Many adults, families, and carers are unsure where to start when it comes to ADHD assessment, especially around who can diagnose, what the process looks like, and how it connects with school, work, and NDIS supports. Our latest article, “ADHD Diagnosis Process in Australia: A Step-by-Step Guide for Adults, Families and Carers,” covers: ✔️ When it may be helpful to consider an ADHD assessment ✔️ Who can diagnose ADHD in Australia ✔️ What actually happens during an assessment session ✔️ Timeframes, costs, Medicare, and public pathways ✔️ Emotional impacts and how to support people through the journey ✔️ Links with school adjustments, workplace supports, and NDIS evidence At Affective Care, we provide emotionally centred support, collaborating with families, clinicians, schools, and support coordinators to make the process clearer and less overwhelming. Read the full guide on our website or connect with us if you’re supporting participants who may be exploring ADHD assessment: https://affectivecare.com.au/adhd-diagnosis-process-australia/ -------------------------------------------------------------------- ✅ Affective Care | Your Trusted NDIS Provider 💙 Empower Lives with Heart 👉 Reach out today 📞 1300 615 193 | 🌐 affectivecare.com.au -------------------------------------------------------------------- #ADHDAustralia #ADHDDiagnosis #NDIS #DisabilitySupport #Neurodiversity #AffectiveCare #NDIS #DisabilityAwareness #ADHDDiagnosis #ADHDAdultDiagnosis #ADHDDiagnosisinChildhood #ADHDDiagnosisAustralia #ADHDTestAustralia

1. Empowering
Lives
With
Heart
AffectiveCare.com.au
ADHD Diagnosis Process in Australia
Guide for Adults, Families and Carers
Your Trusted NDIS Provider

2. ADHD Overview:
When to Get an
Assessment
ADHD can affect focus, energy, and daily functioning. You may
consider an assessment if:
Symptoms may appear as inattentive, hyperactive, or a
combination of both.
They have been present for at least 6 months.
They first began in childhood, even if they were subtle.
They show up across different settings such as home,
school, or work.
They impact wellbeing, relationships, or day-to-day
routines.
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3. Who can
Diagnose ADHD
in Australia?
Only trained clinicians can complete a formal ADHD diagnosis in
Australia.
Children are assessed by paediatricians, psychiatrists, or
trained psychologists.
Adults see psychiatrists or clinical psychologists.
Some trained GPs diagnose adults (varies by state).
GP is always the first step.
They provide referrals, rule out other causes, and coordinate
care.
Seeking a second opinion is completely acceptable.
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The ADHD journey is where confusion meets clarity, and self-
compassion becomes possible.

4. ADHD Diagnosis
Process: Step by
Step
ADHD is diagnosed through multiple evidence-based steps,
not one test. Here is a step-by-step process for ADHD
Diagnosis;
Start with a GP appointment
Complete questionnaires and history forms
Include input from teachers, partners, or family
Attend a comprehensive clinical interview
Screening for co-occurring conditions
The clinician uses DSM-5 criteria and standardised tools
Receive a feedback session and a written report
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5. What an ADHD
Assessment Looks
Like
Assessment sessions are conversational, supportive, and focused
on real experiences. Here is what an ADHD assessment looks like;
Discuss symptoms and daily challenges
Explore school or work history
Review relationships, routines, and emotional well-being
Discuss childhood behaviours and early traits
Explore executive functioning skills
Review questionnaires and external reports
Sessions usually last 60 to 90 minutes across 1–3 appointments
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6. ADHD
Diagnosis in
Children vs
Adults
While the structure is similar, children and adults are assessed differently.
Children’s assessments focus on school/home behaviour, learning needs, and teacher insights.
Adults explore lifelong patterns, masking, and workplace challenges.
Emotional regulation and executive functioning are reviewed for both.
Childhood history is essential for confirming adult ADHD.
Many adults experience clarity and validation after a later-life diagnosis.
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7. ADHD Diagnosis
Process Timeframe
ADHD Diagnosis Timeframes vary greatly depending on location,
waitlists, and pathways.
First appointments may take weeks to months
Assessments happen across several weeks to two months
Includes questionnaires and report writing
Public pathways have longer wait times
Private pathways move faster but cost more
While waiting, supports such as routines or adjustments can
begin
Clinics can share expected wait times if asked
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8. Costs vary widely depending on clinician type and assessment
needs.
Private pathways include multiple sessions
May consist of cognitive testing and report writing
Medicare rebates apply to psychology, psychiatry, or
paediatrics
Rebates reduce but don’t cover the full costs
Public services offer low- or no-cost options
Public waitlists are longer but accessible
Always check what’s included in clinic fees
Costs, Medicare
Rebates and
Access Options
Investing in an ADHD
assessment is investing in
clarity, confidence, and long-
term wellbeing.
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9. The process involves both emotional experiences and clinical
steps.
Common feelings include relief, hope, worry, or grief
Validation is standard once patterns make sense
Stigma or missed support may trigger frustration
Peer communities can offer a connection
Therapy provides space to process feelings
Bringing a support person may help
Taking breaks and resting is okay
Emotional Side of
the ADHD
Diagnosis Journey
ADHD support gives you the
clarity you need to move
through life with confidence.
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10. ADHD Diagnosis
& Everyday
Supports
An ADHD diagnosis can unlock practical supports across life
areas.
Schools can provide learning plans and classroom
adjustments
Exam supports and environmental changes may be offered
Workplaces can adjust hours or provide a clearer structure
Quiet workspaces or task support can help adults
ADHD alone doesn't guarantee NDIS eligibility
Co-occurring conditions and functional impacts matter
Reports provide evidence for NDIS or workplace support
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11. 02
03
01 Gather school reports, past assessments, and key
health information.
01
Note your symptoms with real-life examples to share.
02
Involve someone who knows you well, like a partner,
teacher or friend.
03
Arrive early, bring notes, and ask for breaks if needed.
04
Practical
Checklist for
ADHD
Assessment
Tips and Best Practices
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12. Why Affective
Care
Affective Care walks beside you through each step of the ADHD journey.
Pre-assessment guidance and preparation
Help gathering evidence for assessments or NDIS
Therapy and emotional support services
Skill-building for routine, organisation, and emotional regulation
Support during school or workplace adjustments
Collaboration with GPs, specialists and teachers
Emotionally-centred care rooted in respect and understanding
www.affectivecare.com.au

13. Ready to Talk About
the Diagnosis
Process?
We’re here to support your ADHD journey with clarity and care,
with no pressure.
Ask questions or share concerns
Get help preparing for assessments
Understand your diagnostic report
Navigate school, workplace, or NDIS pathways
Explore next steps at your own pace
Receive compassionate and person-centred guidance
Reach out anytime for a supportive conversation
www.affectivecare.com.au

14. Contact
Affective Care
1300 615 193
Need support or have questions about ADHD
Diagnosis?
Our team is here to guide you with compassionate,
emotionally-centered care.
Empowering Lives With Heart
Shop 1/538-546 Canterbury Rd,
CAMPSIE NSW 2194
www.affectivecare.com.au
CALL US NOW

15. Thank You
Let’s walk this journey together; because every story matters.
For Attention
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