Child ADHD, Autism & Dyslexia Assessment & Support NZ
Understanding Your Child's Strengths, Difficulties & Needs
Parents often know that something is difficult for their child long before they know why.
Your child may be struggling with concentration, learning, emotional regulation, behaviour, social situations or school — and you may be wondering whether ADHD, autism, dyslexia or another difference could be contributing.
Counselling & Therapy NZ provides professional assessment and support for children and families, including ADHD, autism and dyslexia-related concerns.
Signs You May Want to Seek Further Support
Parents may notice:
Difficulty concentrating
High distractibility
Impulsivity
Hyperactivity
Difficulty sitting still
Emotional outbursts
Difficulty with transitions
Problems following instructions
Reading or writing difficulties
Falling behind despite effort
Social difficulties
Sensory sensitivities
Strong need for routine
School avoidance
Low confidence
Frustration around learning
Behavioural difficulties
These signs do not automatically mean a child has a particular diagnosis.
Assessment helps build a clearer picture.
ADHD Assessment & Support
ADHD can affect attention, impulse control, organisation, emotional regulation and everyday functioning.
Parents may wonder about ADHD when a child consistently struggles to concentrate, organise themselves, follow instructions or regulate their behaviour across different settings.
Autism Assessment & Support
Autistic children can have very different strengths, experiences and support needs.
Parents may seek assessment or guidance because of concerns involving social communication, routines, sensory experiences, emotional regulation or behaviour.
Dyslexia Assessment & Support
Dyslexia can affect reading, spelling and written language despite a child's effort and abilities in other areas.
Understanding a child's learning profile can help parents and schools consider more appropriate support.
Can ADHD, Autism & Dyslexia Occur Together?
Yes. Neurodevelopmental and learning differences can overlap.
This is one reason a broader understanding of the child's strengths and difficulties can be useful.
Behavioural Support
A child does not necessarily need a diagnosis before parents seek help with behaviour.
Explore Child Behaviour Support NZ for support with emotional outbursts, boundaries, routines and behavioural difficulties.
Child Anxiety
Children who are struggling academically, socially or emotionally can also experience anxiety.
Explore Child Anxiety Counselling NZ.
Support for Parents
Understanding what is happening is only one part of the process.
Parents may also need help working out what to do next.
Our Parenting Support NZ service provides practical support for parents and caregivers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my child has ADHD?
ADHD involves persistent patterns of attention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity difficulties that affect functioning. A professional assessment is needed rather than relying on individual behaviours alone.
What age can a child be assessed for ADHD?
Concerns can be explored during childhood, although the assessment process and interpretation depend on the child's age, development and circumstances.
Can ADHD and dyslexia occur together?
Yes. A child can experience both ADHD and dyslexia.
How do I get my child assessed for autism in NZ?
The appropriate assessment pathway depends on the child's needs and the type of assessment required. Contact us to discuss the services available through CTNZ and whether they are appropriate for your child.
Does my child need a diagnosis to get help?
No. Children and parents can receive counselling and behavioural support without waiting for a formal diagnosis.
Take the Next Step Towards Understanding What's Happening
If you are concerned about your child's attention, learning, behaviour, emotional regulation or development, contact us to discuss an appropriate next step.
Enquire About Child Assessment