All neuropsychological testing and evaluations are done in person at our Penfield office. The reminder message may say all visits will be done by telehealth but this does not apply to testing.
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting about 11 percent of school-age children. Symptoms may persist into adulthood in many cases. It is important to note that ADHD is the same as “ADD”. The name of the disorder (ADD) was changed to “Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD),” in 1994 and regardless of whether the individual has symptoms of hyperactivity or not they can be diagnosed with ADHD[2]. ADHD is characterized by developmentally inappropriate levels of inattention, impulsivity and/or hyperactivity[1]). Individuals with ADHD can be very successful in life. However, without identification and proper treatment, ADHD may have serious consequences, including school failure, family stress and disruption, depression, problems with relationships, substance abuse, delinquency, accidental injuries and job failure[2].
Our ADHD program is an integrative approach to assessment and treatment for both children and adults with suspected attention disorders. The program is co-chaired by two clinical neuropsychologists, Dr. Krista Damann and Dr. Tanya Grace who have expertise in cognitive and behavioral disorders. Our neuropsychologists provide cutting edge assessment of ADHD and recommend appropriate treatment paradigms (behavioral therapy and/or medication management) which is available via our psychiatric providers and mental health therapists. This model is the first comprehensive program of its kind in the Rochester area.
ADHD can be diagnosed in some patients without formal cognitive and/or behavioral assessment, often by pediatricians (or primary care providers) and/or psychiatrists; however, many patients will benefit from a thorough evaluation to ensure that other factors that can mimic attention disorders are ruled out. In addition, our ADHD assessments allow for assessment of common co-morbid conditions that may complicate traditional treatments/and or require a different approach.
Here are some common scenarios where ADHD testing can be helpful:
In Children:
- Parents often want to be sure about a diagnosis prior to consideration of medication treatments for their children.
- To help identify the etiology of attention problems (e.g., ADHD vs. Anxiety).
- Assessment of severity to determine if medication treatment is recommended or if behavioral treatment will suffice.
- To provide evidence for school programming and educational plans.
In Adults:
- To provide diagnostic clarity to patients with long-standing histories of subjective attention problems.
- To re-assess whether young adults with documented histories of ADHD should continue to receive medication.
- To provide evidence for work accommodations.
- To provide evidence for school programming and educational plans.
References
- American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth edition: DSM-5. Washington: American Psychiatric Association, 2013
- 2017 by Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD)