If you’re a parent or adult seeking support for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), working with an experienced psychologist can make a huge difference. In Brisbane, ADHD psychologists specialise in understanding the unique ways ADHD affects attention, impulsivity, and behaviour, and provide tailored assessment and treatment plans.
This blog will walk you through what to expect when seeing an ADHD psychologist—from the initial assessment to ongoing treatment and therapy options.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by challenges with:
- Maintaining attention and focus
- Managing impulsivity and hyperactivity
- Organising tasks and regulating emotions
It affects both children and adults and can impact everyday life, school, work, and relationships.
Why See an ADHD Psychologist?
ADHD psychologists have specialised training in assessing ADHD symptoms and creating personalised treatment and support. They understand the complexities of ADHD, including how it interacts with anxiety, learning differences, and sensory sensitivities.
Seeing a psychologist means you’re not just getting a diagnosis; you’re gaining a partner who can support skills development, coping strategies, and mental wellbeing.
What to Expect During the ADHD Assessment
- Initial Consultation
Your psychologist will gather detailed background information about your or your child’s development, behaviour, and challenges at home, school, or work. - Standardised Questionnaires
You may be asked to complete rating scales such as the Conners Rating Scales or the ADHD Rating Scale, which provide objective data about symptoms. - Teacher or Workplace Reports
For children, feedback from teachers helps understand behaviour in different settings. For adults, workplace or partner observations may be included. - Cognitive and Psychological Testing
This can include assessments of attention, memory, executive function, and emotional regulation to create a comprehensive picture. - Differential Diagnosis
Your psychologist will consider other conditions with overlapping symptoms (e.g., anxiety, learning difficulties) to ensure an accurate diagnosis. - Feedback and Diagnosis
After assessments, your psychologist will explain the findings, discuss whether ADHD is present, and outline treatment options.
Therapy for ADHD: What Does It Involve?
Therapy is a core part of managing ADHD and can make a meaningful difference in daily functioning, emotional wellbeing, and relationships. When you work with an ADHD psychologist, therapy is tailored to your or your child’s specific strengths, challenges, and goals.
Types of Therapy Commonly Used for ADHD
1. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
CBT is one of the most evidence-based therapies for ADHD. It helps individuals:
- Identify and change unhelpful thoughts that can increase frustration or low self-esteem
- Develop practical skills like time management, organisation, and planning
- Learn emotional regulation techniques to manage impulsivity and mood swings
- Improve problem-solving and coping strategies for stress
2. Mindfulness and Acceptance-Based Therapies
These approaches help clients increase awareness of their thoughts and feelings without judgment. Mindfulness can reduce anxiety and improve attention by training the brain to stay focused on the present moment.
3. Behavioural Therapy and Parent Training
For children, behavioural therapy often involves parents learning strategies to support positive behaviours and reduce challenging ones. Techniques include setting clear expectations, consistent routines, and positive reinforcement.
4. Social Skills Training
Some individuals with ADHD struggle with social interactions. Therapy can focus on:
- Recognising social cues
- Improving communication skills
- Developing empathy and conflict resolution abilities
What Does ADHD Therapy Look Like?
- Personalised Sessions: Therapy sessions are tailored to the individual’s unique experiences and needs. For children, therapy might be more playful or involve activities; for adults, sessions tend to be discussion and skills-focused.
- Goal-Oriented: Together with your psychologist, you set realistic, achievable goals. This might be improving organisation at work or school, reducing anxiety around deadlines, or better managing emotions.
- Skill Building: Therapy focuses on practical tools and strategies that can be used in everyday life, such as using planners, breaking tasks into smaller steps, or developing calming routines.
- Collaborative Process: Psychologists work closely with clients and families, providing coaching, feedback, and encouragement. For children, this often includes parent involvement to reinforce skills at home.
Benefits of Therapy for ADHD
- Increased self-awareness and understanding of ADHD symptoms
- Improved ability to manage daily tasks and responsibilities
- Enhanced emotional regulation and reduced frustration
- Stronger relationships with family, peers, and colleagues
- Greater confidence and self-esteem through mastery of coping strategies
Continuing Support
ADHD is a lifelong condition, and therapy often forms part of ongoing support. Your psychologist may offer booster sessions, check-ins, or referrals to other specialists such as occupational therapists or psychiatrists for medication management.
Why Choose an ADHD Psychologist in Brisbane?
Brisbane has a strong network of skilled psychologists specialising in ADHD who are familiar with local schools, services, and community resources. Choosing a local expert means easier access to ongoing support and better collaboration with other professionals.
How to Prepare for Your Appointment
- Bring any previous reports or assessments.
- Keep notes of behaviours or challenges that concern you.
- Be ready to discuss family history of ADHD or other neurodevelopmental conditions.
- For children, gather feedback from teachers or carers if possible.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re seeking ADHD assessment or support in Brisbane, working with a specialised psychologist is a valuable step. At Hively Health, our experienced ADHD psychologists provide thorough assessments and personalised treatment plans designed to empower individuals and families.
Contact us today to book an ADHD assessment or learn more about our therapy services.
