ADHD Assessments

Ever Wonder Why Receiving an Assessment is Important?

Yes, receiving an assessment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is time intensive and financially costly, both of which might deter you from seeking one. Not moving forward with an assessment, though, especially if some of the statements below sound familiar, comes with other costs.

Undiagnosed ADHD can lead to long-term consequences, including life-long struggles with self-esteem and shame, the sense that there is something “wrong” with the person, academic frustrations and the belief that one is lazy or not smart, poor occupational performance (e.g., tardiness, missed deadlines, etc.), financial struggles (e.g., overdraft fees, late fees, missed payments, etc.), difficulty and conflict in relationships, and increased risk of substance use, accidents, and high-risk behaviors. These experiences can then lead to long-term and severe depression and/or anxiety.

When an assessment results in a diagnosis of ADHD (or other mental health concern), it is often a validating experience. A diagnosis helps one understand and see themselves and their past struggles in a new way, allows for a better understanding of one’s strengths, and contributes to improved treatment. Making changes that address the root cause of struggles can reduce conflict with loved ones and improve one’s ability to manage day-to-day responsibilities which can improve performance at school, work, and home. A formal diagnosis can also lead to accommodations at school or work, which can lead to improved performance in those areas, as well as connection with ADHD communities for added support.

It is important to note that for those receiving a diagnosis at a later age, the diagnosis can come with anger and grief. Anger about how long they have struggled unnecessarily and grief over missed opportunities because of undiagnosed ADHD symptoms. The earlier one is diagnosed, the fewer long-term consequences they are likely to experience, particularly if appropriate supports are put in place.

CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS

(Ages 10-18)

Have you ever wondered if your child might have ADHD? Or has a teacher, coach, or someone your child spends much time with ever suggested this?

Have you ever asked yourself what ADHD might look like in your child? A common sign of ADHD is struggles with those skills we use in day-to-day life to accomplish tasks and get through the day, also known as executive functions.

While it may be easier to identify those signs that we often think of as "problematic," it is important to recognize that ADHD also comes with positive traits.

Do the following sound familiar when you think about your child?

Does your child struggle with staying on top of homework and chores? Or seem to work harder or longer just to get okay grades?
Procrastinate until the last minute? And maybe still forget to turn in an assignment?
Does your child do better with routine? Or become overwhelmed with emotion when things don't go as planned?
Does your child have difficulty with social conversations? Talks nonstop or interrupts others? Has difficulty taking turns?
Is your child able to hyperfocus on certain things but be easily distracted with others?
Is your child “spacey,” a daydreamer, or someone who “zones out”?
Does your child have much energy and finds it helpful to engage in physical activities?
Would you describe your child’s personal space as messy or cluttered? Maybe your child’s closet is the floor?
Is your child imaginative or creative? Thinks outside the box? Has a unique perspective on situations? Is an innovative problem-solver?
Does your child have a hard time managing emotions or give up easily when faced with a difficult task?
Are your child’s feelings easily hurt? Is your child sensitive to rejection (perceived or actual)?
Do you find yourself having to repeat things for your child to do something, only for your child to forget a part of the task?
Is your child impulsive in their actions and/or words?
Is your child driven to succeed in things that are particularly interesting?

If these sound familiar, your child might be struggling with executive dysfunction. While this is a hallmark of ADHD, such difficulties could also be related to other concerns, such as anxiety, depression, or a history of trauma.

ADULTS

Do you struggle to stay organized? Or have a hard time completing tasks within set deadlines? Do you experience conflict in your relationships because of difficulty with managing your time? Have you ever wondered if you might have ADHD? Or has someone who spends time with you ever suggested this?

Even though ADHD is often thought of as something that only affects children and that they eventually “grow out of it,” this is not the case. While symptoms must have existed since childhood, many people continue to struggle with symptoms of ADHD into adulthood. Moreover, many adults, particularly women, are unaware that ADHD may be contributing to their struggles with “adulting.”

Do the following sound like you?

Do you procrastinate or have a hard time getting started on a task?
Once you’ve started something, do you have trouble completing a task?
Do you seem to work longer and harder than others, yet still have difficulty keeping up with them?
Are you a perfectionist?
Are you a creative problem-solver? Do you think “outside the box”?
Are you easily side-tracked by a new thought or task?
Do you do better with routine? And become overwhelmed when things do not go as planned?
Do you regularly run late for meetings/get-togethers?
Do you lose track of time because you’ve become too focused on what you are doing?
Do your relationships struggle because of your forgetfulness or losing track of time? Have you been told you don’t listen?
Do you feel misunderstood by others?
Have you experienced financial difficulties, such as missing or late payments?
Would others describe your personal space as messy or cluttered? Maybe your closet is the floor?
Do you feel an internal need to move or are constantly fidgety? Do you feel better after engaging in physical activities?
Do you experience intense emotions? Have you been diagnosed with depression or anxiety?
Is it emotionally difficult to hear criticism?
Do you find yourself wanting to give up when something is too difficult?
Do you over-prepare to compensate for your struggles?
Do hormonal fluctuations exacerbate your struggles?
Do you find yourself being more driven when something is of high interest to you?

If these sound familiar, you might be struggling with executive dysfunction. While this is a hallmark symptom of ADHD, these could also be related to other concerns, such as anxiety, depression, or a history of trauma.

ASSESSMENT PROCESS

Since many things can mimic or contribute to the symptoms of ADHD, it is important to me to conduct thorough assessments from a holistic perspective. Taking these various factors into account allows me to arrive at an accurate diagnosis (when one is appropriate), which is crucial for receiving the right support. I use the information I gather throughout the assessment process to help you better understand yourself and your experiences, highlight your strengths, and make recommendations to address areas of vulnerability.

I conduct assessments remotely through Zoom over the course of multiple meetings and gather data from a number of sources in different ways (e.g., clinical interviews, observations, rating scales, and assessment measures). I use the data gathered to arrive at a diagnosis (when appropriate), to identify your strengths and vulnerabilities, and to make recommendations, when necessary.

Children & Adolescents

When assessing children and adolescents, I meet with both you and your child to gather information through clinical interviews and include additional data gathered from you and a teacher/coach through rating scales and from your child during assessment sessions and possibly rating scales.

Adults

When assessing adults, I typically meet with you and possibly a significant other and/or family member to gather information during clinical interviews. I also include data gathered from you during assessment sessions and from self-ratings, as well as information gathered from family members, friends, and/or a significant other through the use of rating forms.

Comprehensive Assessment

The comprehensive assessment allows you to learn if you or your child is struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, and/or some other mental health concern. It also helps us understand your or your child's social strengths and vulnerabilities. When necessary, you will receive recommendations or referrals to assist you and/or your child in learning to manage vulnerabilities and make the most of strengths.

Exploratory Phone Call

ADHD Assessment Rates

I am aware that considering the possibility that your child or you has ADHD (and/or something else) can be difficult and the assessment process can be daunting or feel overwhelming. For that reason, I offer a free, 15-minute exploratory phone call in which we can discuss your concerns and my assessment process in an effort to help us determine if I might be a good fit for you and your family during this journey. If you are interested in learning more, please feel free to reach out to me.

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