ADHD Testing
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Testing in Lake Mary, FL
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, often referred to simply as ADHD,
is one of the most commonly occurring neurodevelopmental disorders in young people, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
A review of more than 150 ADHD studies conducted through the University of Sao Paulo Medical School Research Support Center on Neurodevelopment and Mental Health determined that the prevalence rate for ADHD in children is approximately 5-7%.
While this disorder is very common, stigma and misconceptions related to an ADHD diagnosis leave many parents wondering whether or not their child will actually benefit from receiving attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder testing. If your child has demonstrated common symptoms associated with ADHD, assessment can actually help you to better understand your child’s strengths and vulnerabilities in order to provide them with the necessary support. This will help to ensure success and improvement in school, social interactions, and at home. This page will explain some of the basics of ADHD testing, and you can learn more by contacting our Lake Mary, FL psychological assessment practice.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a chronic neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by age-inappropriate behavior in two domains of neuropsychological development, hyperactivity-impulsivity and/or inattention, that create impairment in functioning. It’s important to note that ADHD can look different in different children. Children can have predominantly hyperactive-impulsive symptoms, predominantly inattentive symptoms, or a combined presentation (symptoms of both hyperactivity-impulsivity and inattention). Some of the common symptoms of ADHD include:
Symptoms of Hyperactivity-Impulsivity
- Excessive fidgeting
- Talking excessively
- Interrupting others
- Difficulty waiting for a turn
- Running about when it is not appropriate
- Difficulties with emotional self-regulation
- Impulsive decision making
Symptoms of Inattention
- Difficulty sustaining attention
- Being easily distracted
- Having difficulty organizing tasks
- Often loses things necessary for tasks or activities
How is ADHD diagnosed?
ADHD is diagnosed through a comprehensive psychological evaluation to determine if your child meets the diagnostic criteria for ADHD as listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5).
How is ADHD diagnosed?
ADHD is diagnosed through a Comprehensive Psychological Evaluation to determine if your child meets the diagnostic criteria for ADHD as listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5).
What is included in a Comprehensive ADHD Evaluation?
When you schedule a comprehensive ADHD evaluation with our Lake Mary assessment psychologist, you can expect the following:
- Diagnostic Interview with the parent to assess the child’s current symptoms as well as medical, academic, social, family, psychological, and developmental history.
- A brief interview with the child to assess for current symptoms, mood, social functioning, and interests.
- Review of records, including medical, psychological, and academic information.
- Completion of rating scales and questionnaires by parents, teachers (with parental consent), and sometimes the child/adolescent. These rating scales and questionnaires assess your child’s behaviors, emotions, and executive functioning.
- Psychological testing that may include intelligence, academic achievement, and measures of sustained attention and distractibility/impulsivity
Reach Out To Us
A Healthy Mind is Key to a Healthy Life
If you’re ready to schedule your child’s ADHD testing in Lake Mary, FL, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Dr. Emily Johnson to get started with comprehensive psychological assessment services.
Dr. Johnson will be happy to answer your questions and help you to schedule an assessment session.