Aisha watched her 9-year-old son, Miles, bounce from one activity to another, leaving a trail of half-finished projects in his wake. His teacher had mentioned concerns about his focus in class, and Aisha couldn't help but wonder if these were signs of ADHD. As she contemplated seeking a diagnosis, she found herself overwhelmed by the wealth of information available online. Overwhelmed, she closed her laptop and whispered to herself, “Maybe I'll try again tomorrow”
In today’s information age, it's easier than ever to learn about ADHD online. However, the diagnostic process can be confusing, which leads many adults to rely on self-diagnosis. While self-diagnosis can be a starting point for understanding your child’s experiences, it cannot replace the expertise of a trained professional. There is a risk of both overdiagnosis and underdiagnosis when relying solely on self-assessment. Moreover, access to certain treatments, particularly medication, requires an official diagnosis from a qualified healthcare provider.
So, Who Can Diagnose ADHD?
Several types of professionals can diagnose ADHD, including therapists, psychologists, psychiatrists, neurologists, developmental pediatricians, mental health nurse practitioners, and primary care physicians with expertise in ADHD.
But here’s the thing –
While it is within these professions to assign a diagnosis, it doesn’t mean they are all equally skilled in conducting evaluations and answering your questions. The specific qualifications of the person diagnosing your child are definitely more important than their title.
When selecting a provider to assess your child for ADHD, the key is to look for someone who specializes in ADHD and has a proven track record of working with pediatric patients. Here are some key things to consider:
Frequency of ADHD Evaluations
Ask the provider how many ADHD assessments they conduct each year. The more experience they have, the better.
Up-to-date knowledge
Make sure the professional stays current on the latest ADHD research, diagnostic criteria, and treatment approaches. Membership in professional organizations such as the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) or the American Psychological Association (APA) indicates a commitment to staying informed about the latest ADHD research and standards of care.
Comprehensive Evaluation Process
A thorough ADHD assessment should include interviews, cognitive testing, and input from multiple sources including parents and teachers.
Willingness to collaborate
The best ADHD professionals work as part of a team. They collaborate with other healthcare providers, educators, and family members.
Experience with Co-Occurring Conditions
Many children with ADHD also experience other conditions, such as anxiety, depression, learning disabilities, or sensory processing issues. A professional experienced with co-occurring conditions can provide a more accurate diagnosis and comprehensive treatment plan.
To gauge a provider's ADHD expertise, consider asking these questions:
How many ADHD evaluations do you conduct annually?
What does your diagnostic process involve?
How do you stay updated on ADHD research and treatment?
Do you have experience with co-occurring conditions?
Can you provide references from other patients or professionals?
The ADHD Evaluation Process
Reviewing Medical and Mental Health History
The ADHD evaluation process typically begins with a review of your child's medical and mental health history. The clinician will gather information related to developmental milestones, illnesses, injuries, or family history that could be relevant. You and your child will also likely be asked to complete standardized questionnaires that assess the presence and severity of ADHD symptoms.
Gathering Observations from Multiple Perspectives
The evaluating clinician will want to hear not only from you as the parent, but also from your child directly. They may also request feedback from your child's teacher, as well as other caregivers and individuals who work closely with your child.
Screening for Co-occurring Conditions
ADHD rarely exists in isolation. This part of the process ensures that professionals can distinguish between these conditions, identify how they interact, and develop a tailored approach that addresses all aspects of the individual’s needs.
ADHD Diagnosis
Upon the completion of the evaluation process, the clinician will provide a clear determination of whether your child meets the diagnostic criteria for ADHD or not. They will also explain the severity of your child's ADHD symptoms.
Treatment Plan
Finally, the clinician will work with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your child's specific needs. This may include referrals for therapy, medication, and executive function strategies.
Moving Forward
At HabitCoach, we have a team of professionals helping families create personalized strategies to address the unique challenges of executive dysfunction, whether or not your child has an ADHD diagnosis. We can also point you in the right direction and provide some guidance on the diagnostic process.
