ADHD Evaluations

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by significant difficulty paying attention and/or hyperactive/impulsive behaviors that impairs functioning across multiple settings. The diagnosis of ADHD is rarely given until a child is around 4 or 5 years of age, as these symptoms are a normal part of development in young children. ADHD is a chronic condition that affects millions of children and often continues into adulthood. An ADHD evaluation should determine whether a person has ADHD and rule out or identify other possible causes.

Assessment and diagnosis of ADHD requires a comprehensive approach. At Spectrum, ADHD testing involves evaluating all areas of you/your child's life to help determine if an attention disorder is significantly impacting daily functioning. An evaluation for ADHD includes several hours of direct testing with the client (depending on age and level of functioning) and may include the following components:

A diagnostic interview with the parent/caregiver that includes developmental history and current concerns
A diagnostic clinical interview with the client
Intelligence testing or cognitive screener
Academic testing in reading, written expression, and mathematics
Testing of attention and executive functioning
Social, emotional, and behavioral questionnaires completed by caregiver, client, spouse, teachers, etc.
Interviews/consultation with teachers and other service providers as needed
School observation (when applicable)
A comprehensive written report
An interactive feedback session with families to review the results & recommendations