Frequently Asked Questions

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how the brain regulates attention, impulses, and activity levels. It is not a character flaw or a lack of willpower. ADHD affects approximately 6-8% of Australian adults and can present as predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive, or a combined type. With the right support and strategies, people with ADHD can thrive in all areas of life.

ADHD can be diagnosed in children, adolescents, and adults. Many Australians are not diagnosed until later in life, particularly women who may have been overlooked during childhood. Our service currently provides assessments for adults aged 18 and over. If you have experienced long-standing difficulties with focus, organisation, or impulsivity, an assessment may be a worthwhile step.

Yes, ADHD is a well-established, evidence-based medical condition recognised by every major medical and psychological organisation in the world, including the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists. Decades of research, including neuroimaging studies, confirm that ADHD involves measurable differences in brain structure and function. It is one of the most thoroughly researched conditions in neuroscience.

ADHD is primarily genetic, with heritability estimated at around 70-80%. It involves differences in the way the brain produces and regulates neurotransmitters such as dopamine and noradrenaline. Environmental factors during pregnancy and early childhood may also play a role. ADHD is not caused by poor parenting, too much screen time, or diet, though these factors can influence how symptoms present.

The initial clinical assessment appointment typically takes between 45 and 60 minutes. All first-time assessments also require a follow-up consultation (15 to 30 minutes) where your clinician delivers your results and diagnostic report. Prior to the initial appointment, you will also complete an online intake questionnaire that takes approximately 15 minutes. The entire process, from booking to receiving your report, generally takes two to three weeks depending on clinician availability.

A GP referral is not strictly required to book an assessment with us, but we strongly recommend obtaining one. A Mental Health Care Plan from your GP allows you to access Medicare rebates, which significantly reduce your out-of-pocket cost. Your GP can also provide valuable background information that supports the assessment process.

During your assessment, your clinician will conduct a comprehensive clinical interview covering your developmental history, current symptoms, daily functioning, and mental health. They will use validated diagnostic tools and questionnaires aligned with the DSM-5 criteria. The appointment is conversational and supportive, not a test you can pass or fail. Your clinician will discuss their findings with you at the end of the session.

Complete the online intake form honestly and thoroughly before your appointment. If possible, gather any old school reports, as comments from teachers about focus and behaviour can be very helpful. It is also useful to think about how ADHD symptoms have affected different areas of your life, including work, relationships, and daily routines. There is no need to study or prepare answers in advance.

If your assessment does not result in an ADHD diagnosis, that is still a valuable outcome. Your clinician will discuss what might be contributing to your symptoms and recommend appropriate next steps, which could include further evaluation for other conditions such as anxiety, depression, or sleep disorders. You will still receive a detailed report that your GP can use to guide your ongoing care.

Yes, Medicare rebates may be available for ADHD assessments when you have a valid referral from your GP. The rebate covers a portion of the consultation fee, reducing your out-of-pocket expense. We recommend speaking with your GP before booking to ensure your referral is in place.

To obtain a Mental Health Care Plan, book an appointment with your GP and let them know you would like to be assessed for ADHD. Your GP will conduct a brief mental health assessment and, if appropriate, create a plan that entitles you to Medicare-rebated sessions. The GP appointment itself is typically bulk-billed or has a small fee, and the process usually takes around 20 to 30 minutes.

Your out-of-pocket cost depends on whether you have a Mental Health Care Plan and which clinician you see. With a valid MHCP, you will receive a Medicare rebate that significantly reduces the fee. Please visit our pricing page for a full breakdown of fees and rebates. We are committed to being transparent about costs with no hidden charges.

Some private health insurance policies include coverage for psychiatry consultations under their extras cover. However, coverage varies significantly between providers and plans, so we recommend checking with your insurer directly. Please note that you generally cannot claim both a Medicare rebate and a private health insurance rebate for the same session.

Yes, our clinicians are GPs and psychiatrists who are qualified to prescribe ADHD medication. If your assessment results in an ADHD diagnosis, your clinician can discuss medication options with you directly during your consultation. For existing diagnosed adults who already have an ADHD diagnosis, we also offer repeat prescription consultations.

ADHD medications in Australia include both stimulant and non-stimulant options. The choice of medication depends on your individual needs and is determined by a psychiatrist or authorised GP. Your prescribing doctor will discuss the specific options, benefits, and potential side effects with you in detail. Medication is often most effective when combined with behavioural strategies and lifestyle adjustments.

ADHD medications approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) have been extensively studied and are considered safe and effective when prescribed and monitored appropriately. Like all medications, they can have side effects, which your prescribing doctor will discuss with you in detail. Regular follow-up appointments ensure your medication is working well and that any side effects are managed promptly.

After booking, you will receive a secure video link via email before your appointment. At your scheduled time, simply click the link to join the session from your computer, tablet, or smartphone. The experience is just like a face-to-face consultation, with the added convenience of attending from wherever you are most comfortable. All our telehealth sessions are conducted over an encrypted, privacy-compliant platform.

You will need a device with a camera and microphone, such as a laptop, tablet, or smartphone, and a stable internet connection. We recommend using a quiet, private space where you will not be interrupted. No special software is required; the video session runs directly in your web browser. We will send you a test link beforehand so you can check your setup.

Research consistently shows that telehealth assessments for ADHD are just as reliable and valid as in-person consultations. The clinical interview and diagnostic tools used are identical regardless of the delivery method. Many clients actually prefer telehealth because it removes barriers such as travel, wait times, and the stress of unfamiliar clinical environments, which can be particularly beneficial for people with ADHD.