Call: 03 8594 0423
Child ADHD Assessment
Understanding A Child's Focus & Energy
Assessment Information Sheet – HarbourLight Psychology Melbourne
Child ADHD Assessment 6 - 16 years old
Every child approaches attention, activity, and learning in their own way. Some children may experience ongoing difficulties with sustaining attention, managing impulses, or regulating activity levels, particularly in structured environments such as school.
An ADHD assessment is a structured process used to explore patterns of attention, activity level, and impulse control. It aims to support understanding of your child’s strengths and areas of difficulty, and to inform appropriate supports where needed.
This assessment may be considered where concerns are present across home and/or school settings.
What the Child ADHD Assessment Explores
The assessment explores gentle areas like:
-
Attention and concentration
-
Activity level and impulse control
-
Executive functioning (e.g., planning, organisation, time management)
-
Emotional regulation and day-to-day functioning
Common Reasons Families Seek Assessment
Families may consider an ADHD assessment when:
• A child has difficulty sustaining attention or completing tasks
• There are concerns about impulsive or restless behaviour
• Schools have raised concerns about attention or behaviour
• There are ongoing questions about attention, regulation, or learning patterns
Purpose of a Child ADHD Assessment
The assessment aims to support understanding of your child’s presentation and may assist in:
-
Clarifying patterns of attention and behaviour
-
Supporting communication between home and school
-
Informing strategies for learning, routines, and regulation
-
Identifying whether further assessment or supports may be appropriate
-
Assessment outcomes vary between individuals and do not guarantee specific diagnostic, educational, or funding outcomes.
Child ADHD Assessment Process
The assessment is structured and adjusted to suit the child’s age and needs.
What to expect:
Initial Consultation:
Discussion with parents (and child where appropriate) regarding developmental history, current concerns, and goals
Parent Interview:
Detailed exploration of developmental history and behaviour across settings
Assessment & Measures:
A multi-method approach is used, which may include structured interviews, standardised questionnaires completed by parents and teachers, and behavioural observations
Report Preparation:
A written summary outlining findings and, where appropriate, recommendations
Feedback Session:
A discussion of results, with time for questions and consideration of next steps
Practical Details
Age Range: 6–16 years
Duration: Typically 3–4 appointments
Format: In-person assessment is required, with some components completed via telehealth where appropriate
Cost: $1300 (includes interview, measures, report, and feedback)
Wait Time: Approximately 2–4 weeks
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if this assessment is appropriate?
If concerns about attention, activity level, or impulsivity are ongoing or impacting daily functioning, an assessment may be helpful.
What happens during the process?
The assessment involves structured tasks, questionnaires, and discussions with parents. Sessions are adjusted to suit the child’s age and needs.
What will the report include?
A summary of findings, including strengths, areas of difficulty, and, where appropriate, recommendations.
Are assessments covered by Medicare?
ADHD assessments are not currently rebated by Medicare. Funding may be available through other pathways (e.g., NDIS or private health), depending on eligibility.
Can it be online?
Some components may be completed via telehealth; however, in-person sessions are typically required.
About Our Approach
-
Assessments are conducted by registered psychologists using standardised tools.
-
Neurodiversity-informed perspective is considered.
-
Focus on understanding each child’s individual profile.
-
Feedback aims to provide clear explanations of results.
-
Time allowance for feedback questions and discussion.
-
Typical wait times (2–4 weeks for initial sessions).
-
Scheduling available including after school/work hours.
-
Location: Melbourne / East Melbourne.
Get Started
If you would like to discuss whether an ADHD assessment may be appropriate for your child, you are welcome to get in touch.
HarbourLight Psychology – helping families embrace neurodiversity.
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
