ServicesAD/HD & Behaviour
AD/HD & behaviour assessments.
I have assessed and written about Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder for three decades — I am the author of Straight Talk About AD/HD: A Guide for Irish Parents and of a chapter in the international Handbook of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Assessments are available in Galway for children from age six, teenagers, and adults from across Ireland.
What’s included in an AD/HD assessment.
A comprehensive behaviour assessment covering AD/HD alongside Oppositional Defiant Disorder, conduct, anxiety, and mood & self-esteem — concluding with a full written report and recommendations, posted within days of the appointment.
- Conners Comprehensive Behavioural Rating Scales
Parent, teacher and self-report forms depending on age — completed beforehand, then input, analysed and summarised before the appointment.
- Diagnostic interview
For children and adults. The specific format is determined by age.
- Cognitive assessment
Intelligence and achievement tests, depending on age, to determine the level of intellectual functioning and any specific learning or cognitive strengths and difficulties.
- Clinical interview
Background information and history, with a DSM-5 focus.
- Behaviour observations
Direct observation during the appointment.
- Previous reports & documents
Review of earlier reports, forms and school records.
- The appointment
Usually 3.5 to 4 hours. For children the time is divided evenly between child and parents; for teenagers the ratio is usually 75/25.
Adult AD/HD assessments.
Many adults self-refer, often after recognising longstanding difficulties with focus and concentration. The assessment follows the same comprehensive protocol, with rating forms completed and analysed in advance of the appointment.
Where medication is a consideration after diagnosis, a referral is made to adult psychiatry — as a psychologist I do not prescribe. Specialised AD/HD coaches may also be recommended, with contacts provided in the recommendations section of the report.
Enquire about an AD/HD assessment.
Whether a behaviour assessment is the right starting point is usually determined in the first contact.
