Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a medical condition that causes behavioral changes, mainly affecting a person’s ability to pay attention to. Adults or children who have ADHD find it difficult to sit still for long periods and have trouble controlling their impulses.
The estimated number of children ever diagnosed with ADHD, according to a national 2016 parent survey,1 is 6.1 million (9.4%), and ADHD symptoms can begin occurring in children as young as three years old. While not easy to diagnose, our counselors at Mansfield Counseling have the education and experience to test thoroughly and determine whether you or children have ADHD or another mental health disorder or diagnosis.
ADHD Testing; What does it look like?
ADHD is a neurological condition and requires mental health testing to be diagnosed. ADHD testing is a complex process, and we will take several steps to arrive at an accurate diagnosis. Mansfield Counseling uses tests that are researched, in-depth, and validated by both QEEG and fMRI.
Testing starts with an intake appointment with a therapist. This part of the assessment can last for 45 to 60 minutes or longer—the more thorough, the better. We will ask a series of questions to determine any challenges and stressors/triggers that you are facing. This first appointment will help our counselors to determine which additional testing will be needed to help rule out other diagnoses that may be causing symptoms.
After the first visit, we will use different tests to reach a diagnosis. The most effective ADHD test battery will determine whether a person has ADHD or identify any other mental health issues that cause similar symptoms, such as autism, anxiety, depression, or other learning disabilities. Evaluations can last for several hours and occasionally may be done over multiple appointments. Once evaluations are complete, an in-depth report is created and reviewed with you.
There are three main types of ADHD. The symptoms manifest differently in everyone affected by the disorder. That is why getting tested by an experienced specialist is crucial to getting the correct diagnosis and treatment.
Our comprehensive assessments will:
- Determine the type of the individual’s ADHD (specific problems and history of the issues)
- Identify other mental health distresses that may be existing
- Determine the impact of ADHD symptoms on school, work, home, relationships, self-esteem, etc.
- Collect information from numerous sources, such as family, teachers, friends, and co-workers
Call us at 214-952-2324 to discuss your specific needs, and we can craft a plan to answer your questions.