ADHD Diagnosis
At Hively Health, our psychologists provide comprehensive ADHD diagnosis and assessment services for all ages. We take the time to explore how ADHD traits show up in each person’s life, combining evidence-based tools with compassion and clarity.
We welcome people of all genders, sexualities, and cultural backgrounds, and work closely with families, referrers, and other health professionals to ensure an accurate diagnosis and meaningful, practical recommendations for ongoing care.
Our Clinic
Our clinic offers a calm and supportive environment where clients can feel comfortable exploring the process of an ADHD diagnosis. Our psychologists use evidence-based tools to ensure a comprehensive, accurate and thoughtful diagnosis.
Each client receives a clear report with practical recommendations and guidance for the next steps, which may includes therapy, school or workplace adjustments, and collaboration with a paediatrician or psychiatrist.
We’re here to provide clarity, confidence, and support throughout every stage of the diagnostic journey.
ADHD Diagnosis: An Overview
Diagnosing ADHD involves confirming that an individual meets the diagnostic criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).
The diagnosit criteria describe persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity that interfere with daily functioning in multiple settings, such as work, study, or home.
Unlike a single test or checklist, a comprehensive diagnosis is based on a thorough clinical assessment, history, and observation over time. Our psychologists carefully consider developmental factors, environment, learning differences, and overall wellbeing to ensure each report is accurate, comprehensive, and delivered with empathy and care.
Common symptoms considered during an ADHD diagnosis include:
Difficulty Focusing
Easily Distracted
Difficulty Organizing Tasks
Mind Seems Elsewhere
Time Blindness
Trouble Following Instructions
Losing Items Frequently
Avoids Difficult Tasks
Fidgets or Stims
Feeling Restless
Constant Movement
Talking Excessively
Difficulty Waiting
Interrupts or Intrudes
Acting Impulsively
Emotional Overwhelm
Low Frustration Tolerance
Difficulty Relaxing
ADHD symptoms can look different across ages, stages of life and genders. Many adults, especially women, may experience emotional exhaustion, mental fatigue, masking behaviours, or internal restlessness rather than visible hyperactivity. Exploring your symptoms with a psychologist prior to receiving a diagnosis ensures a comprehensive treatment plan.
When to Seek an ADHD Diagnosis
If patterns of attention, focus, or regulation challenges are significantly impacting wellbeing, relationships, or daily life, it may be time to explore an ADHD diagnosis. For many people, receiving an ADHD diagnosis becomes a turning point, offering understanding, direction, and a renewed sense of self. Rather than defining a person, diagnosis provides the insight needed to make life feel more manageable and empowering. Key benefits include:
Clarity and self-understanding: Recognising that lifelong patterns have a neurological basis, not personal shortcomings.
Access to support: Eligibility for therapy, coaching, and accommodations at work, school, or university.
Tailored strategies: Practical recommendations for focus, time management, and emotional regulation.
Improved relationships: Better communication and understanding with family, friends, and colleagues.
Pathways to treatment: Medical review or medication options when appropriate, supported by your psychologist’s report.
Confidence and self-acceptance: A strengths-based framework that encourages self-compassion and growth.
Ultimately, exploring symptoms with a psychologist helps ensure diagnosis is considered carefully and accurately.
Who Can Diagnose ADHD in Australia?
In Australia, ADHD diagnosis is a multi-step process that can involve several qualified professionals.
1. Psychologist: Assessment & Provisional Diagnosis
Your psychologist can conduct an assessment, collect background information, and prepare a comprehensive report. This report outlines symptoms, functional impact, and whether ADHD criteria are met. In addition, psychologists provide practical strategies that support daily functioning.
2. Paediatrician or Psychiatrist: Formal Diagnosis
Medical specialists use the psychologist’s report, clinical interviews, and sometimes further testing to formally confirm the diagnosis. If medication is required, your Paediatrician or Psychiatrist can prescribe. Consequently, a referral to these practitioners by your GP is essential when medication is being considered.
3. GP: Referral and Ongoing Care
Your GP coordinates your referrals and may manage medication prescriptions under a specialist’s guidance.
This collaborative model ensures that each step is evidence-based, holistic, ethical, and transparent. Learn more about our ADHD Assessment process.
Role of the Psychologist’s Report in ADHD Diagnosis
A comprehensive assessment and report form the foundation of an accurate ADHD diagnosis. This report brings together your background, assessment results, and how symptoms appear across different settings. Your report may include:
Standardised test results (e.g. Conners, Vanderbilt, DIVA-5)
Observations or input from parents, teachers, or other professionals
Functional impacts on learning, work, and relationships
Tailored recommendations and practical support strategies
This can then be shared with your psychiatrist, paediatrician, or GP to confirm the medical diagnosis and plan the next steps for treatment and support.
While some people choose to go directly to a psychiatrist for assessment, this option can be costly and often focuses more on medical confirmation than on understanding your broader history and daily experiences.
By beginning with a psychologist, you receive a thorough assessment and written report, typically at a lower cost, along with the opportunity for ongoing therapy and practical support after diagnosis.
Support and Treatment Options
A diagnosis is not the end of the process, it’s the beginning of understanding and support. At Hively Health, we provide or coordinate:
- Therapeutic Support: A range of therapies, executive-function coaching, and emotional regulation strategies.
- Behavioural Strategies: Tools to improve focus, organisation, and self-management.
- Parent and Family Guidance: For children, psychoeducation sessions to build understanding and support at home.
- Collaboration with Medical Professionals: We can liaise with your GP or psychiatrist if desired to explore medication and further treatments, ensuring a cohesive treatment plan.
Our goal is to help you move beyond labels into practical steps for wellbeing, growth, and confidence. Moreover, treatment often works best when supports are combined.
Accessing our Services
Our services are flexible and accessible. You can complete ADHD assessments and provisional diagnosis at our East Brisbane clinic.
Fees & Rebates
- Private Health Insurance: Check with your provider for psychology & ADHD assessment coverage.
- Medicare Rebates: ADHD assessments by psychologists are not covered by Medicare. Rebates can apply to therapy sessions with a psychologist when you have a valid Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP.
- Private Appointments: Book directly without a GP referral.
Contact us to learn more about our rebate options.
Visit our Brisbane Clinic
Our clinic, situated in a beautifully restored Queenslander at 15 Didsbury St, East Brisbane, offering a calm environment for therapy and assessment.
Exploring an ADHD diagnosis with our team provides clarity and direction for the future. Get in touch today.
Please note: Our clinic is open by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
A psychologist conducts an interview, gathers history, reviews questionnaires from you (and teachers or family if relevant), analyses results, and provides a comprehensive written report.
Typically 1–2 hours for the assessment session, plus a 60-minute intake and a 50-minute feedback session. Optional cognitive testing may add 2–3 hours.
Psychologists provide the assessment and report, which supports a medical diagnosis from a paediatrician or child psychiatrist (under 18) or psychiatrist (adults).
You’ll receive a detailed report summarising findings, a recommended diagnosis (if applicable), and personalised strategies to support daily functioning.
We aim to schedule assessments promptly, with most clients able to book within a few weeks. Enquiries are answered within 24 hours.
If you’re looking for clarity and guidance through an ADHD Diagnosis, our compassionate and neuro-affirming team is here to help.
We proudly serve the Greater Brisbane Region with in-clinic appointments and telehealth options nationwide.
Book your appointment today.
All enquiries will be responded to within 24 hours by one of our friendly administrative team members.
