What is ADHD?

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects focus, impulse control, and emotional regulation. It’s not about being lazy or misbehaving—it’s about how your child’s brain processes information and manages attention.

Common signs of ADHD include:

Difficulties with attention and organisation:

Struggles to stay focused on tasks or schoolwork
Easily distracted, even by small noises or movements
Frequently forgets or loses things like homework or school supplies
Trouble following multi-step instructions

Difficulties with impulsivity and hyperactivity:

Interrupts others or talks excessively
Finds it hard to sit still, often fidgeting or moving constantly
Acts without thinking, leading to accidents or trouble at school
Struggles to wait their turn or follow rules in games

Difficulties in social and emotional situations:

Trouble making or keeping friends due to impulsive behaviour
Overreacts emotionally or has frequent mood swings
Difficulty understanding personal space or social cues
Frequently feels frustrated, overwhelmed, or misunderstood

ADHD Assessment

This assessment is used to investigate the possibility of whether the individual meets the DSM-5-TR diagnostic criteria for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Reasons to Assess

If there are concerns around attention, concentration, or executive functioning—such as planning, goal-setting, focus, and self-regulation—this assessment can provide valuable insights
Assess core cognitive abilities that support learning, including verbal comprehension, fluid reasoning, processing speed, and working memory
Explore social and behavioural factors that may be influencing a person’s functioning, such as communication challenges, anxiety, or attention-related difficulties

What does it include?

Clinical interview (including parent)
Cognitive testing, such as WISC-IV or WAIS depending on age of person
Administration and scoring of behavioural screening questionnaires
Liaison with teachers and significant supports
Reading of previous testing reports (if applicable)
Up to 1 hour Feedback session
Comprehensive report including results, detailed recommendations, any relevant diagnosis, and recommendations for appropriate interventions and/or supports or further assessment

Does My Child Need an ADHD or Autism Assessment?

Not sure if you or your child might have ADHD or autism? In this blog, we explore common signs to look out for, when an assessment might be the right next step, and how gaining a deeper understanding can make life feel less overwhelming, for individuals and families alike.

Shane Dilanchian

Mother working on laptop at home while energetic child moves on couch, reflecting common attention and behaviour challenges explored in ADHD assessments on Sydney’s Northern Beaches.

Is Your Child Struggling at School? When to Seek an ADHD Assessment (Sydney's Northern Beaches)

If your child is finding it hard to concentrate, keep up at school, or manage big emotions, you might be wondering if ADHD could be the reason. In this blog, we explore when to seek an ADHD assessment on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, what’s involved, and how Skyline Psychology supports families every step of the way.

Shane Dilanchian