Expert Psychological Evaluations for ADHD in Northern California
At Bridges of the Mind Psychological Services, our team specializes in comprehensive ADHD testing and psychological evaluations for children, teens, and adults throughout Sacramento, San Jose, and South Lake Tahoe. Our in-person assessments provide accurate diagnosis and effective treatment recommendations for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
Understanding ADHD and When to Seek Testing
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition affecting approximately 8-10% of children and 4-5% of adults. It impacts focus, organization, impulse control, and executive functioning—mental skills essential for planning, attention, following instructions, and multitasking.
Many individuals with ADHD remain undiagnosed for years, attributing their challenges to personal failings rather than a treatable condition. Our psychological evaluations help determine eligibility for accommodations and appropriate treatment options.
Signs That May Warrant an ADHD Test in Children:
- Academic performance below potential despite adequate intelligence
- Consistent disorganization and forgetfulness with school assignments
- Teacher concerns about inattention, hyperactivity, or incomplete work
- Difficulty following multi-step instructions
- Social challenges and emotional reactivity
Signs That May Warrant an ADHD Test in Teens:
- Academic underachievement despite intelligence
- Significant time management struggles with school assignments
- Chronic forgetfulness and missed deadlines
- Executive functioning difficulties affecting academic performance
- Sleep difficulties and racing thoughts
Signs That May Warrant Testing for Adult ADHD:
- Workplace challenges with organization, deadlines, and follow-through
- Financial management difficulties
- Pattern of relationship issues related to forgetfulness or inattention
- Career inconsistency relative to abilities
- Exhaustion from compensatory coping mechanisms
Our Comprehensive ADHD Assessment Process
At Bridges of the Mind, we employ a multi-faceted assessment approach that goes beyond simple symptom checklists. Our psychological evaluations typically include:
Thorough Clinical Interview
We begin with a comprehensive interview exploring developmental history, current concerns, and functional impact. For children and teens, this includes separate interviews with parents and the young person.
Standardized Rating Scales
We utilize scientifically validated questionnaires completed by multiple observers (parents, teachers, significant others, self-report) to gather data about behavioral patterns across different settings.
Cognitive and Neuropsychological Testing
General intellectual functioning, executive functioning skills, sustained attention abilities, and processing speed and efficiency are all measured in our assessments.
Academic Achievement Testing
For students, we include measures of academic achievement to identify any learning disabilities that may co-occur with or mimic ADHD symptoms.
Differential Diagnosis Considerations
Our clinicians carefully consider other potential explanations for attention difficulties, including anxiety, depression, learning disabilities, and sleep disorders.
Comprehensive Feedback and Reporting
Each assessment concludes with a detailed feedback session and written report documenting findings, diagnosis, and specific recommendations for home, school or workplace accommodations, and treatment planning.
Age-Specific ADHD Assessment Approaches
Children (Ages 6-12)
Our child ADHD assessments are engaging and developmentally appropriate, creating a supportive environment that allows their true capabilities to shine. The evaluation includes:
- Parent and teacher input
- Age-appropriate cognitive and attention testing
- Observation during assessment
- Screening for co-occurring conditions
- School accommodation recommendations
Teens (Ages 13-17)
For adolescents, our assessments acknowledge their growing independence while gathering crucial input from multiple sources. The evaluation includes:
- Separate teen and parent interviews
- Input from multiple teachers across subjects
- Age-appropriate executive functioning measures
- Academic skills assessment
- Collaborative strategy development
Adults
Our adult ADHD assessments are thorough yet efficient, respecting busy schedules while providing comprehensive evaluation. The process includes:
- Detailed history of lifelong attention-related challenges
- Educational, occupational, and relationship pattern analysis
- Self-report measures and cognitive testing
- Identification of developed strengths and coping strategies
Do you or your child often find yourselves in a whirlwind of disorganization, distraction, or impulsivity?
ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, could be a contributing factor. Recognizing the need for an ADHD evaluation is the first step towards understanding and managing these challenges effectively.
Consider an ADHD evaluation if you observe:
- Consistent difficulties in academic performance, not aligned with the individual's capabilities.
- Notices from educators about potential attention or hyperactivity issues.
- A pattern of job difficulties, including frequent job changes or struggles in maintaining focus and organization.
- Easily upset by minor issues, with a tendency towards forgetfulness.
- Ongoing concerns about failing to meet goals, primarily due to focus challenges.
- Struggles with regular daily tasks, financial management, or keeping organized.
- Persistent feelings of frustration, guilt, or blame that seem disproportionate to the situation.
What Sets Our ADHD Testing Services Apart
Evidence-Based Methodology
Our assessment protocols are grounded in current research and best practices, regularly updated to incorporate advances in understanding ADHD across the lifespan.
Comprehensive Approach
We examine the full range of cognitive, academic, and psychological factors that may contribute to attention difficulties.
Strengths-Based Perspective
Our assessments identify not only challenges but also areas of strength that can be leveraged in treatment planning.
Culturally Responsive Testing
Our team is trained in culturally responsive assessment practices, recognizing how cultural factors influence symptom manifestation and interpretation.
Collaborative Process
We view assessment as a partnership between clients, families (when appropriate), and our clinicians, with ample opportunity for questions throughout.
How Bridges of the Mind Can Help
Comprehensive Approach
A thorough evaluation to understand the nuances of how ADHD affects you or your child.
Tailored Support
Developing personalized strategies that work with the unique challenges and strengths of the individual.
Empowerment through Knowledge
We believe in empowering our clients with understanding, which can lead to greater self-acceptance and effective management of ADHD.
After the Assessment: Treatment Options and Next Steps
Following a comprehensive ADHD evaluation, our team provides clear guidance on next steps:
Therapy Recommendations
Based on assessment findings, we may recommend:
- Individual therapy focused on executive functioning and emotional regulation
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy for coping strategies
- Family therapy approaches for improved home functioning
- Parent coaching for families of children with ADHD
Educational Support Planning
- For students, we provide specific recommendations for school accommodations
- We develop individualized learning strategies
- All recommendations are tailored to each student’s unique profile
- We collaborate with schools to implement effective educational support plans
Medication Considerations
While our practice does not provide medication management directly, we can offer education about:
- When consultation with a doctor about medication might be appropriate
- Types of medications commonly used for ADHD
- How to monitor medication effectiveness
- Referrals to qualified providers for medication consultation
Community Resources
We connect clients with valuable support resources:
- Support groups for adults with ADHD
- Parent support networks
- Educational workshops and programs
- Social skills development opportunities
Begin Your ADHD Assessment Journey
If you’re considering an ADHD evaluation for yourself or a family member, we invite you to reach out to our team. We serve clients throughout Northern California with in-person appointments available in Sacramento, San Jose, and South Lake Tahoe.
Contact our office today to schedule an initial consultation about our psychological evaluation services and how our team can support your path to greater understanding and success.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How long does ADHD testing take?
A thorough evaluation typically requires 6-8 hours spread across multiple sessions. This ensures comprehensive data collection for accurate diagnosis.
Is ADHD testing covered by insurance?
While we do not take insurance, many insurance plans provide coverage for psychological evaluations. Our administrative team can help you understand coverage options and any out-of-pocket costs.
What forms need to be completed?
Our office provides all necessary intake forms, history questionnaires, and symptom rating scales prior to your appointment.
At what age can ADHD be diagnosed?
While symptoms often emerge in early childhood, reliable diagnosis typically begins around age 6. However, assessments can be conducted for persons of any age from school-age children through adulthood.
How often should ADHD be reassessed?
For children, reassessment is beneficial at key developmental transitions or if new concerns emerge. For adults, reassessment is typically unnecessary unless significant functional changes occur.