ADHD/ADD Assessment
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The most comprehensive way to assess and diagnose ADD/ADHD in children and adults is through a clinical interview with the individual and relevant family members or partners. Unfortunately, some clinicians unfamiliar with ADD/ADHD may either over-diagnose or under-diagnose this often-misunderstood condition. Neither brain scans nor questionnaires alone can provide an accurate diagnosis. In some cases, a neuropsychological or psychoeducational assessment may be conducted to better understand an individual’s strengths and challenges. This type of assessment is also required for those seeking educational accommodations. To ensure our clients receive the most efficient and economical evaluation, we offer four different types of assessments tailored to their specific needs:
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Clinical InterviewAt the Bay Area Center for ADD/ADHD, you can meet with a clinician for a clinical interview to determine whether you may have ADD/ADHD. This assessment typically takes one to three sessions and involves a clinician-led interview—conducted one-on-one for adults or with both the child and parent for pediatric evaluations. You will also complete questionnaires about current and childhood symptoms, and we will review relevant records. Additionally, we may consult with a family member, such as a parent of an adult client or the parents of a child client. Through this process, we gain a clear understanding of whether ADD/ADHD is present and develop the most effective treatment plan for you. |
Comprehensive Assessment/Psychoeducational EvaluationA comprehensive assessment is a more in-depth process that provides a detailed profile of an individual’s strengths and challenges, while also identifying any additional difficulties such as learning or cognitive disabilities. This type of evaluation may be necessary to document learning differences for obtaining accommodations in educational settings (elementary school, middle school, high school, college, and graduate programs) and on standardized tests and licensing exams such as the SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT, MCAT, LSAT, and Bar Exam. On average, a comprehensive assessment involves 6–8 hours of testing, followed by 6–8 hours of data analysis and report writing. However, the total time may vary depending on the individual’s specific needs. |
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Documentation AssessmentFor many children and adults with ADD/ADHD, up-to-date documentation of how their cognition is affected by the condition may be required to receive accommodations. If a child or adult has a clear history of ADD/ADHD diagnosis and treatment, or a past comprehensive assessment, we can offer a more streamlined, abbreviated assessment and report that meets the documentation requirements for accommodations in the most efficient and economical way. For more information about testing for accommodations on exams such as the SAT, LSAT, GRE, Bar Exam, MCAT, and others, please click here. |
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Medication Evaluation
If you are interested in a medication-only approach to treating ADHD/ADD (without coaching or therapy at this time), we offer two options. One option is to have a psychiatrist evaluate you directly to determine if you have ADHD/ADD and whether medication would be an appropriate treatment.
Another option is if a psychiatrist, general practitioner, or other healthcare professional has requested an evaluation before deciding to prescribe medication. In this case, our clinicians can assess for ADHD/ADD and provide a comprehensive evaluation that you can share with your health professional to obtain medication for ADHD/ADD symptoms. |
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Our clinicians are specialists in ADD/ADHD, so they will not only help you understand whether it is ADD/ADHD that you are dealing with, but help discuss your treatment options, and overcome the difficulties you're dealing with to reach your full potential.
To schedule a free phone consultation or to set up an appointment with us, call (415) 547-0241 or click the button below.
BAY AREA CENTER FOR ADD/ADHD
Providing Trusted, Compassionate, Effective Therapy
Providing Trusted, Compassionate, Effective Therapy
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San Francisco • Marin • East Bay • Peninsula • South Bay • Anywhere in California via Zoom
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email
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Phone
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(415) 547-0241
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