Understanding ADHD Symptoms & ADHD Testing
At TEMA Therapy, we understand the importance of timely, accurate mental health support, especially when it comes to ADHD and learning disorders. Located in Fort Lee, NJ, we offer tailored psychiatric services designed to meet your unique needs. Whether you or your child are struggling with focus, organization, or behavioral challenges, our team of experienced professionals is here to guide you through every step of the brain health assessment and treatment process.
Common symptoms include:
- Difficulty focusing or staying on task
- Impulsiveness and acting without thinking
- Poor time management and organisation
- Trouble prioritising tasks or completing them
- Struggles with multitasking
- Excessive restlessness or hyperactivity
- Frequent mood swings or irritability
- Low frustration tolerance and short temper
- Financial mismanagement
If these symptoms persist and interfere with school, work, or relationships, an ADHD assessment may be beneficial.
Requesting an ADHD Assessment
If your child isn’t responding to support at home or school, consider requesting an ADHD assessment. Start by speaking with a GP or your school’s SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator) to discuss a referral.
While waiting for an assessment, continue providing support at home and in school. You can also reach out to your local council for guidance—many areas have family hubs that offer support for children and young people aged 0–19 (or up to 25 for those with special educational needs or disabilities).
What to Expect During an ADHD Assessment
An ADHD assessment is conducted by specialists, such as paediatricians or psychiatrists, who will:
- Discuss symptoms and their impact on daily life
- Review developmental history (e.g., milestones like walking or reading)
- Gather insights from parents, teachers, or caregivers
- Use symptom checklists and behaviour rating scales
- Possibly include a computer-based test for further evaluation
If ADHD is diagnosed, the specialist will explain the next steps, including treatment options and support strategies.
ADHD Testing in Children: Early Detection for Better Outcomes
Early identification and intervention for ADHD can significantly enhance a child’s academic success and social development. Our ADHD Testing NJ process is designed to be supportive and stress-free, ensuring children feel comfortable while we evaluate their behavior, gather insights from parents and teachers, and conduct age-appropriate tests.
ADHD assessments are tailored to be engaging and child-friendly, minimizing anxiety. While testing can begin as early as preschool, diagnosing ADHD in young children can be complex due to natural developmental variations. The approach varies depending on the child’s age:
Key Stages of ADHD Testing in Children:
- Preschoolers (Ages 3-5):
Evaluations rely heavily on parent/caregiver and teacher observations. Structured interviews, behavior rating scales, and monitoring across different settings help determine if symptoms persist consistently. - School-Age Children (Ages 6-12):
A more comprehensive approach is used, including parent/teacher interviews, behavioral checklists, classroom observations, and academic performance reviews. Other potential causes (e.g., learning disabilities, anxiety) are also explored. - Teens (Ages 12+):
Similar to adult assessments, this stage includes clinical interviews, self-reported symptoms, feedback from parents/teachers, and evaluation based on DSM-5 criteria. Adolescents may also discuss academic challenges, social struggles, and emotional well-being.
ADHD Testing in Adults: Why Diagnosis Matters
Research from The Primary Care Companion for CNS Disorders (PCC) highlights that ADHD in adults is often underdiagnosed, yet untreated ADHD can profoundly impact careers, relationships, and mental health.
The Adult ADHD Assessment Process:
- Initial Consultation – A healthcare provider reviews symptoms, personal history, and daily functioning.
- In-Depth Interview – Explores childhood behaviors, work performance, relationships, and overall challenges.
- Self-Report Questionnaires – Standardized tools assess symptom frequency and severity.
- Collateral Input – Feedback from family or close friends helps provide a fuller picture.
- Rule Out Other Conditions – Anxiety, depression, or other disorders may mimic ADHD and must be considered.
- Cognitive & Psychological Testing (if needed) – Evaluates attention, memory, and executive function.
- Diagnosis & Treatment Plan – Based on DSM-5 criteria, the clinician provides a clear diagnosis (if applicable) and discusses tailored treatment options—medication, therapy, lifestyle adjustments, and coping strategies.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is just one of many anxiety-related conditions, each with distinct symptoms and diagnostic approaches. For example, social anxiety disorder involves different evaluation methods than panic disorder or PTSD.
ADHD Testing in New Jersey
Accurate ADHD Diagnosis Through Expert Testing
We use evidence-based, standardized assessments to evaluate ADHD in children and adults. Our thorough diagnostic process ensures clarity, helping us create a tailored treatment plan that meets your unique needs.
Personalized Medication Management
Finding the right medication and dosage is key to managing ADHD symptoms effectively. We work closely with you to develop a customized plan, monitor your progress, and make adjustments as needed for optimal results.
ADHD Coaching for Daily Success
Struggling with organization, focus, or time management? Our ADHD coaching programs provide practical strategies and tools to help you navigate daily challenges with confidence.
Parent Coaching for Stronger Support
Raising a child with ADHD comes with unique hurdles. Our parent coaching equips you with effective techniques to support your child’s growth and reinforce their treatment plan.
Therapy for ADHD & Co-Occurring Challenges
Living with ADHD can sometimes bring anxiety, depression, or emotional struggles. Our therapists help you build coping skills, improve emotional well-being, and enhance your overall treatment journey.
Why Choose TEMA Therapy?
- Personalized Care: Our psychiatric specialists use evidence-based treatments personalized to your health history and current challenges. We believe mental health care should be as unique as you are.
- Convenient Telehealth Options: You can meet with our practitioners from the comfort of your home, thanks to our telehealth services, ensuring privacy and convenience.
- Accepting New Patients: We’re currently welcoming new patients and accept most insurance plans.
Ready to take the first step? Call us at (347) 879 0202 or fill out our online form, and our team will reach out to you shortly.
FAQs About ADHD Assessments
How is ADHD diagnosed?
ADHD is diagnosed through a comprehensive assessment that reviews symptoms, their severity, and their impact on daily life. Specialists use:
- Symptom checklists
- Behaviour rating scales
- Input from family, teachers, or others who know you well
What information do I need to provide?
Before the assessment, you’ll complete questionnaires—one should be filled out by a parent or someone who knew you well in childhood. This helps determine whether ADHD symptoms were present early in life. If they can’t attend, prepare examples of childhood behaviours that may relate to ADHD.
How long does an assessment take?
The diagnostic interview lasts up to 120 minutes, but you’ll also need to complete several detailed questionnaires beforehand.
How much does a private ADHD assessment cost?
A private assessment costs £*95, excluding follow-up appointments or medication.
Who conducts the assessment?
Experienced consultant psychiatrists specialising in ADHD lead all assessments.
Will I be prescribed medication?
Medication isn’t prescribed during the assessment. If recommended, you’ll need follow-up appointments (3–4 sessions) to determine the right dosage.
- 30-minute follow-up: £*25
- 50-minute follow-up: £*10
If you require a repeat prescription outside of an appointment, this will incur an administration fee of £*5.
Do you provide the option of face-to-face and online appointments?
Yes, we provide both options, subject to availability. We have various clinics for face-to-face appointments around the UK. For more information, please see our locations page.
Do you accept insurance?
While we do not accept insurance directly, we provide detailed receipts for those seeking out-of-network reimbursement. Please check with your insurance provider to determine coverage.
