Services
Adult ADHD Evaluations
What does this evaluation involve?
An interview-based evaluation is conducted to assess for symptoms of ADHD, as well as other mental health conditions that co-occur with ADHD or ‘look like’ ADHD. Additionally, various screeners will be used to support diagnostic interpretations.
How does this evaluation differ from others?
This is an interview-based evaluation, which differs from performance-based evaluations. I will not ask you to complete any tasks or activities (like the Continuous Performance Test) where you are to ‘perform.’ Rather, I will ask about your personal experiences and draw conclusions based on self-reported symptoms. This evaluation does not constitute a full neuropsychological evaluation.
What is the process?
After an evaluation has been scheduled, we will meet for 1.5 - 2 hours for the interview. I provide a written report that is sent electronically and password protected. The report is typically generated within 2-3 weeks after the evaluation date. You are free to share the evaluation with whomever you wish.
How will this help me?
A diagnostic evaluation to assess for ADHD is useful in identifying whether an individual meets criteria for ADHD, and therefore, informs treatment. The written report will include recommendations that can be provided to other clinicians and professionals that are involved with your health care.
What if I do not meet criteria for ADHD?
Diagnoses and recommendations are based on information gathered from the interview and screeners. If an ADHD diagnosis is not given, I will provide recommendations based on alleviating the symptoms (whether they are part of a formal diagnosis or not). The evaluation is intended to assess for ADHD specifically, therefore, other diagnoses may not be entirely within the scope of this evaluation. It is possible to get other/additional diagnoses from this evaluation (e.g., Generalized anxiety disorder, depression, PTSD).
How much does this evaluation cost?
The adult ADHD evaluation package is $650 and includes the interview and written report with recommendations. Accepted payments include cash, check, Venmo, credit card, or HSA. A ‘superbill’ can be provided to you to submit for reimbursement from insurance if your insurance plan covers ‘out-of-network’ providers.
ADHD is a neurodevelopment disorder that is diagnosed based on the characteristic symptoms of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity with an onset before 12 years of age. Despite their average or above average intelligence, these children typically test lower on IQ tests and exhibit academic difficulties and social challenges. It is not uncommon for children with ADHD to have co-diagnoses (specific learning disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, anxiety and depression). Over time, gross motor activity tends to decline. In adults, hyperactivity takes the form of fidgetiness, restlessness, excessive talking, and feelings of overwhelm. Impulsivity manifests as irritability, impatience, reckless behaviors (e.g., reckless driving, impulsive sexual relations), and poor management of time and/or money. Adults with ADHD may experience self-esteem issues, problems related to social relationships, poorer health outcomes, difficulties with educational and occupational achievement, and are at an increased risk for bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, antisocial behavior, and substance use.
When diagnosing individuals with ADHD, clinicians specify ‘subtype’ to better illustrate the symptom profile - inattentive type, hyperactive-impulsive type, or combined type. Overall, ADHD is more prevalent in males; however, this varies by subtype -the combined subtype is more common in males and the inattentive type is more common for females. There is concern that the gender disparity is, in part, due to consistent misdiagnosis of women resulting from differences in symptom presentation that cloud the clinical picture. For instance, women tend to exhibit fewer externalizing symptoms and may present with greater levels of anxiety and depression.
Individuals with ADHD are able to treat their symptoms with medication and/or behavioral treatments. Lifestyle changes (e.g., exercise, proper nutrition and supplementation) can also be beneficial in alleviating the symptoms of ADHD. Adults with ADHD may seek accommodations at work and children benefit greatly from classroom management strategies and an adequate teacher-classroom match.
To schedule an ADHD evaluation, email DoctorJALewis@gmail.com or call (737) 231-1789.