ADHD – the assessment process.
Intake interview
This is an initial consultation that allows you to outline your concerns. We will explore family history, your history living with possible ADHD, and your difficulties with concentration and executive function. We will then tailor the test battery to ensure that I could compile a comprehensive report.
Testing
We will conduct an IQ test to get an indication of your working memory and processing speed. IQ tests have a range of subtests, some of which require short term memory application. We can compare your performance across these subtests to gain insight into your cognitive function and whether working memory and processing speed are causing problems for you. People with ADHD often, but not necessarily always, have lower scores on their working memory and processing speed tests.
The IQ test that I use for children is the WISC-V (Wechsler Intelligence Scales for Children – Fifth Edition) and for adults it’s the WAIS-IV (Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scales – Fourth Edition).
An IQ test is not a stand-alone assessment for ADHD, and we therefore combine this with subjective online tests. Children’s parents complete the Conners 4 and the BRIEF-2 (Behaviour Rating Inventory of Executive Function – Second Edition) and adults complete the BRIEF-A (Behaviour Rating Inventory of Executive Function – Adults) and the CAARS (Conners Adult ADHD Rating Scales).
The results of these tests are discussed at a feedback interview. If the results are inconclusive, I offer a Conners CPT (Continuous Performance Test) which is a computerised test of sustained attention. This will be explained at greater depth during the intake or feedback session.
Report
A comprehensive report is compiled for the Psychiatrist or Paediatrician.
Cost
The total cost, including the initial consultation, is $1200.00.
Prepared by:
Dr. Linda Basson
Lakeside Psychotherapy.
Email: admin@drbasson.com.au