ADHD assessments – kids & teens
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition that impacts around 5-9% of children in Canada. If you suspect your child has ADHD, a comprehensive assessment can assist both you and your child’s teacher(s) in providing the right support.
At Bhatia Psychology Group, we are here to support you through every stage. Our comprehensive ADHD assessment provides a profound insight into your child’s challenges and identifies potential school accommodations, ensuring they can reach their full potential. This process can help to pave the way for a brighter and better future.
What is an ADHD assessment?
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) spill over into every area of a child’s life; it can impact their ability to make or keep friends, how they interact with their family, their self-esteem, and their capability to look after their own personal safety. However, with the right support and treatment plan, people with ADHD can thrive and live happy, fulfilling lives.
An ADHD assessment evaluates many skills, including attention, self-regulation, concentration, impulse control, and organization. Subtypes of ADHD include Primarily Hyperactive and Impulsive ADHD, Primarily Inattentive ADHD (ADD), or Combined Type ADHD. Knowing the subtype is helpful for a treatment plan and support strategy that will work best.
It’s recommended when:
- They are easily distracted
- Has problems concentrating or focusing
- Behavioural or conduct difficulties
- Partake in destructive behaviours
- Regularly acts impulsively
- Trouble staying on task
(specifically those that need sustained mental effort)
How it works
Determining an ADHD diagnosis involves criteria that examine all the above. It also includes differentiating between the three different types when a diagnosis is made. Overall, ADHD testing includes the following steps:
Intake
This first step involves discussions to gather necessary background information. Typically, this includes collecting information regarding your developmental history, work/academic performance, and behavioural observations.
Assessment
Assessment involves a diagnostic interview. It further includes various tests to evaluate:
- Cognitive abilities
- Work/Academic skills
- Memory
- Attention
- Executive functioning
These assessments help to rule out other conditions, as well as identify specific challenges related to your ADHD (if a diagnosis is made).
Treatment
There are many treatment options to help you manage your ADHD symptoms. Based on the results of your assessment, we provide a detailed report with personalized recommendations. This may include behavioural strategies, lifestyle adjustments, and potential treatment options such as therapy or medication.
Types of youth ADHD
There are three major types of ADHD, each with varying dominant symptoms. These include:
Inattentive Type ADHD
Inattentive ADHD is characterized primarily by difficulties maintaining attention and organization. It’s often associated with trouble following through on tasks. With this type, children or teens may daydream frequently and become easily distracted.
Hyperactive-impulsive ADHD
The subtype is often marked by excessive physical activity, impulsive behavior, and impulse control. Children and teens with this subtype often struggle with restlessness, impulsivity, and may find it challenging to wait their turn or think before acting.
Combined ADHD
This encompasses symptoms of both inattentive and hyperactivity-impulsive ADHD. It is the most common form of ADHD diagnosed in children and teens. They may exhibit challenges in sustaining attention, impulsivity, hyperactivity, and difficulties with organization and focus.
Frequently asked questions
ADHD assessment
Why is it important to get an ADHD evaluation for my child?
An ADHD evaluation gives your child a proper diagnosis (or rules one out). This can help your child thrive via individual-specific educational and home support, improving their quality of life and learning skills. It can also provide information regarding your child’s strengths and help their self-esteem.
What is typically included in the ADHD Assessment?
We include the same as our standard psychologist assessment, plus the following. However, since every child is unique, the details are to be confirmed during the initial appointment.
– Additional screening measures
– Direct assessment of focus and attention
– More extensive background history
– Additional scoring and reporting
How should I prepare my child for the assessment?
Your child’s specific psychologist typically provides the necessary information for your appointment. This usually means copies of report cards, questionnaires, or forms.
Will my child's school be informed of the assessment results?
This is only done if you have given explicit written or verbal consent for the release of the information.