ADHD Evaluations
Welcome to UpWell Psychiatry. We provide comprehensive ADHD evaluations for teens and adults seeking clarity around attention, focus, and executive functioning challenges.
If you’re wondering whether you have ADHD, or if you’ve been previously diagnosed and want a careful re-evaluation, this guide will help you understand our process and what to expect. Our approach is thoughtful, evidence-based, and intentionally thorough.
Understanding ADHD
ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, impulse control, motivation, and executive functioning.
While often associated with hyperactivity in children, ADHD commonly presents differently in teens and adults. It may look like:
Chronic procrastination
Difficulty finishing tasks
Forgetfulness
Emotional reactivity
Disorganization
Feeling overwhelmed
“ADHD frequently overlaps with anxiety, depression, trauma, sleep issues, hormonal changes, and burnout. Because of this, accurate diagnosis requires a careful and thorough evaluation.”
Signs You Might Have ADHD
There is no single test that confirms a diagnosis. Symptoms typically must be:
Inattention
Difficulty sustaining focus, frequent distractions, disorganization, and poor time management.
Executive Function
Trouble planning, prioritizing, starting, or completing tasks in daily life or work environments.
Impulsivity
Interrupting others, acting quickly without thinking, or ongoing mental or physical restlessness.
Because these symptoms can overlap with other mental health conditions, a comprehensive evaluation is essential for clarity and accuracy.
Our Evaluation Process
At UpWell Psychiatry, we do not rely solely on quick screenings. Most individuals will not receive a final
diagnosis during their first visit. Our goal is accuracy and clarity.
Step One
Comprehensive First Appointment
Your first appointment is a full biopsychosocial psychiatric evaluation. This is an in-depth conversation exploring your history and context.
Please note that most patients do not receive a formal diagnosis during the initial evaluation visit.
- Current symptoms and concerns
- Childhood development & school history
- Academic and work patterns
- Mental health history across your life
- Medical, hormonal, and sleep factors
Step Two
Focused ADHD Assessment
If ADHD remains a consideration after your initial evaluation, we schedule a follow-up visit to complete a focused assessment tailored to your unique presentation.
- Structured clinical interviews
- Validated ADHD rating scales
- Review of past records
- Collateral information (when appropriate)
Step Three
Collaborative Treatment Plan
If ADHD is diagnosed, we take time to thoroughly review the findings. Our goal is not simply labeling symptoms, but helping you understand your brain and supporting your well-being.
- Medication options (when appropriate)
- Behavioral and organizational strategies
- Therapy or ADHD coaching referrals
- Workplace or academic accommodations
Objective Cognitive Testing
In some cases, we incorporate Creyos, a research-backed digital cognitive assessment platform. It provides objective data that supports diagnostic clarity and personalized treatment planning.
Testing is completed securely online from home and typically takes 20-30 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Will I receive a diagnosis during my first appointment?
Most patients do not receive a final diagnosis during the first visit. ADHD evaluation typically requires more than one appointment to ensure accuracy.
2. Do I need computerized testing?
Not always. Creyos or other tools are used when clinically appropriate. Your provider will determine what is necessary based on your presentation.
3. Can anxiety or depression look like ADHD?
Yes. Many symptoms overlap. That’s why a comprehensive evaluation is essential before making a diagnosis.
4. What if I were diagnosed with ADHD as a child?
We may still review your history to ensure current symptoms align with diagnostic criteria and to guide treatment planning.
5. Do you accept insurance for ADHD evaluations?
We are in-network with most commercial plans and verify benefits in advance.
Struggling to Focus or Stay
Organized?
An informed, thorough evaluation can bring direction and a plan.