ADHD Psychologist Sydney

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental conditions.

It is a neurobiological disorder that affects the prefrontal cortex – the part of the brain that controls executive functioning, that is, the ability to self-regulate and control one’s thoughts, actions, emotions and words. People with ADHD often experience problems with impulse-control, hyperactivity, focusing and organisation. 

ADHD is a brain-based biological disorder, not a learning disability, mental illness or behavioural disorder. It is a chronic condition that affects millions of children and often continues into adulthood. Around 1 in 20 Australians has ADHD. More than 3 in 4 children diagnosed with ADHD continue to experience the symptoms into adulthood. It can have a significant effect on all aspects of their lives, including their studies, work, home life and personal relationships.

While ADHD is known to have neurological origins, researchers still aren’t sure about its exact causes. Evidence shows that ADHD is genetic and hereditary. Some research suggests that a factor may be reduced dopamine, the neurotransmitter that triggers emotional responses, while other research suggests it is due to structural differences in the brain associated with less grey matter volume. Researchers do not have anything conclusive yet and are still studying potential causes.

Groups at higher risk of having ADHD include:

• Children born prematurely or with low birthweight
• Children and adolescents in out-of-home care
• People with epilepsy
• People with other neurodevelopmental conditions
• People with mental health disorders
• People with some medical conditions
• People with brain injury
• People in prison
• People using addiction services

There are three main types of ADHD:

• Predominantly inattentive presentation
• Predominantly hyperactive/impulsive presentation
• Combined presentation

ADHD symptoms start before the age of 12 and may be noticeable as early as 3 years old.  Neurobiological factors interact with environmental factors to affect how symptoms present. They can be mild, moderate or severe, and often continue into adulthood. Symptoms also present differently in boys and men than in girls and women. There is a gap in existing knowledge about ADHD in girls and women, contributing to many girls and women getting misdiagnosed.

Symptoms may look different at different life stages. Here are some signs:

Children:

• trouble focusing and easily distracted
• low attention span 
• fidgeting, squirming, or trouble sitting still
• constantly needing movement or frequently running around
• engaging in activities loudly or disruptively
• excess talking and interrupting others

Adolescents:

• difficulty focusing
• frequently making mistakes
• trouble finishing tasks
• trouble with organisation and time management
• often forgetting or losing things
• increased frustration and emotional sensitivity
• trouble navigating relationships

Adults:

• difficulties at uni or work
• trouble passing classes or completing work
• issues with self-esteem and overall mental well-being
• substance misuse issues, especially with alcohol
• relationship challenges with partners, family, or co-workers
• frequent accidents or injuries

ADHD treatment varies according to each person’s specific symptoms and circumstances. The latest Australian ADHD guidelines detail the importance of access to multimodal treatments, including medication and non-medication (psychological) treatments. Non-medication treatments include lifestyle changes, parent/family training, cognitive-behavioural interventions and ADHD coaching. The guidelines recommend that people with ADHD should be taught how to minimise symptoms and maximise their personal strengths. Receiving early diagnosis and treatment can have a huge impact on a person’s life.  

At New Vision Psychology, we take a personalised approach ADHD therapy by considering each individual’s requirements. A tailored treatment plan is created for each client, considering factors such as the severity of their symptoms, and whether they have other coexisting conditions like ASD, anxiety, ODD or mood disorders.

There is no “magic number”! The number of sessions required varies according to each person. During your first counselling session with your psychologist, you’ll discuss your treatment goals and treatment plan. Based on your individual needs and circumstances, your psychologist will be able to give you an indication of how many sessions you’ll require.

ADHD affects all aspects of a person’s life. It causes problems at home, school, work and in relationships. Without receiving treatment, it is difficult to function at your best.

Seeing an ADHD psychologist allows you to receive a diagnosis and appropriate treatment. This will help you manage your symptoms and improve your daily life.

ADHD affects both children and adults, and some people don’t find out until they’re adults. If you think you or someone you know might have ADHD, it’s never too late to get an adult ADHD assessment. The sooner you get diagnosed, the sooner you can start managing your symptoms, overcome your challenges and improve your life.

Provisional psychologists are interns who are undergoing training and being supervised by fully registered psychologists. They have studied for 4 or 5 years, and require 1 or 2 more years of supervised practice, before they may receive their full registration from the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). Provisional psychologists are not eligible to provide a Medicare rebate.

Registered or general psychologists have received their full registration from AHPRA. They have completed at least 6 years of studies and training. More than 60% of Australia’s psychologists are registered psychologists. Psychologists with a general registration apply their skills across a broad range of professional settings. They assess, diagnose and treat a wide range of clients and areas of concern. They also conduct psychological assessments and write psychological reports. They do not have an endorsement in a specific area of practice. Registered psychologists are eligible to provide a Medicare rebate of $93.35 per session under the Better Access to Mental Health Care initiative.

Clinical psychologists have an endorsement in the area of clinical psychology. They have completed at least 8 years of studies and training. Clinical psychologists design and implement treatment strategies in clinical settings such as primary care, psychiatric and rehabilitation settings. In private practice, clinical and registered psychologists often do similar types of work. Clinical psychologists are eligible to provide a Medicare rebate of $137.05 per session under the Better Access to Mental Health Care initiative.

At New Vision Psychology, all our psychologists are registered or clinical psychologists. They meet high standards in education, training, supervised practice, ethics and ongoing professional development. They are also able to provide Medicare rebates. Whether you’re seeing a clinical or registered psychologist, you should expect the same quality of care, ethical behaviour and standard of practice.