ADHD
You are more than
just a diagnosis!
ADHD is not what you see on Tik Tok!
What is ADHD?
ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurodevelopmental disorder that can significantly impact an individual's daily functioning. It can cause impairment in numerous settings including school, work, and social settings. In adults, it can often lead to struggles with social interaction and romantic relationships.
ADHD is not just a matter of being tired, overworked, or not being focused. It at its core impacts the way an individual’s brain functions, processes information, and how an individual interacts with their environment.
ADHD is not a matter of not trying hard enough!
Characteristics of ADHD
It's important to note that the manifestation of these characteristics can vary widely among individuals with ADHD. Additionally, the presentation of ADHD can change over time, with some symptoms becoming less prominent as a person matures, while others may persist into adulthood.
Inattention: Sustaining attention, making mistakes, difficulty organizing, forgetfulness, and being easily distracted.
Hyperactivity: Fidgeting, restlessness, difficulty engaging in activities quietly.
Impulsivity: Interrupting others, and having difficulty waiting, or acting without thinking things through.
Executive Dysfunction: Planning, organization, time management, and working memory.
Emotional Dysregulation: Intense emotions and have difficulties regulating their emotional responses.
Treatment
Medication alone is often not enough.
Optional treatment will often include multiple interventions such as a well-balanced diet, exercise, behavioral therapy, educational support, ADHD coaching, and when appropriate medication. The goal is to help individuals with ADHD manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
“I truly understand the challenges of living with ADHD. I strive to help every client find the best treatment option for them. I work to help each client understand their diagnosis and the benefits and limitations of medication.”
Harmony, Rich, MSN, PMHNP-BC
ADHD Evaluation & Treatment
All patients with a history of diagnosis and treatment are required to have prior records sent to us.
If you have not been formally diagnosed you will need an evaluation.
Patients wishing to incorporate telehealth appointments must purchase a blood pressure cuff, and monitor blood pressure at each telehealth visit.
Depending on your age and medical History, you may be required to have medical clearance and an EKG, before initiating treatment.
Patients on controlled medication may be subject to random urine drug screenings.
Diagnostic Evaluation
For individuals over 18 years old
ADHD evaluation and Diagnosis require multiple appointments before treatment.
Step 1 is an intake session, you will be sent home with self-assessments to complete.
Step 2- 1 Hr diagnostic assessment focusing on ADHD.
Step 3- Follow up to discuss findings, and diagnosis, and formulate a treatment plan.
Currently, the in-person evaluation requirement is waived.
QB Test
This test is Optional in most cases.
QB Test is a form of a continuous performance test.
If you need special accomodations for College this form of testing is recommended.
We offer this testing as a courtesy and alternative to Neuropsychological testing.
If you have not been formally diagnosed through Neuropsychological testing, we offer the QB test as part of the diagnosis process.
QB Test is more cost-effective than a neuropsychological evaluation yet provides unbiased and objective data.
Neuropsychological evaluations can cost between $2000-$3000 and may have long wait times for evaluation.
Testing is often not covered by insurance.
We offer this testing at an out-of-pocket cost of $200.
Payment is required at the time of service if you decide to proceed.
Myths
People with ADHD are just lazy and are not trying hard enough.
It’s not a matter of effort or lack of desire to focus.
Individuals are often trying their best.
There are structural and functional differences in the brains of individuals with ADHD.
You can’t have ADHD if you did well in school or graduated college.
ADHD does not affect intelligence.
Many people may have to work harder but ultimately can do well in school.
Many people learn coping strategies to help with learning and school performance.
You have to be hyperactive.
ADHD has multiple presentations, and not all individuals experience hyperactivity.
ADHD is uncommon in women.
ADHD indeed has higher rates of diagnosis in male children.
This may be due to gender differences in presentation and ADHD being underdiagnosed in females.
ADHD is a childhood disorder.
ADHD is a developmental disorder with onset before age 12.
While symptoms begin in childhood many individuals continue to have significant symptoms throughout their life.