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How do you test for both dyslexia and ADHD together? 

When someone shows signs of both conditions, testing dyslexia ADHD together can provide a clearer understanding of their learning and attention profile. This approach ensures that each condition is accurately identified and treated, avoiding confusion between symptoms. Comorbid ADHD dyslexia testing is important because the two conditions often overlap, but require different types of support. 

Dyslexia testing focuses on reading, spelling, and phonological processing, while ADHD assessment examines attention, impulse control, and executive function. A thorough ADHD dyslexia joint assessment combines these methods, allowing specialists to see how difficulties in one area might affect the other. 

What a Combined Assessment Involves 

Professionals use a mix of standardised tests, questionnaires, and interviews to gain a full picture of strengths and weaknesses. This integrated approach makes testing both ADHD dyslexia more effective and ensures interventions are tailored to the individual. In most cases, testing dyslexia ADHD together is carried out by a multidisciplinary team that may include educational psychologists, clinical psychologists, and specialist teachers. 

Key Steps in a Joint Assessment 

Here’s what the process might include: 

Background history and interviews  

Gathers information from the individual, parents, or teachers about learning and behaviour patterns. 

Cognitive and academic testing  

Measures reading skills, working memory, attention, and processing speed. 

Behavioural rating scales  

Identifies ADHD-related behaviours across different settings. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and detailed assessments that address both attention and reading challenges. 

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Learning disabilities (e.g., dyslexia). 

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Author

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.