ADHD Assessment
and Therapy

Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder is defined as a persistent pattern of inattention and or  hyperactivity that interferes with functioning at work/school or development. While ADHD is a recognised condition in children,  there is now an increasing awareness that symptoms may be present in adolescence and even adulthood. Many adults would not have been diagnosed during childhood due to a lack of awareness of the condition at that time. DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition) lists ten symptoms for inattention of which six or more must have  persisted for at least six months to a degree that is inconsistent with developmental level and impairs academic, social or professional performance. Some of the symptoms are

1. Failure to give close attention to detail or careless mistakes at work or during other activities.
2. Difficulties to sustain attention.
3. Does not seem to listen when spoken to directly.
4. Does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish tasks.
5. Difficulties in organising tasks or activities.
6. Avoidance of tasks that require sustained mental effort.
7. Losing things necessary for the task or activities.

8. Distraction by external events or unrelated thoughts.

9. Forgetfulness of daily activities.

There are nine symptoms in DSM-5 for hyperactivity and impulsivity of which six or more must have persisted for at least  six months to a degree that results in impaired functioning at school, work or any activity that requires mental effort. The nine symptoms are

1. Fidgets with or taps hands/feet and the inability to sit in a relaxed position.
2. Leaving in situations where it is expected to remain seated.
3. In adults, feeling restless.
4. Difficulties in engaging in leisure activities quietly.
5. Being "on the go" as if "driven by a motor".
6. Talking excessively.
7. Completing other people's sentences.
8. Distraction by external events or unrelated thoughts.
9. Forgetfulness of daily activities.

ADHD begins in childhood and several symptoms must be present before age 12 years. Since depression and anxiety can also 

 result in irritation and concentration problems, it is important to differentiate between ADHD as a neuro-developmental 

disorder and other mental health problems that may occur later in life.  In this sense, many of the tests that are 

  freely available on the Internet are insufficient for a diagnosis since they do not allow for the possibility that symptoms

 are the result of other mental health problems.

We offer evidence-based Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) alongside structured ADHD coaching to support both emotional wellbeing and day-to-day functioning. In many cases, these approaches are integrated to achieve the best outcomes. CBT focuses on identifying and modifying unhelpful thinking patterns that contribute to low motivation, distractibility, anxiety, or reduced mood. It also provides practical strategies to improve emotional regulation, problem-solving, and resilience.

ADHD coaching complements this work by targeting everyday challenges such as organisation, time management, task initiation, and follow-through. Sessions are practical and goal-oriented, helping clients develop personalised systems, strengthen motivation, build effective routines, and apply calming and self-regulation techniques in real-world situations. Coaching also supports accountability and the consistent implementation of strategies discussed in therapy.

All ADHD coaching services are delivered by registered psychologists, including provisional psychologists who are undertaking supervised practice. This ensures that coaching is grounded in psychological science, ethically delivered, and closely aligned with each client’s broader therapeutic goals.

Personal coaching services are available for clients with an established ADHD diagnosis. ADHD coaching is hands-on and includes setting and decomposition, motivational strategies, visualisation methods, reminder systems and relaxation techniques. We clients on the use of brain training techniques as well. Frequently, ADHD coaching is an online service: a one-to-one, personal and confidential online consultation by use of Skype, WhatsApp  or a similar service. The online consultation offers a number of advantages:

1. ADHD coaching is available after hours and on weekends.
2. ADHD coaching fees are lower than psychological therapy due to the reduced overheads.
3. If the client is at home or at work, we help to organise the study and learning environment.
4. Online coaching allows more frequent consultations between psychologist and client.
5. The online service makes it easy to integrate partners and family members.
6. Online psychological testing by a clinical psychologist is available as well. Some conditions apply.
7. Online services make it easy to track progress and to help in case of a relapse.