Diagnosing ADHD in adults using the ACE+v.2 clinical interview

ACE+v.2 Overview

 ACE+v.2 is a semi-structured clinical diagnostic interview that aims to support healthcare practitioners in the assessment and diagnosis of ADHD in young people and adults (>17 years). It is recognised by leading authorities in the field and used extensively in the NHS and private sector. The course is led by Professor Susan Young, an internationally recognised expert and author of ACE+v.2 and ACEv.2 (the latter for children and young people). ACE+v.2 has been certified by The CPD Certification Service as conforming to Continuing Professional Development principles. It is suitable for all healthcare professionals qualified to undertake clinical diagnostic assessments. Allied professionals, trainees, assistants and students who wish to learn more about assessment techniques and how to apply these using ACEv.2 are also welcome.

ACE+v.2 Training Description

Applying DSM-5 or ICD-11 diagnostic criteria, the ACE+v.2 training provides a comprehensive and systematic approach to guide healthcare practitioners to obtain and consider all the information necessary when assessing and diagnosing ADHD. This includes a background section and relevant client history, an assessment of the core symptoms of ADHD across the life span, across settings and the extent to which they reduce the quality of the person’s functioning. Additionally, it prompts the assessor to consider the presence of alternative and/or co-existing conditions. Based on the information obtained, there follows an algorithm to determine the likelihood that the person meets diagnostic criteria. The training adopts a practical approach whereby you will observe Professor Young conducting an assessment while you simultaneously complete the interview yourself. The training is split across 12 sections and you should allow 4-5 hours to complete the course.

ACE+v.2 Learning Objectives

To develop knowledge and skills in the assessment of ADHD in children when using the ACE+v.2 semi-structured interview 

To develop a level of competence in assessing ADHD symptoms and associated impairments when applying the ACE+v.2 clinical interview

To develop a level of competence in applying formal clinical criteria to determine diagnosis. 

Sophie

"I really enjoyed the training. I particularly liked how the ACE+ guides a more qualitative approach to assessment, rather than a tick box approach. Suzy's expertise in the female presentation of ADHD was highly relevant and an added bonus to the training. I would recommend this course".