
ADHD Assessments at CADS Autism
Discover a Deeper Understanding of ADHD - Our Specialist Assessments
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At CADS Autism, we offer comprehensive ADHD assessments for both children and adults. Our expert team is committed to providing thorough, compassionate evaluations that help you gain clarity about ADHD and find the support you need. Whether you're seeking answers for yourself or a loved one, we're here to guide you through every step of the assessment process.
Why Choose CADS Autism for Your ADHD Assessment?
Comprehensive, Holistic Assessments
We take a thorough approach to ADHD assessments, evaluating not just attention and focus but also the broader aspects of daily living like social interactions. Our goal is to understand the full picture of how ADHD affects you or your loved one, ensuring that we can provide personalised recommendations and support.
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Neuro-Affirming, Individual-Focused Approach
At CADS Autism, we understand that ADHD is a part of the neurodiversity spectrum. We celebrate each individual's unique strengths and challenges. Our assessments are designed to provide a deeper understanding of ADHD, focusing on the strengths and skills that can be nurtured for success.
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Expert Clinicians with Experience You Can Trust
Our team consists of experienced, qualified clinicians who are dedicated to providing high-quality, compassionate care. We understand the challenges ADHD can present and are here to signpost you to the support you or your loved one might need to thrive.
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Clear, Actionable Reports
Our detailed assessments are designed to be clear, practical, and easy to understand. We provide comprehensive reports with actionable recommendations, giving you a roadmap for the best possible interventions and support strategies.
The ADHD Assessment Process
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Step 1: Initial Assessment Form filled out by parents, carers or the client if over age 18
Step 2: Full Diagnostic Assessment
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If further evaluation is needed, we proceed with a full diagnostic assessment, typically completed within 4-6 weeks. This stage includes:
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Behavioural assessments using tools like the SNAP 4 Rating Scale or the ASRSv1.1 Rating Scale. Our Clinical Psychologist will administer the Young Diva. which is based on the DSM-5 criteria for ADHD for young people aged 5-17 years. For adults the DIVA (Diagnostic Interview for ADHD in Adults), is used. Both interviews are widely used in the clinical diagnosis of ADHD.
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Developmental history to understand the long-term pattern of behaviours and challenges
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Observation and parent/teacher/relative questionnaires to gather a holistic view of behaviour across settings
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Review of previous professional reports (if applicable)
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Multidisciplinary Team Meeting (30 mins) which includes both clinicians and our Mental Health Nurse, Alex Centurion-Eyre, Specialist High Intensity Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist (CYP) and Registered Mental Health Nurse (Clinical Nurse Specialist Neurodevelopment)
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This thorough process ensures we have a complete picture of ADHD-related behaviours and the context in which they occur.
When to Consider an ADHD Assessment
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An ADHD assessment could be helpful if you or your child experience challenges such as:
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Difficulty concentrating or staying on task
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Impulsivity: Acting without thinking or making hasty decisions
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Hyperactivity: Difficulty staying still or feeling restless
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Disorganisation: Trouble planning, keeping track of tasks, and managing time
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Forgetfulness: Frequently losing items or forgetting appointments
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Social difficulties: Struggling with interactions or maintaining relationships due to attention or behaviour issues
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If you’re noticing these patterns, an ADHD assessment could help identify if ADHD is the cause and provide guidance on how to manage and support these behaviours.
What to Expect from Your ADHD Assessment at CADS Autism
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We want the ADHD assessment process to be as smooth and informative as possible. Here’s what you can expect:
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Part 1: Initial Screening
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Duration: 30 minutes if required
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Focus: Discussing presenting issues, developmental history, and screening for other conditions
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Outcome: Determining if a full ADHD assessment is needed
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Part 2: Full Diagnostic Assessment
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Duration: Carried out using 2 part assessment consisting of a 90 mins- 2 hours interview for parents/adult and relative and observation typically 45 minutes-1 hour.
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Focus: In-depth evaluations using behavioural, developmental, and observational assessments
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Outcome: A comprehensive understanding of ADHD symptoms and their impact, along with a formal diagnosis (if applicable)
Benefits of an ADHD Assessment at CADS Autism
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Choosing CADS Autism means choosing a team that’s committed to providing the best possible care. Here’s what you can expect from our ADHD assessments:
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Accurate diagnosis: Clear understanding of whether ADHD is the right diagnosis and the most effective support options
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Clear recommendations: Tailored, practical strategies for managing ADHD symptoms and behaviours
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Experienced clinicians: Our team has the expertise to diagnose ADHD and provide actionable advice for treatment
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Holistic understanding: We consider all aspects of life, from - to social skills and emotional well-being
What Our Clients Say
