thrive.
All assessments are approached through a neurodiversity-affirming, trauma-informed lens. This means:
ADHD is recognised as a valid brain-based difference—not a flaw or failure
Pathologising language and deficit-based thinking are intentionally avoided
Lived experiences and protective adaptations are honoured
Safety, consent, and collaboration guide the process every step of the way
ADHD assessments are privately billed and not eligible for Medicare rebates under a Mental Health Care Plan. This is because MHCPs apply only to therapy, not psychological testing or report writing.
Fees vary depending on age and whether cognitive or adaptive testing is included. You can view the Fee Schedule for ADHD assessments here.
There is currently a waitlist for assessments, with availability opening from May 2025 for ADHD assessments, and from July 2025 for ADHD assessments that include cognitive testing. If you’d like to express interest or find out more, you're very welcome to get in touch.
Do I need a referral? No referral is required. You’re welcome to self-refer for an ADHD assessment, or you may be referred by a GP, school, or another professional. If you’re unsure whether an assessment is the right next step, feel free to get in touch to talk it through.
Can I claim a Medicare rebate for the assessment? Unfortunately, Medicare rebates under a Mental Health Care Plan don’t apply to assessments. This is because assessments involve interviews, testing, and report writing rather than therapy. However, if therapy is recommended after the assessment, those sessions may be eligible for rebates under an appropriate referral.
Will I receive a report? Yes. All assessments include a comprehensive written report that outlines the process, findings, and any relevant recommendations. Reports are written in plain, respectful language and can be shared with schools, GPs, workplaces, or other professionals, depending on your preferences.
Is cognitive testing always required? Not always. Some ADHD assessments are focused on history, observation, and standardised questionnaires. In other cases—especially when more detailed learning or processing information is needed—cognitive testing (such as selected WAIS or WISC subtests) may be included. We’ll talk this through with you before beginning.
What’s the difference between ADHD traits and a diagnosis? Many people relate to some aspects of ADHD. An assessment helps explore whether these traits significantly impact daily functioning across different areas of life, and whether they meet the criteria for diagnosis. Some people find a diagnosis helpful, while others are simply seeking more insight into how their brain works. The process is collaborative and respectful of your goals.
How do I book or express interest? Please contact the Garden's Medical Group reception team to express interest or ask any questions. We’ll provide information about current availability, wait times, and next steps. Phone: (02) 6058 6175 Email: Level4@thegardensmedical.com.au