Symptoms of ADHD/ADD often overlap with other mental and physical conditions, which can make them difficult for individuals and families to identify. Also ADHD can present differently in girls and boys and children versus adults. Therefore a comprehensive assessment is important in identifying the presence of ADHD.
Common Signs, Symptoms and Behaviors of ADHD may include:
*Constant disorganization, poor time management, and failure to plan ahead
*Frequent forgetfulness, often losing things
*Failure to give close attention to details or careless mistakes in schoolwork, at work or during other activities
*Continual problems starting or finishing projects or tasks
*Impulsive decision making, and saying things without thinking
*Ongoing problems concentrating and paying attention
*Daydreaming or often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly
*Extreme restlessness or fidgetiness
*Poor anger control
*Difficulty keeping jobs
The staff at Ramous Psychology & Associates use many tools to assist in the effective evaluation of ADHD/ADD in children, adolescents and adults. Children and adults who struggle with attention deficit require proper diagnosis so that an effective plan of action can be put into place. Although symptoms of ADHD and ADD prove challenging, developing the skills and structure to achieve one’s potential is not an impossible task.
In order to properly diagnose ADHD and any learning strengths and weaknesses, our certified school psychologist or clinical psychologist will conduct a comprehensive ADHD assessment. We will look at concentration and attention abilities and struggles and also look at learning strengths and weaknesses.
A thorough ADHD assessment includes:
*Structured, clinical interview
*academic/achievement testing
*behavioral checklists
*psychological testing
*when appropriate, observation
*processing
*motor functioning
*executive functioning
*learning abilities
*observing sustained attention and focus
*testing the ability to shift attention
*testing level of alertness
These evaluations are conducted for children, adolescents, college students and adults and our assessments are tailored to our client’s needs in order to understand the underlying issues. Following the evaluation, a detailed and comprehensive written report and recommendations are provided along with a feedback session to review the results and recommendations.