We use a series of tests for this assessment. The primary interview we use for this assessment is the MIGDAS-2

What is the MIGDAS-2?

The Monteiro Interview Guidelines for Diagnosing the Autism Spectrum, Second Edition (MIGDAS-2) is a sensory-based process for gathering and organising the qualitative information needed to diagnose autism in children, adolescents, and adults. The process includes guidelines for gathering information from parents/caregivers and teachers, and for conducting a sensory-based interview with the individual being evaluated. The end result is a comprehensive behavioural profile that describes the individual’s distinct way of relating to the world, supplementing assessment scores and informing diagnosis and treatment planning.

The MIGDAS-2 diagnostic interview process invites individuals to share their worldview through the entry point of preferred topics and sensory materials. The entry point is paired with reducing the social communication and task demands. As a result, the assessment process is designed to be a positive experience for the individual. An individual’s strengths are highlighted as part of the assessment process and form an important part of the overall understanding of the individual’s brain style. Each individual’s strengths and differences emerge during the assessment process, these skills and strengths can then be used to build a successful life.

What is the difference between the MIGDAS and the ADOS?

Both are standardised methods for assessing diagnosing Autism, with slightly different approaches. The ADOS-2 provides the structured, examiner driven social communication measure, while the MIGDAS-2 is a sensory-based interview and provides a more individualised assessment process.

We use a series of tests for this assessment. The primary interview we use for this assessment is the DIVA.

DIVA-5 stands for Diagnostic Interview for ADHD in Adults. It is a structured diagnostic ADHD assessment designed specifically for evaluating ADHD in adults. Developed by experts in the field, including researchers and clinicians, this tool is tailored to address the unique challenges and manifestations of ADHD in adults. 

According to the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5th Edition), diagnosing ADHD in adults involves determining the presence of ADHD in both childhood and adulthood. To evaluate the individual’s experiences against each of the 18 symptom criteria for ADHD in childhood and adulthood, the DIVA-5 interview provides a list of concrete and realistic examples of current and retrospective behaviour.

The DIVA-5 asks only about the core symptoms of ADHD required to make the DSM-5 diagnosis. It does not ask about other comorbid conditions that may be present alongside ADHD. This highlights the importance of conducting a full, general psychiatric assessment, as it is thought that over half of those with ADHD also have comorbid conditions.