FAQ

Attention‑Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that are developmentally inappropriate, interfere with daily functioning, and begin before age 12. ADHD often co-occurs with other conditions, such as anxiety, depression, or learning disorders.

According to the DSM‑5 criteria, symptoms must persist for at least six months and be present in two or more settings (e.g., home, school, work). Symptom groups include:

Inattention:

• Often makes careless mistakes or overlooks details
• Difficulty sustaining attention
• Appears not to listen
• Fails to follow through on instructions or tasks
• Poor organization
• Avoidance of tasks requiring sustained mental effort
• Frequently loses necessary items
• Easily distracted
• Forgetfulness in daily activities

Hyperactivity‑Impulsivity:

• Fidgets or squirms
• Leaves seat often
• Difficulty playing quietly
• Talks excessively
• Runs/climbs in inappropriate situations
• Feels “driven by a motor”
• Difficulty waiting turn
• Blurts out answers
• Interrupts or intrudes on others

“ADD” (Attention‑Deficit Disorder) is an outdated term that referred to inattentive-only ADHD. The current DSM‑5 recognizes three presentations of ADHD: predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive, and combined.

You may benefit from assessment if you consistently experience symptoms such as trouble focusing, impulsivity, disorganization, restlessness, or mood swings that affect daily functioning at home, school, or work. Our expert providers can evaluate your symptoms to determine if ADHD is present and distinguish it from other possible causes.

Untreated ADHD can lead to higher rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. It can negatively impact relationships, academic or work performance, and everyday routines, contributing to impulsivity, forgetfulness, frustration, poor time management, mood swings, and overall reduced quality of life.

We provide ADHD evaluations for individuals aged 14 and older.

Our evaluation is designed in phases to make it more cost-effective:

1. Initial Diagnostic Evaluation & Pre‑assessment
   
   
   • During a 60 to 90 minute session, we assess psychiatric, medical, family, substance use, and trauma history, and rule out other conditions (e.g., anxiety, depression). We then send ADHD questionnaires via email to be completed before the next appointment.
     
     
2. ADHD Assessment Session
   
   
   • We review questionnaire results, discuss your symptoms and challenges, and arrange for computerized ADHD testing to be done at home prior to the next visit.
     
     
3. Computerized ADHD Test
   
   
   • You’ll complete the CNS Vital Signs™ test remotely via a secure portal. We’ll guide you with instructions. No software installation needed.
     
     
4. Computer Testing Review & Treatment Planning
   
   
   • Your provider will analyze all data: interviews, questionnaires, test results, and discuss the findings, recommendations, and next steps (including EKG) in a follow-up session. Please allow 2–3 weeks for the full test report.
     
     
5. Regular Follow‑Ups
   
   
   • Should medication be prescribed, we hold regular visits to monitor your symptoms and medication side effects.
     
     

No, everything is done virtually using secure, HIPAA-compliant tools. The at-home testing process is safe, secure, user-friendly, and efficient.

We utilize CNS Vital Signs™, a computerized, professionally-validated neurocognitive assessment tool. This platform evaluates domains such as memory, attention, processing speed, and reaction time to aid in an accurate ADHD diagnosis.

Treatment is tailored and typically includes:

• Medication, often stimulants that enhance dopamine and norepinephrine activity
• Behavioral strategies and psychoeducation, which may be recommended or coordinated with therapists for non-medication approaches

Yes! Our providers can prescribe appropriate medications following the evaluation and offer ongoing management, adjusting doses, monitoring side effects, and supporting your progress.

ADHD testing (e.g., questionnaires, CNS Vital Signs™) focuses on attention, impulsivity, and executive function. In contrast, neuropsychological testing is in-depth, often lasting multiple hours, and evaluates broader cognitive functions like memory, language, and visual-spatial skills, typically used when other learning or developmental concerns are present.

We bill in-network with most commercial insurers for ADHD testing and follow-up visits. Actual costs vary based on your specific insurance plan.

No. At My Mental Health Matters Psychiatric Services, we specialize exclusively in ADHD evaluation. A diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) requires a comprehensive neurodevelopmental assessment conducted by trained specialists such as psychologists, neurologists, or developmental pediatricians. This often includes behavioral observation, social communication assessments, and standardized diagnostic tools like the ADOS-2 or ADI-R.

Similarly, diagnosing learning disorders (such as dyslexia or dyscalculia) involves psychoeducational testing typically conducted by a licensed psychologist or educational specialist. This includes academic achievement testing, IQ testing, and analysis of cognitive processing.