ADHD Assessments

What Is ADHD?

ADHD - Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a neurodevelopmental difference in the way a young person pays attention, manages their energy, and responds to the world around them. It isn’t a mental health condition or a learning disability, although some children with ADHD may also experience anxiety.

How ADHD Can Affect Daily Life

Many children with ADHD find certain “executive functioning” skills like planning, organising, or deciding what to do first a bit more challenging. These difficulties can make it harder to concentrate, sit still for long periods, or manage impulses at home and at school. With understanding and the right support, children with ADHD can thrive and make the most of their strengths.

Common ADHD Traits

ADHD traits usually fall into three main areas:

1. Inattentiveness: such as difficulty focusing, staying on task, or keeping organised.

2. Hyperactivity and Impulsivity: such as high energy levels, restlessness, or acting quickly without thinking.

3. Combined Presentation: a mixture of both inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive traits.

Our Assessment Approach

At Everlief, we follow NICE guidelines and use a multi-disciplinary team to deliver thorough, evidence-based ADHD assessments. Our process is designed to provide a deep understanding of your child’s strengths and challenges, whether or not a diagnosis is made.

Led by experienced clinicians, our staged approach ensures that families only proceed with full assessment if initial screening suggests ADHD may be present.

Assessment Process:

Pre-assessment Phase

1. Phone screening – We will discuss your child to check if this is the right kind of assessment.

2. Initial booking email – We will send you details of the assessment, plus a pre-assessment form. We will also request any existing reports you have. We will send Conners 4 questionnaires (these are screener questionnaires) to you and school.

3. Review of Conners questionnaires– If the results of these suggest possible ADHD we move to the main assessment.

Main Assessment

1. QB-check (computer based test) and Parent/child DIVA (parents and child structured interview)

2. School observation or questionnaire/interview for older children

3. WISC V cognitive assessment for the child

4. Consultation for parents only with Dr Jennifer Swanston

5. Report: A detailed report including diagnostic decision and recommendations