If you suspect that a loved one may be suffering from ADHD or if you suspect this to be your diagnosis, it is important to obtain an assessment to see if this is actually the case. And there are many professionals that offer ADHD assessments so you can go through some of the points in the article below to help make a decision.
You need to select a qualified and licensed provider to diagnose ADHD and treat it.
You can choose psychiatrists for this as they have the training to diagnose and treat mental health conditions which include ADHD. They will also be able to prescribe medication if that is required for your situation. Then there are clinical psychologists who will conduct assessments and are able to provide therapy for this disorder. They will not prescribe medication, however. You can search Enriching Minds Psychology ADHD assessment to learn more about this. You can also go to a primary healthcare doctor such as a family physician or a paediatrician. They may refer you to a specialist so that you can have a comprehensive evaluation. Neuropsychologists can also conduct this assessment. Other options are licenced professional counsellors and licensed clinical social workers. While they may not be able to diagnose the disorder, they will offer referrals for assessments and provide supportive counselling.
It is important to consider the experience the professional has with regard to ADHD.
It is best to look for a professional who specialises in this so they are able to recognise the more subtle symptoms that are associated with this disorder. They will also have a better idea of conditions that can co-occur with ADHD and all of this allows them to arrive at a more accurate diagnosis. You can ask what their experience is like dealing with ADHD assessments and their experience when working with individuals of varying ages who have the disorder. You can also check whether you know any friends or family members who have received an ADHD assessment. You can ask them for a recommendation and ask them about what the process was like for them.
You can also check online reviews
For ADHD assessment providers and see if you can find any support groups that can offer recommendations. It is important to select a provider that follows a comprehensive diagnostic process. There are guidelines that are established that help healthcare providers in creating a thorough ADHD assessment. And the assessment has to be multifaceted including clinical interviews, standard questionnaires, standard rating scales, observation and psychological testing in some cases. You can also ask the provider about the treatment options available. It is important that a personalised treatment plan is created so that your needs or your loved one’s needs will be met. Some of the treatment methods you will come across will be medication, educational support, therapy and behavioural interventions. You can ask about their approach to ADHD treatment and whether they are willing to collaborate with other professionals like occupational therapists and educators to create a comprehensive treatment plan.
