Testing for ADHD | Testing for Autism | Autism Screening and ADHD Tests at Kaleidoscope Academy
Assessment Services:
Parents will be offered a one-hour consultation to discuss their observations relating to their child’s development or performance in school. Information from this meeting will determine the intervention the EP considers most relevant for the child’s needs. This may include:
A referral to other professionals
The EP may feel that the child would be better supported by a speech language or occupational therapist, for example.
An informal assessment
An informal assessment includes the analysis of information gathered during a parent consultation, the review of work samples and any school results to date and possibly a school observation. This information will allow the EP to suggest support strategies and recommendations to parents and school.
A formal psycho-educational assessment
A formal psycho-educational assessment is made up of a series of individually administered tests, designed to evaluate a child’s cognitive ability (IQ) and academic achievement by comparing the child to same-age peers. It can be used to identify if the child has a specific learning difficulty. It also highlights the child’s unique profile of strengths and weaknesses so that suitable recommendations can be made. The process includes:
- an in-depth interview with those most involved with the child such as teachers and parents in order to gather as much information about the child as possible.
- A school visit may be organised so that the EP can observe the child at work and play.
- Formal testing that will require several hours to complete.
- A comprehensive written report.
- A feedback session with parents to discuss the results of the assessment and to provide recommendations and support strategies. Referrals to other services may be suggested at this point.
Diagnostic Assessment for Autism
Our psychologist is experienced in conducting autism assessments for children and teenagers. As part of this process, she may administer a formal assessment, gather information from other professionals working with the child, and conduct an extensive parent interview. Older children will also be assessed on their cognitive and academic functioning.
Diagnostic Assessment for ADHD
ADHD is diagnosed through comprehensive interviews, formal testing, and questionnaires completed by parents, teachers, and the child that are specifically designed to identify ADHD characteristics.
Pricing
Per hour | Contact Us |
Our Psychologists
Ph.D
Dr. Belinda Teo
– 12 Yrs’ Experience
Mpsych
Freda Sutanto
– 15 Yrs’ Experience
Master
Chong Ning Xin
– 8 Yrs’ Experience
Master
Kit Kwan Lim
– 15 Yrs’ Experience
Gallery
Why Choose Us?
Kaleidoscope’s Approach
Kaleidoscope’s Approach
Child-led
A child-led approach honors the child’s innate drive to learn, fosters curiosity, promotes collaboration and problem solving and helps to establish a trusting relationship. Allowing choice also leads to increased attention, motivation and task persistence.
Family-Focused
Our approach is first and foremost warm and caring. We are respectful, ethical and empathetic. We listen, value parental input and work hand-in-hand with families.
Strength-Based
A strength-based model of support incorporates the child’s strengths into therapy and uses these strengths to scaffold less developed skills as this increases motivation, builds confidence and provides more opportunities for success.
Testimonials
Hear what our happy parents and children are saying about us.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What does a typical ADHD test for a child involve?
A typical test for ADHD involves a thorough evaluation that scrutinizes the child’s behaviour in various environments, such as home and school. At Kaleidoscope Therapy Centre, our team uses a set of specialized tools that include clinical interviews, behaviour checklists or rating scales, and observations. The primary objective of these tools is to detect patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that are indicative of ADHD.
ADHD, like many mental health conditions, can significantly impact a person’s life, affecting their ability to perform daily tasks and interact socially. Early and accurate testing can provide a pathway to effective interventions that can improve quality of life for those with ADHD.
Are there specific tests for diagnosing ADHD in people?
Yes, a number of internationally recognized tools and tests are used to diagnose ADHD in people. These include behaviour rating scales completed by parents and teachers, structured interviews with the child and parents, and at times, cognitive or neuropsychological tests. It is critical to remember that there’s no single definitive ADHD test; instead, a diagnosis of ADHD is typically based on a combination of assessments to identify if someone meets the criteria for ADHD.
How can someone be sure they have ADHD and not other conditions?
As with many mental health conditions, diagnosing ADHD can be complex. ADHD shares symptoms with several other conditions, which can make it difficult to accurately identify. However, skilled professionals at Kaleidoscope Therapy Centre employ a rigorous, multi-step process for ADHD testing. This process involves a thorough medical, developmental, and psychosocial evaluation that takes into account a person’s ability to carry out daily tasks and perform in social settings. The aim is to differentiate ADHD from other conditions that might mimic ADHD symptoms, ensuring that the right diagnosis is made.
What criteria are used when testing for ADHD?
The criteria for an ADHD diagnosis are established based on international diagnostic guidelines and standards. These criteria include a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development, the presence of several inattentive or hyperactive-impulsive symptoms before a certain age, and clear evidence that these symptoms interfere with the quality of social, academic, or occupational functioning.
ADHD is not just a condition that impacts children. It also affects adults, which means the criteria for diagnosis need to take into account how ADHD symptoms can impact different stages of life. It’s crucial to get a proper evaluation from a trained mental health professional to ensure the right diagnosis. At Kaleidoscope Therapy Centre, we conduct a comprehensive assessment to determine whether the individual meets the criteria for ADHD.
What should parents expect during the ADHD testing process at Kaleidoscope Therapy Centre?
During the ADHD testing process at Kaleidoscope Therapy Centre, parents should expect a comprehensive evaluation of their child’s behaviour, academic performance, and social interactions. This evaluation forms an integral part of the overall ADHD screening process. Parents may be asked to complete questionnaires about their child’s behaviour, and teachers may also be involved, as their insights can provide valuable context to the child’s life at school.
The evaluation process is designed to provide a holistic view of the child’s functioning in order to arrive at the most accurate diagnosis. This diagnosis then forms the basis of a personalised treatment plan, which can greatly improve the life of a person living with ADHD.
How long does it take to test and diagnose ADHD?
The length of the ADHD testing process can vary greatly from person to person. It usually involves multiple appointments over several weeks, as gathering information from various sources and observing the child in different contexts is crucial for an accurate ADHD evaluation. Our team at Kaleidoscope Therapy Centre works diligently to provide a thorough assessment in a timely manner. We understand that the waiting period can be a stressful time, and we are committed to providing parents with feedback and treatment recommendations as quickly as possible.
Can ADHD testing differentiate between the different types of ADHD?
Yes, ADHD testing can help differentiate between the three types of ADHD: predominantly inattentive presentation, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation, and combined presentation. The type of ADHD is determined based on the symptoms that have been observed over six months or more. This is an important aspect of ADHD testing, as identifying the type of ADHD can have a significant impact on the choice of treatment strategies.
Different types of ADHD can present different challenges when it comes to managing daily tasks and social interactions. By accurately identifying the type of ADHD, we can help the person manage these things better, leading to improved mental health and overall quality of life.