Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental issue affecting executive functioning and brain processes such as focus, attention, and impulse control. ADHD is a form of neurodivergence. Neurodivergence or neurodiversity is the understanding that everyone’s brain is wired differently and that natural biological variations exist across people’s brain anatomy and processes. No two brains are exactly alike. Most people will struggle with attention and focus at different times for different reasons, and this is normal. Diagnoses like ADHD and other forms of neurodivergence indicate the level of impairment caused by their neurological wiring. While folks with ADHD commonly experience struggles in their day to day lives, having a neurodivergent brain can also bring various strengths; for example, many folks with ADHD report excelling in areas of creativity or "thinking outside the box."
ADHD can present differently across individuals, with some people struggling more with inattention, hyperactivity, or a combination of both. ADHD is a condition that typically begins in childhood (before the age of 12) and often persists into adulthood. ADHD can present differently in adults and across gender, with men and women often reporting different symptoms and struggles. It is common for symptoms to be confused with, or co-occur with other conditions such as depression, anxiety, or other forms of neurodivergence (e.g., Autism, Sensory Processing Disorder, learning disabilities).
ADHD Assessment can clarify diagnosis, facilitate academic or workplace accommodations, and help healthcare providers tailor effective treatment plans to your unique needs. These evaluations are often required for services like stimulant medication, Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), access to government-funded programs, and/or access to reasonable workplace or academic accommodations.
Here at Grapevine Psychology, testing for ADHD involves a three-part process: The process begins with a Clinical Interview where you’ll be asked about your symptoms and the impact these symptoms have on your daily life, as well as other health and family history. Based on your concerns, the psychologist will select tests to assess your specific concerns and the way your brain functions. After the Clinical Interview, testing sessions will be completed in 1-3 appointments scheduled for 2-hours at a time. After all testing data is collected, the psychologist will integrate the information and write a report of all clinical findings and recommendations. The last step will be a feedback session where the psychologist will review the results of testing, provide treatment recommendations, and guide you on next steps. We also encourage examinees to follow up with therapy services. Several of the therapists at Grapevine Psychology specialize in working with neurodivergent populations and can help you towards your treatment goals.
ADHD testing services are often covered by insurance and our practitioners are in-network with many of the major insurance providers. To learn more or get scheduled for the initial Clinical Interview, send us a message through the contact form.
Diagnostic evaluations assist clients and clinicians to arrive at clearer understanding of your mental and emotional health struggles. Additionally, diagnostic evaluations can help provide a more accurate diagnosis which can inform treatment planning with your mental healthcare team.
If you find that therapy is not helping, or that you’re unsure of your symptoms or needs, a diagnostic evaluation may be the key to understanding more about your mental health and getting the treatment you need.
All diagnostic evaluations begin with a Clinical Interview to explore your past and current symptoms, and health and family history. The psychologist will assess whether testing would benefit you and what diagnoses need to be explored, and testing sessions will be completed in 1-3 appointments scheduled for 2-hours at a time. The evaluation process will conclude with a feedback session to review the results of testing, provide treatment recommendations, and guide you on next steps.
To learn more or get scheduled for the initial Clinical Interview, send us a message through the contact form below. We look forward to speaking with you soon!