Difficulty with attention, impulsivity, or hyperactivity may signal ADHD, and a professional evaluation is the first step in gaining clarity and accessing the proper support. Understanding this process can help you feel prepared as you move toward greater focus and well-being. At Advanced Neurobehavioral Health in San Diego, California, we explain what to expect during an ADHD assessment for both adults and children.
What Is ADHD?
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects both children and adults. It involves patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity that interfere with daily life. Common symptoms include:
Inattention – Difficulty focusing or forgetfulness
Hyperactivity – Restlessness, trouble sitting still, excessive talking
Impulsivity – Interrupting, acting without thinking, impatience
Some individuals experience all symptom types, while others may have just one or two. Symptoms often begin in childhood and can persist into adulthood, impacting organization, time management, and concentration.
The ADHD Assessment Process
An ADHD assessment is a structured evaluation typically conducted by a psychologist, psychiatrist, or other qualified clinician. The process varies slightly depending on age, but usually includes the following components to understand the scope and impact of symptoms:
Clinical Interview
The provider conducts a detailed interview to discuss developmental history, daily functioning, family background, and current concerns.
Questionnaires and Rating Scales
These may be completed by the individual, parents, teachers, or partners to gather insight into how symptoms appear across settings, such as home, school, and work.
Behavioral Observations
The clinician may observe behavior during the interview or testing sessions, particularly with children.
Cognitive or Neuropsychological Testing
Additional assessments can measure attention, memory, and executive functioning, or rule out other conditions such as learning disabilities or anxiety disorders.
Collateral Information
For children, input from teachers is often requested. For adults, past academic or work performance can offer important clues.
After the Assessment
Once the assessment is complete, the clinician will review the findings and determine whether the individual meets criteria for an ADHD diagnosis based on guidelines from the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders). If ADHD is diagnosed, next steps may include the following:
Behavioral therapy or parent coaching
School accommodations (such as 504 plans or IEPs)
ADHD coaching or executive functioning support
Stimulant or non-stimulant medications may be considered, especially if symptoms are significantly impacting functioning.
Providing ADHD Assessments for Children and Adults
Whether you’re a parent trying to understand your child’s needs or an adult seeking answers, a comprehensive evaluation can provide direction. The clinicians at Advanced Neurobehavioral Health in San Diego, CA, have specialty training in neuropsychology and offer ADHD assessments for both children and adults. Please reach out to schedule an appointment.