ADHD Treatment

How does ADHD care work here?

1) Initial assessment and history

Your assessment starts with a GP with additional training and experience in mental health. We take a detailed developmental, educational, occupational and medical history, focusing on attention, impulsivity and executive functioning across life stages. Questionnaires and (where relevant) collateral information may be requested to confirm symptoms across settings.

2) Diagnosis and differential assessment

If ADHD criteria are met, we confirm the diagnosis. If not, we explain why and discuss alternative or contributing factors (for example, anxiety, burnout, sleep disorder) and the next steps.

3) Baseline health and cardiovascular risk assessment

Before medication is considered, we assess physical health factors that may affect ADHD management. This commonly includes a cardiovascular risk assessment, blood tests, and an ECG when clinically indicated, to support safe treatment choices.

4) Mental health plan and psychological support (when appropriate)

Where appropriate, a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan is commenced and you may be reviewed regularly with a psychologist. Therapy can help with planning, emotional regulation, procrastination, routines and self-criticism, whether or not medication is used.

5) Tailored treatment plan

Your plan is tailored to symptom profile, goals, health history, and preferences. It may include education, practical skill-building, work or study adjustments, and medication options when clinically appropriate.

6) Medication initiation and titration (when appropriate)

If medication is suitable, it is started carefully and adjusted over time to balance benefits and side effects, with planned follow-ups.

7) Ongoing monitoring and shared care for complex needs

We review progress against real-world outcomes (work/study function, sleep, mood, appetite, relationships and wellbeing) and continue monitoring where relevant. For complex presentations, we coordinate shared care with psychiatrists or other specialists to support safe, consistent treatment.

Medication options for ADHD

How does ADHD care work here?

In Queensland, many ADHD stimulant medicines (psychostimulants) are Schedule 8 controlled medicines, meaning prescribing is regulated and requires appropriate clinical safeguards and monitoring. State prescribing rules are separate to PBS subsidy rules, and prescriptions may require PBS authority processes depending on the medicine and patient circumstances.

Non-Medication Supports and Therapies

Non-medication strategies are a core part of ADHD care. Many people do best when skills and environment are addressed, not just symptoms. Evidence-based supports include psychoeducation and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) adapted for ADHD challenges such as procrastination, planning, emotional reactivity and self-criticism.

Lifestyle Foundations & Practical Supports

Sleep

Consistent timing and wind-down routines that protect rest and next-day focus.

Exercise

Regular aerobic activity to support mood and attention regulation.

Nutrition

Steady meals and a protein-containing breakfast for stable energy.

Structure

Calendars, reminders, visual cues, and "reduce friction" systems that make tasks easier to start.

Working alongside treatment: These supports work best as part of a personalised plan. Your GP can help you decide which strategies to prioritise and refer you to ADHD-experienced psychologists where helpful.

ADHD Treatment

A personalised approach
to managing ADHD

01

Medication management

Medication options carefully titrated to your profile, age, and medical history.

First line
02

Behavioural therapy

CBT and coaching to build lasting skills in organisation, focus, and emotional regulation.

Recommended
03

Lifestyle & routine

Sleep, exercise, nutrition, and structured daily habits that reinforce symptom control long-term.

Ongoing
04

Ongoing monitoring

Regular follow-ups to review progress, adjust treatment, and keep care aligned with your evolving needs.

Continuous

Monitoring & Follow-Up Care

ADHD treatment is safest and most effective when it is reviewed regularly. Follow-ups help track whether treatment is improving daily functioning, not just symptom scores.
What This Means For You
Patient Expectations

At your first appointment, we focus on understanding your story and goals: current symptoms, when they started, work or study functioning, medical history, sleep, mental health, and any previous assessments or treatments.

If ADHD is diagnosed (or strongly suspected), we discuss a clear treatment plan and follow-up schedule. If medication is appropriate, we explain expected benefits, potential side effects, and how titration works.

If you have a complex history, we will discuss shared-care options to support best-practice management.

Important information: This page is general information and does not replace an individual medical assessment. Diagnosis and treatment are personalised. Not everyone is suitable for medication, and outcomes vary. If you are in crisis or at immediate risk of harm, call 000 or present to your nearest emergency department.

Ready to Get the Clarity You Deserve?

Book a consultation with our experienced ADHD clinic team in Kangaroo Point, Brisbane.