- Initial Call
- Confirm and Prepare
- Complete Forms
When to Consider ADHD Testing for Children and Teens
Does your child struggle with school or tasks at home? Do they have trouble focusing, controlling emotions, or seem unusually restless? These behaviors could suggest underlying challenges, especially if they impact their ability to keep up with peers. Sometimes, these issues become more noticeable as demands increase in high school or college.
While these signs can suggest looking into ADHD, they alone don’t confirm it. Many children experience similar challenges without having ADHD. Other factors like depression, anxiety, social issues, or family situations could also play a role.
Our comprehensive ADHD testing for children and teens can help identify the root cause of your child’s struggles, whether or not ADHD is involved. We’ll work with you to build a strong foundation of support so your child can thrive and reach their full potential.
What are the benefits of ADHD Testing?
ADHD testing for children and teens can provide a clarity regarding the nature of their struggles. A diagnosis (if indicated) can help clarify and guide treatment options, and offer strategies for managing their symptoms effectively. For some people, receiving a diagnosis can be life-changing, while for others, it helps to validate what they often suspected.
Why Bedrock Psychology Group?
Dr. Paul Losoff is acutely tuned into the struggles of kids and teens with ADHD. He brings over 15 years of experience administering psychological evaluations, honed across diverse settings including Northwestern Memorial Hospital’s Emergency Department, Hartgrove Hospital, and private practice. He has also shared his knowledge by teaching assessment courses at Adler University and serving as Director of Training and Diagnostics at a local practice.
Our Process
What to Expect Before
- Initial Call: We’ll discuss your child’s needs and reasons for seeking evaluation. We’ll explain our process and answer your questions. If we both agree it’s a good fit, we’ll schedule your appointment(s).
- Confirm & Prepare: Your appointments are confirmed once you register on our patient portal. We’ll ask you to send relevant documents (previous assessments, school/medical records) for our review.
- Complete Forms: We’ll email you questionnaires and rating scales. If helpful, we can send them to your child’s teachers, counselors, or doctors (with your consent). Please complete these before your first appointment for a more productive discussion.
What to Expect During
- Parent Meeting: We’ll start with a one-hour meeting (online or in-person) with just you, the parents. This allows us understand your child’s background and concerns.
- In-Person with Your Child: Next, we’ll meet your child in person. We’ll spend time getting to know them and then use various tests and activities. This usually takes 2-4 hours.
- Follow-ups (if needed): Depending on what we learn, we may or may not need another appointment. We’ll keep you updated throughout the process.
What happens After your sessions:
- Feedback meeting: Within a few weeks, we’ll meet to discuss the results with you and your child (if appropriate). We’ll provide treatment recommendations and next steps.
- Report Delivery: You’ll receive the written report shortly after your feedback session.
- Resources: Additionally, we will supply you with a range of resources to assist you in overcoming any obstacles you encounter, regardless of whether your child is diagnosed with ADHD.
FAQs
How much does ADHD testing cost?
To give you a general idea, our ADHD evaluations typically range from $1,500 to $2,500. However, after our initial consultation call, we can provide a more accurate estimate based on your specific needs. This ensures transparency and avoids any surprises.
While we are out-of-network with insurance companies, we can provide a superbill for you to submit which may be used to recoup a portion of the costs through your out-of-network benefits.
To reserve your testing sessions, as they involve dedicated time, a deposit of $500 is kindly requested.
What questions are asked on an ADHD test?
To get the best picture of what your child is experiencing, we’ll start by having open conversations with both you and your child. We’ll ask questions about the specific concerns you have and how those behaviors are affecting your child’s daily life. To gain the most helpful insights, we’ll also ask about your child’s medical history, school experiences, social life, and family background. Your honesty and openness will help us create the most accurate assessment possible, leading to the best support for your child.
Do you do ADHD Testing Online?
To streamline the process, some parts of your ADHD assessment, like parent meetings or questionnaires, can be completed online. However, for the most comprehensive evaluation, in-person sessions are essential. Face-to-face interactions allow us to connect with you on a deeper level, leading to a more personalized and accurate understanding of your needs.
How Long Does ADHD Testing take?
The duration of ADHD testing can vary depending on the complexity of an individual’s symptoms and the assessment tools used. Usually, the total time spent in meetings with the clinician will be around 3-4 hours. The entire process from our first meeting to the delivery of the report can range from 2-4 weeks.
What test do you use for ADHD?
There is no one single test for ADHD. This is where our years of experience distinguishes us. Our comprehensive ADHD assessments will integrate a wide range of data from interviews, rating scales, cognitive tests, medical records, and academic records.
How should we prepare for ADHD testing?
First, please let us know if your child is taking any medication. For your child’s in-person meeting, we suggest that they receive a good night’s rest and a decent breakfast so that they have optimal energy to work with us.
How do I explain all of this to my child?
It’s important to have an open and honest conversation with your child about the evaluation process. You can explain that they will be meeting with a psychologist who will ask them questions and have them complete some activities and tests. Make it clear that this isn’t a “pass or fail” situation, but rather a way for the psychologist to better understand how their brain works and identify their unique strengths and challenges. Reassure them that the evaluation is nothing to feel anxious or worried about. Let them know you’ll be there to support them every step of the way throughout the process.