12 Nov Step-by-Step Guide to an ADHD Assessment for Adults
Understanding the adult ADHD assessment process
Many adults begin to question whether lifelong patterns of attention difficulties, impulsivity, or mental restlessness might be linked to ADHD. Seeking an assessment can be both a clarifying and empowering step. At Positive Wellbeing Psychology, we believe the adult ADHD assessment process should be transparent, evidence-based, and delivered with warmth and respect.
Our clinicians specialise in neurodiversity-affirming assessment and treatment, focusing on each individual’s unique profile rather than relying on one-size-fits-all testing. Whether you undertake a psychologist-led or psychiatrist-led ADHD Assessment, our team supports you at every stage with professionalism and care.
Step 1: Personalised Intake and Connection
Initial Appointment
Your journey begins with an initial appointment with either a ADHD psychologist or ADHD psychiatrist, depending on whether you choose an ADHD assessment psychologist-led or ADHD assessment psychiatrist-led pathway. This first consultation explores your presenting concerns, developmental history, lifestyle factors, and any relevant mental or physical health background.
This intake interview provides a safe and collaborative space to explore how attention-related challenges have impacted various areas of your life. As part of this process, we also screen for other symptoms such as anxiety, depression, sleep difficulties, binge eating, and other common comorbidities that can either exacerbate executive functioning challenges or arise secondarily — all of which are important to identify and target in treatment.
At Positive Wellbeing Psychology, we value responsiveness and accessibility. We aim to offer timely appointments and ensure that support remains affordable and client-centred.
Step 2: Comprehensive Assessment Stages and ADHD Tools
Following your intake, we use validated ADHD tools and psychometric measures designed to assess areas such as attention, executive functioning, working memory, and emotional regulation. These instruments are chosen based on current best-practice standards and tailored to your presentation.
Our assessment stages are structured clearly so that you understand what to expect at each step. Prior to your appointment, you will be assigned pre-appointment questionnaires to complete, helping you arrive prepared and confident.
This differs from an adult testing checklist that might be downloaded from the internet. Our questionnaires are specifically designed to measure a broad range of factors, allowing us to develop an understanding of your individual cognitive profile and neurotype. You may also be asked to provide previous psychological reports, medical records, or educational assessments to help build a complete clinical picture.
Together, these elements ensure a thorough, evidence-informed, and individualised evaluation.
Step 3: Integrated Multidisciplinary Support
A unique strength of our practice is our integrated, multidisciplinary model. You can access a psychologist following a psychiatrist-led ADHD Assessment, or a psychiatrist following a psychologist-led assessment — all within the same service.
This coordinated approach supports continuity of care, enabling your clinicians to collaborate closely and deliver cohesive, personalised recommendations.
Our team shares a special interest in neurodiversity-affirming practice. We view ADHD and Autism within a contemporary neuroaffirming framework, recognising these as neurotypes — natural variations in human brain functioning rather than disorders or deficits.
This perspective does not minimise the very real challenges that can accompany neurodivergence. Rather, it acknowledges that such difficulties often arise from the interaction between a person’s neurotype and environments structured for neurotypical functioning.
In alignment with the social model of disability, we understand that barriers are often environmental and systemic, not intrinsic to the individual. Our role is to provide a supportive, stigma-free assessment environment that promotes insight, inclusion, and empowerment.
Step 4: Collaborative Feedback and Next Steps
Once your ADHD Assessment is complete, we recommend scheduling a follow-up consultation with one of our psychologists or psychiatrists to review the diagnostic impressions, answer any questions, and discuss tailored, evidence-based treatment recommendations.
During this feedback session, your clinician translates the assessment findings into clear, accessible insights. Together, you will develop a treatment plan that aligns with your personal goals, lifestyle, and values.
Recommendations may include ongoing therapy, ADHD coaching, medication review (including stimulant or non-stimulant options), or workplace and lifestyle strategies to optimise daily functioning. The focus is on empowerment — equipping you with knowledge, practical tools, and support to improve wellbeing and quality of life.
Psychiatry Appointment Options and Medicare Rebates
If your ADHD Assessment includes an appointment with one of our psychiatrists, there are two Medicare item pathways available depending on your treatment preferences.
Option 1: MBS Item 291 — Comprehensive Assessment and Management Plan
This option is appropriate if you would like your psychiatrist to conduct a one-off, comprehensive psychiatric assessment and then provide a detailed management plan for your GP.
Following the assessment, the psychiatrist will prepare a written report for your GP outlining diagnostic impressions and evidence-based treatment recommendations, which may include medication options, psychological interventions, and ongoing monitoring suggestions.
Your GP will then oversee the implementation of this plan and provide your ongoing care. This pathway is often suitable if you already have an established relationship with your GP and prefer them to continue managing your ADHD treatment with specialist guidance.
Option 2: MBS Item 296 — Ongoing Psychiatric Management
This option is available if you would prefer the psychiatrist to continue managing your ADHD treatment directly.
Under this model, the psychiatrist provides ongoing medication management, progress reviews, and treatment adjustments as clinically indicated. This pathway may be recommended if your treatment plan is complex or if you would like longer-term specialist involvement in your care.
Which option is right for you?
Your clinician will discuss both options during your assessment and can help you decide which pathway best suits your needs and preferences. Both approaches are evidence-based and designed to ensure continuity of care within a supportive, collaborative framework.
At Positive Wellbeing Psychology, our integrated team of psychologists and psychiatrists work together to provide neurodiversity-affirming, person-centred care. Whether your ongoing management is led by your GP or psychiatrist, you will have access to coordinated psychological support and treatment under one roof.
Why Our Approach Stands Apart
There are many options for Melbourne ADHD assessments. At Positive Wellbeing Psychology, we distinguish ourselves through our integrated, person-centred model that values accessibility, continuity, and collaboration.
– Personalised – every assessment is tailored to your individual history and goals.
– Transparent – we explain the process clearly at every step.
– Responsive – we offer timely appointments and approachable communication.
– Affordable – quality care should never come at excessive cost.
– Integrated – psychologists and psychiatrists collaborate seamlessly within one service.
Our clinicians are committed to providing neuroaffirming, ethical, and compassionate care grounded in the latest psychological research.
Ready To Make The Next Step?
An adult ADHD assessment process offers more than just a diagnosis — it provides clarity, understanding, and direction. With our Melbourne ADHD clinicians, you can expect an approach that values both scientific rigour and human connection.
We are here to support you from your first enquiry through to ongoing treatment and beyond — helping you understand your mind, harness your strengths, and thrive.