What Does an ADHD Assessment Entail?
ADHD testing involves more than completing a single questionnaire. We gather information from several sources to develop a detailed understanding of attention, behavior, executive functioning, and emotional health.
An assessment can include:
A clinical interview
A review of developmental, medical, educational, and mental health history
Standardized ADHD rating scales
Measures of attention and executive functioning
Cognitive or academic testing when appropriate
Behavioral and emotional assessments
Feedback from parents, partners, teachers, or other relevant individuals
This process helps us determine whether symptoms are consistent with ADHD and how they affect daily life.
What Tests and Rating Scales Are Used?
The specific measures used during ADHD assessments for adults, ADHD assessments for teens, and ADHD assessments for children vary based on the referral questions and the client’s age. Testing can include standardized questionnaires that assess:
Inattention
Hyperactivity
Impulsivity
Organization
Working memory
Emotional functioning
The tests used will depend on your age, concerns, and the areas where you need more clarity. Before the evaluation begins, we will explain which tests are recommended and what you can expect.
How Long Does ADHD Testing Take?
The full process generally includes an initial interview, one or more testing appointments, scoring and interpretation, and a feedback session. The timeline can vary depending on the complexity of the evaluation, the number of measures needed, and how quickly outside records or questionnaires are returned. During your consultation, we'll explain the anticipated schedule and what to expect from start to finish.
Is Input Gathered From Teachers?
For children and teens, we may request feedback from teachers, school counselors, or other school professionals with parent or guardian permission. Because ADHD symptoms should be considered across different settings, school input can provide important information about attention, behavior, academic performance, and peer relationships.
How Is ADHD Differentiated From Other Conditions?
A comprehensive evaluation considers other possible explanations for ADHD-like symptoms. We assess for concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, sleep difficulties, learning disabilities, and emotional or behavioral conditions. Reviewing multiple areas of functioning helps us provide a more accurate diagnosis and recommendations.
Schedule an ADHD Assessment in Denver, CO
Contact our office to learn more about ADHD testing and assessments in Denver, CO, and schedule an initial consultation for yourself, your teen, or your child.