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Understanding ADHD in Children
Child ADHD Support
Assessment Information Sheet – HarbourLight Psychology Melbourne
Understanding ADHD in Children
High energy, curiosity, and distractibility are a normal part of childhood. For some children, however, difficulties with attention, impulsivity, or activity level are more persistent and begin to interfere with daily life at school, at home, or with friends.
ADHD-related traits reflect differences in how the brain manages attention, motivation, and self-regulation. These patterns are not a sign of laziness or poor discipline. Many children with these traits are creative, curious, and capable, but may find it challenging in environments that require sustained focus, sitting still, or following multi-step instructions.
At HarbourLight Psychology, we provide developmentally informed psychological support for children who are experiencing attention or regulation difficulties. Our focus is on building practical skills, supporting emotional wellbeing, and supporting children to feel more confident in everyday life over time.
Every child presents differently. Common patterns may include:
Common ADHD-Related Experiences in Children
Attention & Organisation
- • Difficulty sustaining focus on tasks or play
• Forgetting instructions, homework, or belongings
• Struggling to organise tasks or follow routines
• Appearing easily distracted
Activity Level & Impulsivity
- • Fidgeting, squirming, or leaving seat
• Feeling constantly “on the go”
• Interrupting others or struggling to wait
• Acting quickly without thinking through consequences
Emotional & Daily Impact
- • Frustration when tasks feel hard
• Emotional sensitivity
• Difficulty with friendships
• School challenges
• Family stress around routines
These experiences may overlap with anxiety, learning difficulties, sleep problems, or sensory sensitivities.
Why Seek Support?
When attention or regulation difficulties persist, they can affect:
• School engagement
• Friendships
• Confidence
• Emotional wellbeing
• Family relationships
Early, supportive intervention may assist children to:
• Build coping skills
• Develop emotional regulation skills
• Strengthen confidence
• Develop routines that work for them
• Feel more capable and understood
Support focuses on skill-building, not changing who a child is.
ADHD Therapy Process
Our approach is child-centred, collaborative, and play-based.
What to expect:
Initial Sessions
Exploring your child’s experiences, strengths, challenges, and goals (with parent input).
Check-ins & Screening
Child-friendly questionnaires and activities to understand patterns and track progress.
Ongoing Sessions
Play-based work to practise:
• focus strategies
• emotional regulation
• organisation skills
• problem-solving
• coping with frustration
Review & Planning
Regular reviews to adjust strategies.
Duration: Varies depending on individual needs
Cost: Medicare rebates may be available with a GP Mental Health Care Plan. Private health insurance or NDIS support may be available depending on your circumstances. Please confirm with your provider or case manager.
Wait time: Current wait times are typically around 1–2 weeks
A formal diagnosis is not required to begin support.
How Therapy May Support Your Child
Support may help children to:
• Support improvements in focus and task completion
• Develop routines and organisation skills
• Build emotional regulation skills
• Explore ways to reduce frustration
• Support the development of confidence
• Support improvements in peer relationships
• Support engagement and confidence at school
Approaches Commonly Used
We draw on evidence-based child psychology approaches, including:
• Psychoeducation – understanding attention and emotions
• CBT-informed strategies – working with thoughts and behaviours
• Skills training – routines, planning, calming tools
• Play-based therapy
• Strengths-based work
• Parent guidance – consistent strategies at home
Where appropriate, collaboration with schools or GPs may form part of the support process.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do you diagnose ADHD?
Our main focus is on psychological support and skill development. Where appropriate, we can assist with assessment and provide professional input as part of a broader diagnostic process. Formal diagnosis is often completed in collaboration with other medical specialists. We can guide families through next steps and referrals if required.
Can support help without a diagnosis?
Yes. Many families start therapy to develop practical strategies regardless of diagnosis.
What happens in sessions?
Sessions are play-based and supportive, helping children build coping skills.
Can medication help?
Medication may help some children. Decisions are made with your GP or paediatrician.
Will parents be involved?
Yes, involvement is discussed collaboratively and tailored to your child’s needs.
When to Seek Urgent Support
If your child expresses thoughts of self-harm or you have safety concerns, urgent support is important:
• Contact your GP
• Attend your nearest emergency department
• Call Lifeline 13 11 14
Why Choose HarbourLight Psychology?
- • Registered psychologists experienced in supporting children with ADHD-related concerns
• Developmentally informed care
• Warm, strengths-based approach
• Medicare and Private options
• After-school appointments
• Melbourne & East Melbourne locations
Get Started
If attention or regulation difficulties are affecting your child’s wellbeing, support is available.
HarbourLight Psychology – helping children build skills for confidence and focus.
Feel understood. Find your way forward.
Get in touch for any questions so we can start working together. Call 03 8594 0423 or message below
