What is ADHD, and what does an ADHD assessment look like?
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurological condition that affects about 5-10% of school-aged children and up to 4% of adults. Children with ADHD often have trouble focusing, may be very active, and can act impulsively, which can make everyday tasks challenging. These symptoms can impact schoolwork and friendships, so getting an accurate diagnosis and the right support can make a big difference.
What is often included in ADHD testing?
Psychological testing is one of the most helpful ways to identify ADHD. This type of evaluation gives a full picture of someone’s attention, behavior, and emotional health. Testing usually includes interviews, checklists for parents and frequently teachers, observations and if needed, special cognitive/intelligence, academic and neuropsychological tests.
Neuropsychological tests are specialized tools designed to assess different cognitive abilities, such as attention, memory, executive functioning, and processing speed. These tests can be especially useful in ADHD evaluations, as they can reveal the underlying brain processes that may contribute to ADHD symptoms. Intelligence testing usually involves standardized assessments that measure different cognitive skills, including verbal comprehension, perceptual reasoning, working memory, and processing speed. These tests offer a detailed view of an individual’s cognitive strengths and weaknesses, helping to identify any specific challenges that might contribute to ADHD symptoms or affect daily functioning. Academic testing (e.g. reading, math, spelling, writing) may help to identify any co-occurring learning disabilities, providing a more comprehensive understanding of the individual's strengths and weaknesses.
How long does an ADHD evaluation take?
At Calibrate, a typical ADHD evaluation consists of an initial diagnostic interview (telehealth, about 1-1.5 hours), in-person testing (if warranted) (2.5-3.5 hours at my Bellevue, WA location), and a feedback session to hear the results and discuss next steps (telehealth, about 1-1.5 hours). This of course can vary depending on each individual.