Psychological Assessments for Adults

ADHD is neurodevelopmental and involves differences in executive functioning, which is a set of mental skills that allow us to retrieve memory, be flexible in our thinking and assist in self-regulation, among other things. Signs and symptoms are not the same for everyone, but may include:

• Consistent difficulties maintaining attention on tasks/activities and easily distracted.
• Often making mistakes at work or in study.
  
• Difficulties listening to others.
  
• Struggling with organisation.
  
• Excessive procrastination.
  
• Often losing necessary items, such as keys and phone.
  
• Daily forgetfulness.
  
• Often fidgets or feels internally restless.
  
• Difficulties remaining seated when expected, such as in the cinema or in meetings at work.
  
• Feeling always “on the go”.
  
• Struggles to wait your turn in lines and in conversations.
  
• And more…

Receiving a diagnosis of ADHD through our service can provide a lot of advantages, such as understanding your neurotype, finding identity and considering treatment and resources that work with your brain style. 

However, if you are considering ADHD medication options, please be aware that you would also need to see a psychiatrist, who may require further assessments to be conducted.

Like all neurodiverse minds, Autism is not a ‘one size fits all’, however some of the traits may include:

• Difficulties developing and maintaining friendships.
• Feeling very distressed by small changes to routine.
• Strong interests that impact other important areas of life.
• Differences in non-verbal communication.
• Difficulties starting and keeping conversations going.
• Highly sensitive or low sensitivity to sensory input, such as to textures, sound, light, temperature, etc.
• Finding comfort in repeating words, phrases or movements.
• And more…

• Access and resources – learning that your brain works differently, can help point you in the direction for affirming and understanding care.
• Effective treatment – the neurodivergent mind does not work the same as a neurotypical brain! Therefore, treatments designed for neurotypical brain styles may not be suitable to Autistics and/or ADHDers. By knowing that your brain works differently, treatment can be more tailored to your needs.
• Sense of belonging – gives you an opportunity to search for other likeminded people.
• Identity – understanding why you may be struggling in a neurotypical world can help make sense of who you are.

We will ask about relevant background information and Autistic traits. There is a preference to have the input of a parent, caregiver or an adult who is close to you during this assessment, although we understand this is not always possible. This typically takes 3 hours, which can be completed in one session or separated into hourly sessions – whatever you feel most comfortable with.

We will also ask for the contact details of yourself and someone close to you to complete online questionnaires and/or to consult with. We may ask for copies of past relevant reports, such as school reports, past psychological assessments, etc.

Cost:

• Health Partners Members = $1,505 (excluding intake session)
• Non-Health Partner Members = $1,645 (excluding intake session)

* Cost may vary depending on assessment complexity.

The cost is spread out in terms of paying by the hour.

We do require a deposit of $450 for members and $490 for non-members prior to the commencement of scoring and report writing. This forms part of the above cost and is not an additional payment.

Timeframe:

Reports will typically take 2-3 weeks from the date the deposit is received and/or all information for the report is obtained.

We will ask about relevant background information and ADHD traits. There is a preference to have the input of a parent, caregiver or an adult who is close to you during this assessment, although we understand this is not always possible. Assessment typically takes 2 hours, which can be completed in one session or separated into hourly sessions – whatever you feel most comfortable with.

We will also ask for the contact details of yourself and someone close to you to complete online questionnaires and/or to consult with. We may ask for copies of past relevant reports, such as school reports, past psychological assessments, etc.

Cost: 

• Health Partners Members = $1,290 (excluding intake session)
• Non-Health Partner Members = $1,410 (excluding intake session)

* Cost may vary depending on assessment complexity.

The cost is spread out in terms of paying by the hour.

We do require a deposit of $430 for members and $470 for non-members prior to the commencement of scoring and report writing. This forms part of the above cost and is not an additional payment.

Timeframe:

Reports will typically take 2-3 weeks from the date the deposit is received and/or all information for the report is obtained.

We will ask about relevant background information and Autistic and ADHD traits. There is a preference to have the input of a parent, caregiver or an adult who is close to you during one or both of these assessments, although we understand this is not always possible. The assessments typically take 5 hours, which can be completed in 5 x 1-hour sessions, 2-hour + 3-hour sessions, or any combination of these, whichever is most comfortable.

We will also ask for the contact details of yourself and someone close to you to complete online questionnaires and/or to consult with. We may ask for copies of past relevant reports, such as school reports, past psychological assessments, etc.

Cost:

• Health Partners Members = $2,150 (excluding intake session)
• Non-Health Partner Members = $2,350 (excluding intake session)

* Cost may vary depending on assessment complexity.

The cost is spread out in terms of paying by the hour.

We do require a deposit of $450 for members and $490 for non-members prior to the commencement of scoring and report writing. This forms part of the above cost and is not an additional payment.

Timeframe:

Reports will typically take 2-3 weeks from the date the deposit is received and/or all information for the report is obtained.

Initial intake assessment cost

Please note the fees below are estimates, your psychologist will advise you if the costing is to differ.

Health Partner Members (Excluding intake fees)

* A deposit of $450 is required prior to clinician starting the report.

Non-Health Partner Members (Excluding intake fees)

** A deposit of $490 is required prior to clinician starting the report.

Private funding. Assessments are paid privately.

Private health fund. You may be able to receive a rebate from your private health fund – please consult your private health fund to check your eligibility.

NDIS. You may be able to use funding for an assessment – please consult with your plan manager or relevant coordinator to check your eligibility.

Medicare. Unfortunately, there are no Medicare rebates available for adult Autism and/or ADHD assessments.

As assessments are conducted 100% online, we currently do not do cognitive and/or academic assessments that can explore intellectual or learning difficulties. If you suspect or have been diagnosed with an intellectual or learning disabilities, we can help you to find an in-person service that provides cognitive and academic testing.

If you've received a diagnosis of ADHD and are considering the option of trying medication, here's what you should do:

1.  Consult Your General Practitioner (GP): The first step is to discuss your concerns and interest in medication with your GP. They can provide you with valuable information and guidance regarding ADHD medication options.

2.  Referral to a Psychiatrist: Your GP, if necessary, can refer you to a psychiatrist who specialises in ADHD and related conditions. The psychiatrist will further evaluate your condition and, if deemed appropriate, prescribe medication tailored to your specific needs.

Remember that the decision to use medication for ADHD is a collaborative one between you, your GP, and the psychiatrist. They will take into account your individual circumstances and treatment preferences to create the most suitable plan for managing your ADHD.