Leading ADHD Psychiatrist Services in Newcastle

Expert ADHD psychiatrist in Newcastle offering diagnosis and treatment at EDUCARE Charlestown

Are you or your child struggling with persistent challenges related to focus, impulsivity, or hyperactivity in Newcastle? Navigating the complexities of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can be frustrating and impact daily life, school, work, and relationships. EDUCARE’s specialist ADHD psychiatrists in Newcastle provide comprehensive ADHD assessments, accurate medical diagnosis, and evidence-based treatment plans, including expert medication management, for children, adolescents, and adults.

At our Charlestown clinic, we offer the clarity and support you need to manage ADHD effectively and improve quality of life. A GP referral is required to see one of our psychiatrists.

Understanding ADHD: More Than Just Inattention

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by persistent patterns of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interfere with functioning or development. It’s not a matter of willpower or intelligence, but rather how the brain develops and functions.

Common ADHD Symptoms Our Newcastle Psychiatrists Assess For:

The presentation of ADHD can vary significantly between individuals and across different age groups.

ADHD in Children & Adolescents:

Our child and adolescent psychiatrists in Newcastle look for symptoms such as:

Inattention Psychologists

Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork.
Often has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities.
Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly.
Often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork or chores.
Often has difficulty organizing tasks and activities.
Often avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort.
Often loses things necessary for tasks or activities (e.g., school materials, pencils, books).
Is often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli.
Is often forgetful in daily activities.

Hyperactivity & Impulsivity

Often fidgets with or taps hands or feet, or squirms in seat.
Often leaves seat in situations when remaining seated is expected.
Often runs about or climbs in situations where it is inappropriate.
Often unable to play or engage in leisure activities quietly.
Is often "on the go," acting as if "driven by a motor."
Often talks excessively.
Often blurts out an answer before a question has been completed.
Often has difficulty waiting their turn.
Often interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g., butts into conversations, games, or activities).

ADHD in Adults:

While some symptoms may lessen or change with age, many adults continue to experience significant challenges. Our Newcastle adult ADHD psychiatrists can assess for:

Difficulty with time management and organization.
Procrastination and trouble starting or finishing tasks.
Restlessness and difficulty relaxing.
Impulsive decision-making (e.g., spending, career choices).
Relationship difficulties.
Emotional dysregulation and mood swings.
Chronic forgetfulness and losing things.
Poor listening skills or frequently interrupting others.

It’s important to note that not everyone with ADHD will experience all these symptoms, and the intensity can vary.

The Role of an ADHD Psychiatrist in Newcastle at EDUCARE

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who have specialized in mental health. They are uniquely qualified to:

1. Conduct Comprehensive ADHD Assessments

This involves a detailed clinical interview, reviewing developmental history, gathering information from various sources (e.g., parents, teachers, partners – with consent), and using standardized rating scales.

2. Provide an Accurate Medical Diagnosis

Differentiating ADHD from other conditions that may present with similar symptoms (e.g., anxiety, depression, learning disorders) is crucial.

3. Provide an Accurate Medical Diagnosis

Develop Evidence-Based Treatment Plans

4. Prescribe and Manage Medication

ADHD psychiatrists are experts in psychopharmacology and can determine if medication is an appropriate part of the treatment plan, discuss options, monitor effectiveness, and manage any side effects. This is a key differentiator from other mental health professionals.

5. Collaborate with Other Professionals

Our Newcastle ADHD psychiatrists often work as part of a multidisciplinary team, liaising with our psychologists, occupational therapists, or speech pathologists if a holistic approach is beneficial for the client.

What to Expect from an ADHD Assessment with Our Newcastle Psychiatrists:

Stage	Description
Initial Consultation	Detailed discussion about concerns, symptoms, developmental history, family history, and previous assessments or treatments. Review of GP referral.
Information Gathering	May involve questionnaires for the individual, parents (for children/teens), and sometimes teachers or partners (with consent).
Clinical Interview	In-depth exploration of symptoms, their impact on daily functioning, and ruling out other potential causes.
Diagnostic Formulation	The psychiatrist will synthesize all information to determine if the criteria for ADHD are met and discuss the diagnosis with you.
Treatment Planning	Collaborative development of a treatment plan, which may include medication, recommendations for therapy (e.g., with a psychologist), lifestyle adjustments, and strategies.
Follow-Up	Regular appointments to monitor treatment effectiveness, adjust medication if necessary, and provide ongoing support.

This process may span several appointments.

Treatment Options for ADHD in Newcastle

Effective ADHD management often involves a multimodal approach:

Medication

Stimulant and non-stimulant medications can be highly effective in managing core ADHD symptoms. Our Newcastle ADHD psychiatrists will discuss the benefits, risks, and what to expect.

Therapy & Behavioural Interventions

Psychologists at EDUCARE can provide Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), parent training, and strategies for organization, time management, and emotional regulation.

Educational/Occupational Support

Accommodations and strategies at school or work.

Lifestyle Adjustments

Including diet, exercise, and sleep hygiene.

While our psychiatrists focus on assessment, diagnosis, and medication management, they will often recommend and refer for these adjunctive therapies, sometimes within EDUCARE’s multidisciplinary team.

Why Choose EDUCARE for ADHD Psychiatry Services in Newcastle?

Specialist Expertise

Our psychiatrists have specific experience and training in diagnosing and treating ADHD across the lifespan.

Comprehensive Approach

We look at the whole person and consider co-occurring conditions.

Medication Management Excellence

Our ADHD psychiatrists in Newcastle are skilled in the nuanced use of ADHD medications.

Collaborative Care

Opportunity to work with our in-house psychologists and therapists for a complete support system.

Established & Trusted

EDUCARE has been a cornerstone of specialist services in Newcastle and the Hunter Region since 1999.

NDIS Support

We are an NDIS registered provider and can assist with NDIS plans.

Book an Appointment with an ADHD Psychiatrist in Newcastle

If you suspect ADHD in yourself or your child, taking the step to get a professional assessment can provide answers and pathways to effective support.

A referral from your General Practitioner (GP) is essential to book an appointment with one of our ADHD psychiatrists in Newcastle. Please discuss your concerns with your GP and request a referral to an EDUCARE psychiatrist.

REQUEST A CONSULTATION

Speak to your GP for a referral or use your NDIS to book an appointment with a specialist from our team.