Comprehensive ADHD Assessment Pathway for Women in Australia

Who this pathway is for

This pathway is designed for adults seeking an ADHD assessment and, where appropriate, treatment planning. It is structured, thorough, and clinically safe, ensuring that practical steps are clear.

Step 1: Triage Before Booking

If You Have Not Had an ADHD Diagnosis Before

We begin with an initial screening of your referral and presenting concerns. If your referral is not suitable for our service, we will decline early. This allows you to redirect your time and resources elsewhere. If it is suitable, we will accept you into the assessment pathway.

If You Have a Previous ADHD Diagnosis

We usually request the prior diagnostic report before considering your referral. This is important because it informs us about what was assessed, which tools were used, and what conclusions were drawn. If accepted, your diagnostic documentation will be reviewed in session with you, and additional information will be collected as needed. Please note that a previous assessment does not automatically confirm your diagnosis. Our psychiatrists must be satisfied that ADHD is present based on their own psychiatric assessment.

Step 2: Pre-Assessment Paperwork and Booking

Once accepted, you will receive:

• An invitation to proceed

• Our assessment agreement and key terms

• Required questionnaires to complete before Appointment 1

• A physical health form for your GP

  
  

When your appointments are booked, we will send the questionnaire pack and any additional instructions you need to prepare.

Step 3: The Three-Appointment Assessment Structure

Appointment 1: Comprehensive Psychiatric Assessment + DIVA

This session focuses on:

• A full psychiatric assessment, covering your history, symptoms, functioning, and context

• A structured ADHD interview

  
  

Towards the end of Appointment 1, we will usually organise the next safety and evidence steps. This may include:

• A request for baseline blood tests and an ECG if not already provided

• Clear instructions for collateral information, such as school reports or input from a family member who knew you in childhood

  
  

Why We Do This: ADHD is a developmental condition. Symptoms should trace back to childhood, even if they were missed, masked, or mislabelled. Collateral information is key and helps us avoid misdiagnosis.

Appointment 2: Review Results, Collateral, and Questionnaires + GP Coordination

This appointment brings together what we have collected:

• Review of results (blood tests and ECG if requested)

• Review of questionnaires and structured rating scales

• Review of collateral information and developmental history

  
  

If an ADHD diagnosis is confirmed and treatment is being considered, we require a physical health form to be filled out by your General Practitioner. You will need to book an appointment with your GP to complete this together and return it to us.

Appointment 3: Prescribing and Treatment Plan (When Appropriate)

If medication is clinically appropriate, safe, and consistent with regulations, we will use this appointment to:

• Confirm readiness to start treatment

• Discuss options, expected benefits, common side effects, and monitoring

• Start prescribing where permitted

  
  

At the end of this appointment, we will send a letter to your General Practitioner outlining the diagnoses, treatment started, future plans, and follow-up expectations. If medication is not appropriate, we will finalise a non-pharmacological plan and recommendations.

What You Can Do to Make the Process Smoother

Before Appointment 1

• Complete questionnaires as early as possible.

• Start looking for school reports if you have them.

• Identify someone who can provide collateral, if needed (such as a parent, older sibling, or long-term caregiver).

  
  

Between Appointment 1 and 2

• Arrange blood tests and ECG promptly if not already completed, or send existing results to us by email to be uploaded to your file.

• Return any remaining questionnaires or forms.

• Confirm collateral arrangements and/or continue to source school reports.

  
  

Between Appointment 2 and 3

• Book your General Practitioner appointment if required.

• Return any General Practitioner-completed forms without delay.

  
  

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Do You Need Questionnaires and Collateral?

They help us assess ADHD symptoms across time, settings, and impairment domains. They also help distinguish ADHD from conditions that can appear similar, such as anxiety, trauma-related symptoms, sleep disorders, depression, or hormonal transitions.

Do I Always Need Blood Tests and an ECG?

Almost always. It depends on your medical history, symptoms, risk factors, and the treatment options being considered. Many physical conditions can mimic psychiatric conditions, so it is important to exclude those as contributions to what is happening. An ECG is always required if considering starting stimulants.

Do You Always Prescribe Stimulants?

No. Medication choice is individual and based on diagnosis, safety, personal preference, and your clinical context. Some people benefit from non-stimulant options or non-medication strategies, while others may not require medication at all.

Can You Prescribe in Every Situation?

Prescribing rules and permit requirements vary by state and clinical circumstances. We will clearly communicate what is possible in your situation and what steps are needed.

How Much Does It Cost?

You can view our full schedule of fees here. Medicare rebates are processed automatically after each session. Please note that, in line with clinic policy, a deposit is required at the time of booking to secure each appointment.

Is A Report Included ?

Your psychiatrist will always write a clear letter outlining your assessment, diagnosis and management plan to your GP. Reports are not a standard inclusion of our psychiatric assessments at Lunea.

If I Have a Previous Diagnosis, Can I Just Have an Appointment for Medication?

No. Psychiatrists are obliged according to AHPRA and state-based regulations to make their own assessment before becoming a prescriber.

Conclusion

Navigating the ADHD assessment pathway can feel overwhelming. However, I assure you that our structured approach is designed to support you every step of the way. By understanding the process and preparing in advance, you can make this journey smoother and more effective. Remember, you are not alone in this. We are here to provide the specialized care you need to address your mental health challenges and help you achieve recovery and well-being.