Assessment may be worth considering when a longstanding pattern is causing significant difficulty at home, school, socially or emotionally. No single behaviour proves ADHD or autism, and assessment should consider development, strengths, context, learning, sleep, anxiety and other explanations.
Patterns that may prompt a conversation
Parents may notice persistent difficulties with attention, impulsivity, activity level, transitions, sensory experiences, social communication, emotional regulation, routines or recovering from daily demands. The important questions are how long the pattern has been present, where it appears and how much it affects the child.
What if school sees something different?
Children can behave differently across settings. Some hold themselves together in school and become overwhelmed at home; others struggle more in a busy classroom than in familiar family routines. Differences between reports are information to understand, not proof that one person is wrong.
What a good assessment should consider
- The child or young person’s own experience
- Developmental history from parents or carers
- Current functioning at home, school and socially
- Strengths, interests and protective factors
- Learning, language, sleep, anxiety, trauma and physical health
- Whether ADHD, autism, both or another explanation fits best
How parents can prepare
Write down concrete examples rather than only labels. Gather relevant school reports, developmental records or previous professional letters where available, but do not delay seeking advice solely because older records are missing.
Current private fees
Focused Care Psychology lists ADHD assessment at €600, autism assessment at €1,200 and combined assessment at €1,600. Payment plans are available. Specialised neurodevelopmental therapy is €120 per session.
Questions to ask any provider
- Who will complete the assessment and what are their qualifications?
- How will the child’s voice and parent information be included?
- Will school information be requested, and why?
- What report is included and who is it intended for?
- What happens if the evidence does not support a diagnosis?
Next step
A free 15-minute consultation can clarify whether assessment, therapy, parent consultation or another route is more appropriate.