Seeing a Psychologist
If a parent or teacher thinks a child has problems with attention, hyperactivity or impulsivity, or if a young person thinks they have these difficulties, a referral should be made to a professional, such as a psychologist, with experience in assessing ADHD and developmental issues in children.
Psychologists are highly trained and qualified to diagnose and work with children and young people with ADHD, using methods based on the best available research. Psychologists understand the factors that can affect attention and concentration and how to help children, and their parents and teachers, to work on improving these skills and reduce the impact of ADHD. Clinical and educational and developmental psychologists play a particular role, as they have expertise in understanding developmental expectations and childhood challenges.
There are a few ways you can access a psychologist. You can:
- Use the Australia-wide Find a Psychologist service or call 1800 333 497.
- Ask your GP or another health professional to refer you.
If you are referred to a psychologist by your GP, you might be able to get a Medicare rebate that may assist you in meeting the costs of treatment. You may also be able to receive psychology services via telehealth so you don’t need to travel to see a psychologist. Ask your psychologist or GP for details.