Overview

The Test of Variables of Attention (TOVA) is a continuous performance test that measures attention variables with 1ms accuracy for people aged 4 to 80 years old. This half-day presentation aims to introduce the TOVA test, demonstrate the administration procedure, then practice interpreting the results. Examples of caffeine affected attention, gym supplement affected attention, 'classic' ADHD signs, response to treatment (i.e., whilst medicated), and symptoms due to other clinical factors (e.g., sleep disorder/fatigue, complex trauma) will be presented. Examples of intentionally feigned ADHD will also be presented.

This workshop aims to provide sufficient coverage of the test essentials whilst providing an interpretive framework that clinicians might subsequently use. It is emphasised that the TOVA is not a test of ADHD. Rather, it is a test of attention that can be useful in considering possible ADHD traits, symptom validity, differentials, comorbidities, and treatment response.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this event, participants should be able to:

• Learn to administer and interpret the TOVA test
• Understand and apply interpretive diagnostic framework
• Explore features of TOVA results relevant to differential diagnosis

Presenter(s)

Dr. Grant Blake

About the presenter(s)

Dr. Blake is a Clinical Psychologist in private practice and the Clinical Director of the Intensive Trauma Treatment Centre (ITTC). His therapeutic practice primarily centres around the treatment of PTSD, depression, grief, anxiety and the multi-disciplinary neurodevelopmental assessments of adults. Dr. Blake provides independent expert witness evidence for complex forensic mental health matters, including for criminal law, family law, child safety, compensation, and decision-making capacity. He is an Accredited Medical Practitioner with WorkCover Tasmania to assess compensable psychiatric injuries. He actively provides shadow expert and independent expert witness evidence on mental health tests and reports.

Notes

Registration includes light refreshments.

Target Audience

This activity is aimed at AHPRA REGISTERED Psychologists (General, Clinical, Forensic, Neuropsychologists, Education/Developmental).

CPD

It is up to attendees to assess and determine how learning from this event aligns with the requirements of their learning plan. The providers accordingly do not make any representation that the event counts towards attendees’ CPD learning requirements. If an attendee determines themselves that the learning they complete aligns to their learning plan, then they can decide to count those hours towards their CPD requirements for the registration cycle.

The information in this presentation has been prepared in good faith and for educational purposes only. Therefore, the information is general in nature and should not be relied upon in the treatment of any condition and you should seek your own independent professional and/or legal advice concerning any specific issue. The APS accepts no responsibility for any errors, omissions or decisions relating to the information. The content should not be reproduced without permission or unless permitted by law.

If you are experiencing registration difficulties please contact APS Events Support.