ADHD Testing and Assessments In Calgary

ADHD is a disorder and associated challenges that many adults face, which is why undergoing an ADHD assessment can be beneficial. An ADHD assessment typically involves psychological testing as well as psychosocial interviews and evaluations from mental health professionals. The goal of the assessment is to identify potential ADHD symptoms and other co-occurring disorders. During the ADHD assessment, a mental health provider will consider biological factors, psychological factors, family history, medical history, functional impairments, and other relevant areas in order to properly diagnose ADHD in adults or rule out any co-occurring disorders. This information will then be used to create personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual needs.

You should bring any relevant medical records or any previous psychoeducational assessment reports. If you have any report cards from when you were a child available please bring those. Please ensure you take any required medication and that you have slept well and ate breakfast. Please dress comfortably as there will be extended times of sitting. If your appointment is booked for a half day, bring snacks and water. If your appointment is booked for a full day we will break for lunch (12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.). There is a waiting area that has a microwave, coffee and water available or lunch options are available within walking distance.

It depends on the individual and what needs to be assessed, but typically it can take anywhere between 2 and 6 hours. Depending on the presenting symptoms it may be necessary to do more testing to rule out co-morbidities. This includes the actual testing sessions with lots of time for breaks. The length of time can vary depending on the person. We always try our best to ensure our client’s comfort by providing breaks when necessary. When we assess children, we will have movement breaks but will also have some board games for them to play. If your child has a book, or favourite toy to engage with during breaks please feel free to bring it.

Time to report the assessment report can vary based on what is being assessed, the number of files that are required to review and the number of interviews required (how many teachers, doctors, co-workers, spouse etc.) we may need to contact. While we aim to have the quickest turnaround, we strive to have your report and feedback available no later than four weeks after testing has been completed. If a report is needed for an application with a deadline, please let us know so that we can accommodate it.

This depends on the reason for the assessment, but typically you would provide them to your physician. Reports can also be provided to your employer if you are seeking accommodations for work. Please let us know if you have questions about this and we can address them in your feedback meeting.

The first step to getting tested for ADHD is booking a consultation with our assessment psychologist. Here, you can learn about the assessment process, cost, insurance coverage,  time commitment etc. This consultation will give you the opportunity to ask any questions to see if the ADHD Assessment is something you would like to move forward with.

A family doctor or pediatrician might be able to diagnose ADHD, but it depends on their training and experience. Your doctor can also rule out other medical conditions that may cause similar symptoms. They may also ask if anyone else in your family has been diagnosed with ADHD, as it tends to run in families. Your doctor will also ask about any mental health issues and whether you have ever been prescribed medication for anxiety or depression, as these conditions can sometimes cause similar symptoms.If you have any doubts about whether or not they are qualified, talk with your primary care provider about finding someone else who specializes in working with people who have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Some people with ADHD may be eligible for disability benefits through the government, but this is not always the case. A mental health professional can help you determine whether or not your condition qualifies as a disability and what type of benefits may be available to you.