ADHD Evaluations in
Children & Adolescents

ADHD is a behavioral condition that requires consideration of the whole child, including aspects of functioning at home, school, and social settings. The ADHD testing that we do contributes to that but is not the only variable that is considered. It’s important for the child to be able to engage in testing, and we want to get a sense of what their current daily functioning is. Meds would not mask or hide ADHD in our evaluation process because we take a comprehensive approach.

Should my child take their medication that morning?

Yes, we recommend your child take their medications as usual on the morning of their evaluation.

A formal ADHD diagnosis provides several important benefits:

• Understanding the root cause: You’ll gain clarity about the specific underlying mechanics of your child’s attention, focus, and behavioral challenges and how ADHD affects their learning and daily functioning. A diagnosis helps demystify ADHD-related struggles and reduce frustration.
• Accessing school accommodations: A formal diagnosis may qualify your child for educational supports, accommodations, and services through Section 504 or Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
• Starting targeted intervention: With a clear diagnosis, you can begin ADHD interventions tailored to your child’s needs, including therapy, coaching, tutoring, medication management, or other evidence-based treatments recommended by your neuropsychologist.

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition caused by differences in the development of specific brain networks responsible for executive functioning, attention regulation, and impulse control. Neuroimaging studies reveal differences in brain structure, connectivity, and neurotransmitter activity—particularly involving dopamine and norepinephrine pathways. ADHD is a complex condition, and the specific brain differences and their impact can vary significantly from person to person. ADHD can also present differently in women and girls, which has led to historical underdiagnosis in these populations (learn more about ADHD in girls).

Many individuals with ADHD also experience periods of intense focus on preferred activities, a phenomenon sometimes referred to as “hyperfocus.” While this intense concentration can be a strength, it may also present challenges if it leads to neglecting other responsibilities. Individuals with ADHD may also demonstrate creative problem-solving abilities, high energy that can be channeled productively, and what some describe as unique strengths that emerge from these same brain differences (read our “ADHD Superpowers” for more on strengths).

ADHD often runs in families and frequently co-occurs with other conditions, including learning differences (e.g., dyslexia), anxiety, or depression. Understanding these brain-based differences and the varied ways they can manifest helps families and educators provide appropriate support and recognize individual strengths.

To ensure we can provide thorough evaluations, we have chosen to be an out-of-network provider and do not accept insurance. Unfortunately, insurance companies impose strict limitations on how much time can be allocated to different parts of an evaluation. For complete details about potential reimbursement opportunities, please visit our Fees & Payments web page.