Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that are inconsistent with a child’s developmental level and interfere with functioning across settings. Under the DSM-5-TR, ADHD is classified into three presentations: predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive/impulsive, and combined presentation.
ADHD is not caused by poor parenting or lack of effort. It is neurological in origin and is associated with differences in the development and functioning of areas of the brain involved in attention, impulse control, and emotional regulation. Without appropriate identification and support, ADHD can significantly affect a child’s academic achievement, social relationships, and self-esteem.
Following a diagnosis of ADHD, it is important to put appropriate support and intervention in place. The assessment report from Dr Melissa Rouel will provide suggestions for behavioural and environmental modifications and can be used to inform a range of supports across home, school, and clinical settings.
The report can be shared with your child’s school to support access to reasonable adjustments, such as preferential seating, extended time, a modified workload, or a behaviour support plan. It can also be provided to a paediatrician or psychiatrist to support consideration of medication management, or to a psychologist for evidence-based intervention such as parent training programs or cognitive behavioural strategies targeting emotional regulation and impulsivity.
Where relevant, Dr Melissa Rouel can recommend referral to appropriate allied health professionals or support services in the Western Sydney area.
A child ADHD assessment may be appropriate for:
A neuropsychological assessment is used to identify ADHD in children and to differentiate it from other conditions that may present similarly, such as anxiety, specific learning disorders, or giftedness. Dr Melissa Rouel conducts comprehensive ADHD assessments for children and adolescents. A child ADHD assessment typically includes:
Following the assessment, a written report is provided to the family. The report outlines the findings, identifies any diagnosis, and includes recommendations for support and intervention at home and at school. A feedback appointment will also be scheduled to discuss these results.
ADHD is diagnosed through a comprehensive clinical assessment that includes structured interviews, standardised rating scales, and cognitive testing. Dr Melissa Rouel conducts neuropsychological assessments that consider the full range of a child's developmental, educational, and behavioural history to ensure an accurate diagnosis.
ADHD assessments are typically conducted from around age five or six, though comprehensive neuropsychological assessments are generally most informative from school age onwards. Dr Melissa Rouel assesses children, adolescents, and adults, and can advise on the most appropriate timing for assessment based on your child's circumstances.
Yes. ADHD and specific learning disorders such as dyslexia or dyscalculia frequently co-occur. Dr Melissa Rouel's assessments include academic screening to identify whether a co-occurring specific learning disorder may be present, ensuring the recommendations address the full picture of a child's needs.
Yes. A neuropsychological assessment report can be shared with your child's school to support access to reasonable adjustments, including additional time, a modified environment, or a behaviour support plan. The report can also be used to apply for access provisions in external examinations such as the HSC. Dr Melissa Rouel serves families across Castle Hill, Parramatta, Blacktown, Fairfield, and Kellyville.
A child ADHD assessment with Dr Melissa Rouel typically involves one session of approximately four hours, depending on the child's age and the complexity of the assessment. A written report and verbal feedback session are provided following the assessment. To make an enquiry, please visit neuropsy.com.au/contact.
Dr Melissa Rouel provides child ADHD assessments for children, adolescents, and adults. She sees clients from across Western Sydney and the Hills District including: Castle Hill and the Hills District, Parramatta and surrounding suburbs, Blacktown and Mount Druitt areas, Fairfield and South-Western Sydney, Kellyville, Rouse Hill, and Norwest. Telehealth options may be available for some parts of the assessment process. Please contact Dr Melissa Rouel to discuss whether this is suitable for your circumstances.