ADHD Evaluations
What is ADHD?
ADHD stands for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, but there is so much more to it than just those words! Over the years, we’ve come to understand ADHD as a difference in how the brain manages attention, activity, and self-control—not simply as a problem or a deficit. People with ADHD often have unique strengths, such as creativity, energy, and the ability to think outside the box.
Helping a person understand whether or not they have ADHD is about helping them understand more about how their brain works. Children with ADHD are sometimes encouraged to “just try harder” or “sit still,” but as we listen more to the voices of people with ADHD, it becomes clear that their brains are simply wired differently. Our goal is not to “fix” ADHD, but to learn about each child, appreciate their unique qualities, and find strategies that help them thrive.
When considering an assessment, it’s important to look at every part of a child’s development and daily life. During the evaluation process, we ask about early growth, school experiences, friendships, and how your child manages emotions and routines. ADHD can show up in many different ways, and we want to get a full picture before making any conclusions.
Because ADHD symptoms can emerge early in childhood, it’s helpful to seek evaluation if you notice ongoing difficulties with attention, self-control, or activity level. While these are not the only areas we assess, we often see challenges in focus, organization, impulse control, and emotional regulation in children with ADHD.
What are the symptoms?
The core symptoms of ADHD are differences in attention, activity level, and impulse control. We also frequently see challenges with organization and emotional regulation.
Attention & Focus: Does your child have trouble staying on task, especially with things that aren’t as interesting to them? Do they seem to lose track of what they’re doing or need frequent reminders to finish routines?
Impulsivity: Does your child act before thinking, interrupt others, or have a hard time waiting their turn? Are they sometimes more “on the go” than other children their age?
Hyperactivity: Does your child seem to have extra energy, fidget, or have difficulty sitting still in situations where it’s expected?
Organization: Is your child prone to losing things, forgetting assignments, or struggling to keep their belongings in order?
Emotional Regulation: Are your child’s feelings intense or do they have trouble managing frustration, especially when things don’t go as planned?
How do you evaluate for ADHD?
We know that every child is unique, so our evaluation process is designed to understand your child as a whole person. We start by gathering information from you, your child, and other important people in their life, such as teachers and caregivers. We want to know about your child’s strengths, challenges, and how their attention and activity levels look across different settings.
During the assessment, we use a variety of tools to help us learn more about your child’s attention, impulse control, and executive functioning skills. This may include talking with your child, observing them, and using standardized questionnaires or rating scales. Our goal is to create a comfortable environment where your child feels understood and supported.
The purpose of an ADHD evaluation is not just to give a label, but to help you and your child better understand how their brain works. With this information, we can work together to build on your child’s strengths, find strategies that support their growth, and advocate for their needs at home, at school, and beyond. Learning more about your child is the first step in helping them reach their fullest potential.
We understand that testing for ADHD can feel overwhelming or even a little intimidating. That’s why we take a gentle, supportive approach—meeting your child where they are, listening to your concerns, and making sure everyone feels comfortable throughout the process. Dr. Warning-Probst is experienced in connecting with children and families and is committed to seeing the world from your child’s perspective.
An ADHD diagnosis is not something to be afraid of—it’s a tool for understanding and supporting your child’s unique way of moving through the world. A proper diagnosis can open doors to new resources and opportunities, ensuring your child receives the support they need to thrive. If you think your child may benefit from an evaluation, please reach out today to begin the process.