At Brookland Medical Centre, Dr. Kate Schilling, a highly skilled General Practitioner, offers ADHD assessment for aged 7 years and older patients. If you or a loved one suspect ADHD, Dr. Kate is here to provide expert evaluation and compassionate care.
ADHD ASSESSMENT
Dr. Kate conducts an initial standard consultation lasting 15 minutes with the patient. For those deemed suitable, she will schedule a prolonged consultation lasting 45 minutes specifically tailored for ADHD assessment, utilising DSM-5 criteria. Depending on the outcome, some patient may be referred to a psychiatrist for the further evaluation and treatment.
Dr Kate Schilling
MBBS
FRACGP
Bachelors in Biomedical Science
Dr. Kate specialises in providing thorough assessments for ADHD in individuals aged 7 years and older. As a General Practitioner (GP) with extensive experience in this field, Dr. Kate focuses on accurate diagnosis and evaluation to ensure the best possible care for her patients.
ASSESSMENT PROCESS:
Initial Screening (15 minutes): The assessment process begins with a brief initial screening to gather pertinent information about the patient's symptoms and history.
Investigations: Depending on the initial screening results and individual circumstances, further investigations may be recommended to gather additional information for a comprehensive assessment.
45-Minute ADHD Assessment Appointment: For suitable patients, a 45-minute appointment is arranged to conduct a thorough ADHD assessment using the DSM-5 criteria. This comprehensive evaluation allows Dr. Kate to make an informed diagnosis.
REFERRAL PROCESS:
High-Risk Patients: Patients deemed to be at high risk or requiring specialist treatment are promptly referred for psychiatric evaluation and treatment. Dr. Kate ensures that patients receive appropriate care tailored to their specific needs.
Collaboration with Specialists: Depending on the assessment outcome, patients may be referred to psychiatrists and/or psychologists for further evaluation and treatment. Dr. Kate maintains close collaboration with these specialists to ensure continuity of care for her patients.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
It's important to note that Dr. Kate specialises in assessment services only and does not initiate ADHD treatment. However, her thorough assessments serve as a crucial first step in the journey towards effective management and care for individuals with ADHD.
FEE:
Fees and billing policy as per our standard fees
15 minutes: $75 (Medicare Rebate: $41.40)
45 minutes: $185 (Medicare Rebate: $118.60)
If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please don't hesitate to contact us. Dr. Kate and her team are dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to individuals seeking ADHD assessment services.
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects people of all ages, including children, adolescents, and adults. It's important to understand that ADHD is not simply a lack of focus or excessive energy; it's a complex condition that impacts various aspects of a person's life.
Understanding ADHD:
KEY CHARACTERISTICS OF ADHD:
Inattention: Individuals with ADHD may struggle with paying attention to details, making careless mistakes, and maintaining focus on tasks or activities. They may also have difficulty organizing tasks and activities, often leading to forgetfulness and disorganization.
Hyperactivity: Hyperactivity is another hallmark of ADHD, particularly in children. This may manifest as excessive fidgeting, restlessness, and difficulty staying seated, especially in situations where it's expected to remain still.
Impulsivity: Impulsivity refers to acting without thinking about the consequences. People with ADHD may have trouble waiting their turn, interrupting others, and making decisions impulsively without considering the long-term effects.
DSM-5 CRITERIA FOR ADHD DIAGNOSIS:
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), outlines specific criteria for diagnosing ADHD. According to the DSM-5, individuals must exhibit symptoms of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that significantly interfere with functioning or development, persist for at least six months, and are inconsistent with their developmental level.
SUBTYPES OF ADHD:
Predominantly Inattentive Presentation: This subtype is characterised by primarily experiencing symptoms of inattention without significant hyperactivity-impulsivity.
Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation: Individuals with this subtype primarily display symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity without significant inattention.
Combined Presentation: This subtype involves symptoms of both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity.
TREATMENT & MANAGEMENT:
While there is no cure for ADHD, effective management strategies can significantly improve symptoms and quality of life. Treatment options may include:
Medication: Stimulant medications and non-stimulant medications are commonly prescribed to help manage symptoms of ADHD.
Therapy: Behavioral therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and other forms of psychotherapy can help individuals develop coping strategies and improve their organisational skills.
Education and Support: Educating oneself and others about ADHD, seeking support from family, friends, and support groups, and implementing accommodations in academic and work settings can also be beneficial.
CONCLUSION:
ADHD is a complex condition that can have a profound impact on various aspects of life. By understanding the key characteristics and seeking appropriate diagnosis and treatment, individuals with ADHD can learn to effectively manage their symptoms and thrive in their personal and professional lives. If you suspect you or a loved one may have ADHD, seeking evaluation and guidance from a qualified healthcare professional is the first step towards obtaining the support and resources needed for successful management.