ADHD- Comprehensive Pediatric Assessments & Evaluations - Portland Oregon


What is ADHD?

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by significant difficulty paying attention and/or hyperactive/impulsive behaviors that impair functioning across multiple settings. Children with ADHD may present with problems with focus and concentration, difficulty with organization and completion of tasks, emotional dysregulation, and problems with academics. The diagnosis of ADHD is rarely given until a child is around 5 or 6 years of age, as these symptoms are a normal part of development in young children. There are three types of ADHD:

  • Predominately inattentive presentation is characterized by difficulty paying attention, focusing, and listening to instructions.

  • Hyperactive/impulsive presentation is characterized by overactivity, interrupting, blurting out, and difficulty staying seated.

  • Combined presentation is characterized by significant symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity.

 

How do you complete an assessment for ADHD?

Best practice in evaluating children with ADHD involves completing a comprehensive evaluation. ADHD can be difficult to diagnose for several reasons. First, symptoms of overactivity and inattention are common, especially in young children. Second, there are no direct tests that can diagnose ADHD, and children act differently depending on the person and setting. Third, ADHD commonly occurs in the presence of learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, and other emotional disorders (e.g., anxiety and depression), and it is important to rule out the presence of other factors that could be contributing to difficulties paying attention. For these reasons, at Honeycomb Psychology, an evaluation for ADHD might include the following components:

  • A diagnostic interview with the parent or caregiver that includes developmental history and current concerns

  • Intelligence/cognitive testing

  • Testing of attention and executive functioning

  • Social, emotional, and behavioral questionnaires completed by parents/caregivers and teachers

  • A comprehensive written report with results; summary; DSM-V or medical diagnoses; recommendations for eligibility for school services (IEP or 504 eligibility); recommendations for parents including the services in the community

  • A meeting with families to review the results, and recommendations, and develop a plan for treatment and prioritizing services

 

What should I do if I think my child has ADHD?

Please Contact us to determine if an evaluation is needed.