What is ADHD?
ADHD is a complex condition and requires a comprehensive evaluation to be diagnosed. Its presentation can start in childhood and can continue into adulthood. Individuals who have ADHD can find it difficult to direct their attention, self-regulate behavioural impulses and emotional reactions, as well as control their physical activity. A person may procrastinate, seem forgetful, and/or appear distracted, unfocused, restless, or disorganized. Successful treatment occurs with a clear understanding of the person’s challenges and an individually tailored, multi-faceted approach to their experience.
What is an ADHD Assessement?
An ADHD assessment is a comprehensive evaluation to determine whether someone meets the criteria for Attention Deficit with Hyperactivity Disorder. It’s a thoughtful, multi-step process that looks at behaviour, history, as well as functioning across different settings and areas of life.
What does an ADHD assessment involve?
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Clinical Interviews: The registered psychologist will ask about your developmental history, current symptoms, and how they affect your daily life.
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Behavioural Questionnaires: The client (and likely family members, teachers or supervisors) fill out standardized forms that measure attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity.
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Cognitive Testing: Some assessments include tests of memory, attention span, executive functioning, and processing speed.
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Co-morbidities investigated: Other conditions will be checked out like anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, and learning disabilities, to see if there are multiple challenge areas affecting the client.
What should I expect from a requested add-on ADHD assessment?
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An additional informed consent form for the ADHD assessment will be included in the initial virtual or phone meeting with the client. Signed consents from all parties is required before the assessment can begin. ​​
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Relevant educational, medical and treatment records are provided to the registered psychologist before the assessment starts.
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A detailed interview with the client and the parent helps collect historical and current information about the client.
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Questionnaires for diagnostic purposes will need to be filled out. The client or parent/legal guardian/caregiver is responsible for requesting questionnaires to be completed by a professional in a different setting, such as a school or at a work place.
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Two in-person testing sessions completed at the office.
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A virtual feedback meeting will take place to discuss the assessment information gathered, potential next steps, and suggested referrals.
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A written report will be completed that integrates and scores all available data, explains the results, and offers tailored recommendations.