ADHD and ASD Assessment for Children and Adults
At Adelaide Clinical Psychology, we provide comprehensive combined ADHD and ASD assessments for children and adults. Our warm and caring team uses evidence-based methods to assess ADHD and ASD accurately. We take a holistic approach, considering developmental history and environmental factors that may influence how each individual experiences and presents their challenges.
Our assessments are designed to be comprehensive, covering a range of areas including social and communication skills, and emotional regulation. Our goal is to provide accurate assessments and ensure you receive the best possible support.
Understanding ADHD and ASD Assessments
An ADHD and ASD assessment is a comprehensive psychological evaluation conducted by a trained psychologist. It examines cognitive functioning, attention, social communication, behavioural patterns, and emotional well-being to determine whether ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder), or both are present.
What Is ADHD?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, impulse control, and behaviour regulation. It can present differently from person to person. Some individuals are predominantly inattentive, others are hyperactive-impulsive, and many experience a combination of both.
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Common signs of ADHD include:
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Difficulty sustaining focus on tasks
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Frequent forgetfulness or losing things
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Acting impulsively without considering consequences
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Restlessness or difficulty sitting still
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Poor time management and planning
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Inconsistent performance across different tasks or settings
What Is ASD?
ASD is a neurodevelopmental condition that reflects natural differences in how a person communicates, processes sensory information, and relates to others. It exists across a broad spectrum, meaning each individual has a unique experience.
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Common signs of ASD include:
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Differences in social communication and interaction
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Strong preference for routine and predictability
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Intense, focused interests
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Sensory sensitivities (e.g., to sound, light, or texture)
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Difficulty interpreting social cues or unspoken rules
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Literal thinking and challenges with abstract language
What Is the Difference Between ADHD and ASD?
While ADHD and ASD can look similar on the surface, there are key differences between the two. ADHD is primarily characterised by difficulties with attention regulation, impulse control, and executive function.
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ASD, on the other hand, is more broadly defined by differences in social communication, sensory processing, and cognitive flexibility. That said, ADHD and ASD can co-occur, which means assessing for both at the same time is not only logical but often essential for an accurate understanding. A combined assessment ensures that nothing is missed and any overlapping traits are properly understood.
ADHD and ASD Assessment for Children
Children with ADHD or ASD may be misunderstood as lazy, naughty, or shy, but in reality, they may be struggling with a neurodevelopmental disorder. A thorough assessment gives families and educators a clear understanding of a child's individual profile.
Our experienced psychologists work carefully to make the assessment process as comfortable and reassuring as possible for children. We take time to explain each step, and we always approach children with warmth, patience, and care.
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A child assessment typically covers:
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Cognitive ability and processing skills: including attention, memory, and executive functioning skills such as planning, organisation, and flexible thinking.
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Attention and impulse control: identifying difficulties sustaining focus, managing impulses, and self-regulation.
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Social and emotional functioning: assessing social communication, emotional regulation, and behaviour in different settings (home, school, and social environments).
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Autism-related traits and communication patterns: including differences in social interaction, sensory sensitivities, and unusual responses to the environment.
Learning challenges (optional): screening for specific learning disorders such as dyslexia, dysgraphia, or dyscalculia.
ADHD and ASD Assessment for Adults
Many adults spend years questioning why everyday tasks feel harder and why they experience the world differently from those around them. A combined ADHD and ASD assessment for adults explores how these conditions present across daily life, relationships, work, and emotional well-being.
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Our psychologists understand that seeking an assessment as an adult can feel overwhelming. We approach every assessment with sensitivity and care, ensuring you feel heard and respected throughout the process.
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An adult ADHD and ASD assessment looks at:
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Attention, concentration, and working memory: identifying difficulties sustaining focus, managing information, and juggling multiple tasks.
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Adaptive functioning: understanding everyday life skills such as communication, independence, decision-making, and managing daily responsibilities.
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Functioning and task management: assessing planning, organisation, time management, and following through on complex tasks.
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Emotional regulation and impulsivity: understanding patterns of mood, stress response, and self-control.
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Social communication and interpersonal patterns: evaluating interactions, relationships, and social understanding.
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Sensory sensitivities and flexibility: recognising how sensory input or unexpected changes affect daily life.
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Developmental and historical review: considering childhood behaviours alongside current functioning across work, home, and social settings.
Combining ADHD and ASD Assessments
A combined ADHD and ASD assessment is a practical and efficient way to understand both conditions at once. This approach provides:
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Fewer appointments and less disruption to school or work.
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A clearer understanding of how ADHD and ASD traits may overlap.
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A single, comprehensive report addresses all areas of need in one place.
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Streamlined recommendations tailored to the individual’s cognitive, behavioural, and social skills.
Our Assessment Process
We've designed our assessment process to be clear, supportive, and thorough. Here's what to expect from start to finish:
STEP 1: INTAKE CALL
Your journey begins with a warm and welcoming intake call. Our Client Concierge will take the time to understand your concerns and answer any questions you have about the assessment process. This call helps clarify whether an ADHD assessment, ASD assessment, or combined assessment is the right fit for you.​​​
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INTAKE CALL
STEP 2: CLINICAL INTERVIEW
A one-on-one interview with your psychologist gathers a comprehensive picture of developmental history, current behaviours, and emotional wellbeing. For child assessments, this interview is conducted with parents and covers everything from early development to current academic and social functioning.
INTERVIEW
STEP 3: TESTING AND ASSESSMENT
The core of our process involves structured testing sessions. Depending on the assessment, this may include cognitive ability testing, executive function assessment, academic performance testing, and behavioural questionnaires. For children, teachers and parents (when applicable) will also complete online screening tools to provide additional context about the child's behaviour across different environments.
TESTING
STEP 4: COMPREHENSIVE REPORT AND ANALYSIS
Once testing is complete, our psychologist carefully analyses all collected data to identify patterns consistent with ADHD, ASD, or both. A detailed written report is then prepared, outlining the findings clearly and providing practical, tailored recommendations.
ANAlYSIS & REPORT
STEP 5: FEEDBACK SESSION
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The final step is a feedback session with your psychologist. This is an opportunity to discuss the findings in full, ask questions, and gain a clear understanding of the results and what they mean for you or your child.
FEEDBACK SESSION
Take the Next Step
Seeking an ADHD and ASD assessment can feel like a big decision but it doesn't have to feel overwhelming. Our kind and knowledgeable team is here to guide you every step of the way.
If you are ready to explore an ADHD and ASD assessment for yourself or your child, we invite you to reach out today. We'll answer your questions, explain your options, and walk alongside you from the very first call.