ADHD Evaluations

Assessing for ADHD requires a comprehensive evaluation process that includes looking at family history and assessing symptom patterns across one's life span. On average, two to three clinical hours and various assessment instruments will be used to determine a diagnosis, formulate recommendations, and create a treatment plan. The assessment includes ADHD inventory checklists and a computerized performance test for auditory and visual attention. Other diagnostic tools help identify and address any coexisting conditions such as anxiety, mood, personality or dissociative disorders, which can mimic ADHD. A thorough report which includes an analysis of all instruments used, conclusions drawn, and recommendations offered is available as part of the evaluation process.

ADHD Education & Support Groups

General Adult - Members receive a comprehensive workbook of educational materials covering ADHD and how it impacts one's life. The material is presented in a small group setting over a thirteen-week time period. Examples of topics discussed include relationship challenges, relaxation/focus techniques, workplace issues, time management, organization, and social skills. Members set weekly goals and learn practical tools and strategies for better life management. Although the group addresses the common challenges associated with ADHD, the group's philosophy rests upon teaching individuals to understand and thrive within attention differences. There is great potential for tapping into the creative and energetic components of ADHD. We have found this group to be the most efficient and effective way for one to begin the treatment of ADHD.

College Students - This is a 10-session education, strategy, and support group for college students with ADHD. The group is designed to teach systems and strategies that will improve one's chances for success at college, by addressing the role that ADHD plays in a student's college lifestyle. Group members can range from high school seniors to anyone who is currently in or planning to get back into college. The group is small enough that each person will have a chance to participate and receive individualized attention. The course material covers such topics as better organization; beating procrastination; managing finances; nutrition; time management; and survival strategies for boring classes, getting out of bed, remembering things and cramming.

College Accommodations

We offer full ADHD evaluations that will assist students in accessing disability accommodations at their college. Our in-house evaluations consist of taking a thorough family and life history directly with the client and administering various assessment instruments. If additional psychological testing is required, we coordinate outside cognitive and IQ testing that will be incorporated into our comprehensive report.

Section 504 Planning

Section 504 is a federal law which mandates equal and fair education to all children. Many children with ADHD or diagnosed learning disabilities need avocation and help developing specific strategies to succeed academically. We offer consultations to assist in understanding and articulating the accommodations that an individual child may need academically. Consultations may involve meeting with parents at our office or attendance at a 504 meeting at the child's school. Accountability of the school, parents, professionals and the child in a way that empowers the child to learn about their own learning challenges is a pivotal focus in this type of planning. The approach is theoretically based in neurodevelopmental theory. Theory Background