ACEv.2 Overview

The ADHD Child Evaluation, second version, [ACEv.2] is a semi-structured clinical diagnostic interview that aims to support healthcare practitioners in the assessment and diagnosis of ADHD in children and young people (age 5-16 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 recognized expert and author of ACEv.2 and ACE+v.2 (the latter for young people and adults). ACEv.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.

ACEv.2 Training Description

Applying DSM-5 or ICD-11 diagnostic criteria, the ACEv.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 in childhood across settings and the extent to which they reduce the quality of the child’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 child 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 8 sections and you should allow 4-5 hours to complete the course.

ACE Learning Objectives

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

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

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

Dr CO, Clinical Psychologist, UK

"A succinct and useful training course for professionals working with childhood ADHD assessment. It was particularly useful to be able to observe the ACE interview being completed, with additional tips and rationale provided to support the use of the measure. I look forward to completing further training with you in the future."