Assessment & Diagnostic Process
At the heart of our mission lies the unwavering commitment to delivering an exceptional standard of care. We strive to offer a best-practice approach that is not only tailored to your unique needs but is also marked by its responsiveness and timeliness.
Imagine a clinic that follows a 'stepped care' model, where your journey is thoughtfully structured. Here, your care during your treatment process is our top priority, and our diagnostic and management process is meticulously designed to provide you with the highest level of care and support for your health needs.
This ensures that you receive precisely the care and guidance you deserve, exactly when you need it.
A provisional diagnostic assessment (or Neuropsychological Assessment), often conducted by a psychologist or mental health professional, serves several important purposes before seeing a psychiatrist for ADHD/ASD:
One - Clarification of Symptoms
A provisional diagnostic assessment helps in clarifying and understanding the symptoms and their impact. It ensures that the patient's presentation is consistent with the diagnostic criteria for ADHD, as outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). This step helps to rule out other conditions that may mimic ADHD symptoms.
Two - Differential Diagnosis
Many other conditions (such as anxiety, depression, learning disabilities, or even medical conditions) can present with symptoms that resemble ADHD. A provisional assessment helps in differentiating ADHD from these other conditions, ensuring an accurate diagnosis.
Three - Personalisation of Treatment
ADHD is a complex condition, and the most effective treatment plan may vary from person to person. A provisional assessment helps identify the specific challenges, strengths, and needs of the individual, which can inform the treatment plan.
Four - Medical Considerations
If medication is being considered as part of the treatment plan, a provisional assessment helps in determining whether medication is necessary and which type might be most suitable. It also assists in monitoring the patient's response to medication if prescribed.
Five - Psychosocial & Behavioural Interventions
The assessment can guide the development of non-pharmacological interventions and support strategies that can be implemented in conjunction with or as an alternative to medication.
Six - Treatment Planning
After the provisional diagnosis, a comprehensive treatment plan can be developed, potentially involving not only medication but also psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, and other supportive measures.
Seven - Legal & Academic Accommodations
A provisional diagnosis can be a prerequisite for seeking academic or workplace accommodations. It can be important for individuals who need special considerations to perform their best in educational and professional settings.
In summary, a provisional diagnostic assessment prior to seeing a psychiatrist for ADHD/ASD is a crucial step in ensuring an accurate diagnosis and the development of a tailored treatment plan. It helps to rule out other conditions, personalise treatment, and guide the entire therapeutic process, whether medication is involved or not.
Please note, whilst our model of care does require a psychometric diagnostic assessment report they do not guarantee treatment. We can only offer appointments subject to availability and when ADHD/ASD is the primary condition requiring treatment.
Step One - Provide a Referral
While Medicare standards don't require a referral, it is highly recommended for your benefit. It helps us collect vital medical history to assess your needs efficiently. Here are instructions on how to proceed.
- If you have a GP Referral, please send it to us at admin@emmeco.com.au for comprehensive care
- If referred by one of our specialist psychiatrists, we will handle the referral internally for your convenience
Your wellbeing is our top concern, and timely information ensures personalised and effective care.
Step Two - Schedule an Assessment
After reviewing your referral, our clinic will promptly contact you to schedule your assessment appointment. Please note that a full deposit is required at the time of booking. Following your reservation, you will receive a comprehensive appointment package containing all the necessary appointment details, testing materials, and registration forms for completion.
Your convenience is our priority and this process allows for a seamless and transparent process, ensuring your readiness for the assessment.
Step Three - Your Assessment
Your assessment will be conducted through secure video Telehealth software. Before your appointment, it is essential to ensure your hardware is compatible, and we will provide instructions for pre-testing when we send you the appointment access link.
To ensure a successful session, please confirm a stable internet connection and choose a quiet, private space. You will find detailed preparation instructions in your appointment package.
Kindly prepare for a session of up to four hours and make sure you are comfortable and ready for the assessment. Your wellbeing and the quality of your experience are important.
Step Four - Feedback Session & Report
The feedback session with Dr Connolly/Dr McMah post-provisional diagnosis is crucial. It confirms diagnosis, educates, supports, and empowers, setting the stage for a collaborative treatment plan.
You will also receive your assessment report for your records. If referred by our specialist psychiatrist, they will also receive a copy of your report.
How to Guide
Schedule an Initial Consultation with our Psychiatrist
Step One - Provide Documentation, Testing & Consents
Upon making an enquiry to schedule an ADHD assessment with Dr Theodoratos, we kindly request that you can provide to our practice a:
- GP Referral
- Neuropsychological Assessment Report
- School Reports [or a declaration should school reports be unavailable]
We will also provide you with practice specific intake documentation for completion.
Once completed and returned to us, our psychiatrist will then review your documentation to determine the need for administrative processing. This phase includes a detailed examination by our psychiatrist to evaluate if ADHD treatment is suitable for you.
Step Two - Schedule Processing of Documentation
If processing is required, we will schedule a session where the doctor reviews all of your documentation. There is a $250.00 fee associated with this service, which supports our comprehensive care approach.
Step Three - Schedule an Initial Consultation
Following documentation processing, if the doctor believes ADHD treatment is possible, we will promptly schedule your initial consultation. Choose between in-person or Telehealth for your 50-minute appointment, designed for your convenience.
Please note a $250.00 deposit is required at the time of booking. We offer flexible appointments within 1-8 weeks, prioritising your health and ease throughout your treatment journey.
Step Four - Initial Consultation
The initial consultation with a psychiatrist for ADHD is a critical step in the assessment and treatment process. It aims to establish an accurate diagnosis, develop an individualised treatment plan, and provide guideance and support to improve the individuals health and functioning.
After a treatment plan has been developed, further appointments will be directed as the doctor deems necessary. This may include a 50-minute Secondary Assessment appointment.
Step Five - Medication Pathway
Once a diagnosis is confirmed and treatment plans are in place, you may embark on a medication trial. During this phase, you will need to schedule monthly appointments with Dr Theodoratos until a stable and effective dosage is established. This consistent follow-up ensures that your treatment aligns with your specific needs.
Step Six - Shared Care with GP & 6/12 Monthly Review Appointments
Once your treatment has reached a stable and effective point, the doctor will determine if you need review consultations every six months or annually. In this regard, all pertinent medical and prescribing details will be shared with your GP to establish a collaborative care arrangement.
To ensure the continuity of your treatment and care during these six monthly or annual review appointments, you will be asked to provide the following:
- New GP Referral
- Pathology Reports
- Blood Pressure Measurements
- ECG (Electrocardiogram) Report
- Urine Drug Screen Report
These measures are essential to sustain your ongoing treatment and maintain its efficacy.
Step One - Provide Documentation, Referrals & Consents
Upon making an enquiry to schedule an ADHD assessment with Dr Theodoratos, we kindly request that you can provide to our practice a:
- GP Referral
- School Reports [or a declaration should school reports be unavailable]
We will also provide you with practice specific intake documentation for completion.
Our psychiatrist will then review your documentation to determine whether ADHD treatment would be beneficial in your case. Your wellbeing is our priority, and this meticulous review ensures the doctor can determine the most suitable course of action.
Step Two - Schedule an Initial Consultation
Following the careful consideration of your referral, if the doctor finds that ADHD treatment may be beneficial, we will promptly contact you to arrange an initial consultation. Choose between an in-person or Telehealth session for your 50-minute appointment, designed to cater to your convenience and wellbeing.
Please note a $250.00 deposit is required at the time of booking. We offer flexible appointments within 1-8 weeks, ensuring you have options that suit your schedule and needs. Your health is important to us, and we aim to make your journey as accommodating and seamless as possible.
Step Three - Initial Consultation
The initial consultation with a psychiatrist for ADHD aims to diagnose and personalise treatment. Subsequent appointments will align with Dr Theodoratos' recommendations, and may involve additional 50-minute Secondary Assessment appointments.
If Dr Theodoratos recommends that you undergo a Formal Psychometric Assessment, we have two practitioners working alongside Dr Theodoratos within emmeco who we can recommend. Please note, that the processing of external reports from alternative practices will incur a fee of $250.00.
Step Four - Medication Pathway
Once a diagnosis is confirmed and treatment plans are in place, you may embark on a medication trial. During this phase, you will need to schedule monthly appointments with Dr Theodoratos until a stable and effective dosage is established. This consistent follow-up ensures that your treatment aligns with your specific needs.
Step Five - Shared Care with GP & 6/12 Monthly Review Appointments
Once your treatment has reached a stable and effective point, the doctor will determine if you need review consultations every six months or annually. In this regard, all pertinent medical and prescribing details will be shared with your GP to establish a collaborative care arrangement.
To ensure the continuity of your treatment and care during these six monthly or annual review appointments, you will be asked to provide the following:
- New GP Referral
- Pathology Reports
- Blood Pressure Measurements
- ECG (Electrocardiogram) Report
- Urine Drug Screen Report
These measures are essential to sustain your ongoing treatment and maintain its efficacy.
Step One - Provide Documentation, Testing & Previous Psychiatric Correspondence
Upon making an enquiry to schedule an ADHD assessment with Dr Theodoratos, we kindly request that you can provide to our practice a:
- GP Referral
- Psychiatric Correspondence regarding previous/paediatric diagnosis of ADHD/ASD
- Neuropsychological Assessment Report
- School Reports [or a declaration should school reports be unavailable]
We will also provide you with practice specific intake documentation for completion.
Our psychiatrist will review your documentation to determine the need for administrative processing. This phase includes a detailed examination by our psychiatrist to evaluate if ADHD treatment is suitable for you.
Step Two - Schedule Processing of Documentation
If processing is required, we will schedule a session where the doctor reviews all of your documentation. There is a $250.00 fee associated with this service, which supports our comprehensive care approach.
Step Three - Schedule an Initial Consultation
Following documentation processing, if the doctor believes ADHD treatment is possible, we will promptly schedule your initial consultation. Choose between in-person or Telehealth for your 50-minute appointment, designed for your convenience.
Please note a $250.00 deposit is required at the time of booking. We offer flexible appointments within 1-8 weeks, prioritising your health and ease throughout your treatment journey.
Step Four - Initial Consultation
The initial consultation with a psychiatrist for ADHD is a critical step in the assessment and treatment process. It aims to establish an accurate diagnosis, develop an individualised treatment plan, and provide guidance and support to improve the individuals health and functioning.
After a treatment plan has been developed, further appointments will be directed as the doctor deems necessary. This may include a 50-minute Secondary Assessment appointment.
Step Five - Medication Pathway
Once a diagnosis is confirmed and treatment plans are in place, you may embark on a medication trial. During this phase, you will need to schedule monthly appointments with Dr Theodoratos until a stable and effective dosage is established. This consistent follow-up ensures that your treatment aligns with your specific needs.
Step Six - Shared Care with GP & 6/12 Monthly Review Appointments
Once your treatment has reached a stable and effective point, the doctor will determine if you need review consultations every six months or annually. In this regard, all pertinent medical and prescribing details will be shared with your GP to establish a collaborative care arrangement.
To ensure the continuity of your treatment and care during these six monthly or annual review appointments, you will be asked to provide the following:
- New GP Referral
- Pathology Reports
- Blood Pressure Measurements
- ECG (Electrocardiogram) Report
- Urine Drug Screen Report
These measures are essential to sustain your ongoing treatment and maintain its efficacy.
Appointments are subject to availability and are dependant upon whether a patient fulfils our patient intake requirements
Contact Us
Wesley Specialist Centre
Level 2, Suite 7,
87 Lang Parade
AUCHENFLOWER QLD 4006
Reception Hours
8.30am - 4.00pm | Monday-Thursday
Please note: practice is closed Fridays, weekends & public holidays
Emergency Care & After Hours Information
This practice does not have the capacity to offer emergency care or crisis counselling. In the event of an emergency please phone 000.
Additional Support Contacts:
- 1300 MH CALL (1300 642 255) a confidential mental health telephone triage service for Queenslanders
- Mental Health Crisis Line (1800 011 511)
- Lifeline (13 11 14)
- Beyond Blue (1300 224 636)
- Suicide Call Back Service (1300 659 467)
