ADHD ADD Testing
Testing for Adults and Children
ADHD testing , formerly called ADD, is offered for children, adolescents and adults.
Different people need varying types of assessment
Because people are different and have unique needs, testing is adapted to your specific need in regards to ADHD. There are also a variety of report styles. All of these can impact the bottom line cost of testing, so make sure you ask about your options. You don't need more than is necessary for your situation. Don't over pay for unnecessary testing or long reports unless it truly is needed.
What do you assess for ADHD?
It is vital that data be collected and assessments be given in order to determine if you or your child meets the criteria for ADHD. Some of the areas that should be addressed are:
- Medical and Personal History.
- Intelligence.
- Education or Learning Issues.
- Possible Co-existing Conditions.
- Rule out if another condition is causing the ADHD like characteristics.
- Whether or not you meet the specific characteristics of Inattentive, Hyperactive and/or Impulsive ADHD.
- Identification of weak Executive Function or Brain-Based Issues, e.g., Planning, Prioritization, Time Management, Organizing Space, Organizing Materials, Getting on Task, Staying on Task.
If all areas are not addressed, it is difficult to make an accurate diagnosis.
Reports, strategies and Recommendations
As previously stated there are several report types available, which can impact cost. However, the most important part of a report is not the size of the body or the diagnosis. The most important part of the report is what you can do to address the issues that have been identified. It's the strategies that you need to have, so that you or your child can begin the process of compensating for, or dealing with, different ADHD characteristics, Brain-Based Issues or other contributing factors. Here are the basic areas that are covered when Russ writes a report.
- Medical and Personal History.
- 9 symptoms of Inattentive ADHD are assessed.
- 9 symptoms of Hyperactivity/Impulsivity are assessed.
- 18 brain-based Issues are assessed.
- 5 secondary issues are assessed.
- Conditions that have Characteristics that look like ADHD are ruled out or in and addressed in the recommendations section..
- Several other underlying contributing factors are also assessed and recommendations are made to address each of these issues if they show to be an issue.
- Strategies for home, work/school and/or compensatory strategies for self are addressed for each of the issues identified. (That means you could have two or three strategies or recommendations for each area identified.)
Usually, the reason you get an assessment is to determine what you can do to address the issues. Most people don't want to just receive a diagnosis (unless your physician has asked for one). They want to know what they can do to make things better. In addition, most people don't want short, general recommendations that do not provide solid strategies or recommendations that helps them address the issues. Most people want help, and should get it in the recommendation section of the report.
treatment
In addition to testing, treatment services are also offered through this office. There are personal compensatory tools, specific strategies for school, home or work that can be learned for each of the areas measured on the assessment. Over fifty possible areas of concern can be addressed in treatment. You will walk away with strategies that you or your child can use for the rest of your life or until it is no longer needed in some cases. Give us a call!
Call for More Information Regarding ADHD Assessments or Treatment
972-506-7111
Stress, Anxiety, Depression & Bipolar Disorder
stress, anxiety and depression
Russ tests for a variety of conditions. Some of the more common conditions he tests and treats can be found below.
Testing FOr Anxiety
There are several types of anxiety. Each one can cause significant problems for you or your child. Anxiety can have a negative impact on both the brain and the body. It is important to address it before it causes damage. There are many strategies that can be helpful. Some can help you in the moment and some that can be used over time to reduce anxiety in your life. Russ has written two books on Depression and Anxiety. The first is, 'Depression and Anxiety in Adults', and the second it 'Depression and Anxiety in Students'. You can find more information about these books at www.amazon.com/author/russcrites
Some of the types of anxiety that can be treated are:
- Generalized Anxiety
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
- School Phobia
- Panic Attacks
- Social Phobia
- PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder)
Testing for Depression
Whether you feel mildly depressed or are experiencing some major symptoms of depression, it can cause life problems for you. Once tested, strategies to help you address your depression can be learned. Testing can also help determine if medication management may be a good option to be considered. Russ wrote two books on depression and anxiety as mentioned above. You can find more information about these books at www.amazon.com/author/russcrites
Testing for Bipolar
Bipolar Disorder can be hard to assess, but there are some instruments and data collection devices that can help identify if you are experiencing this disorder. It can cause you to be hypomanic, manic or depressed. You can have mood swings between the manic and depressive sides of Bipolar. Both can make you miserable, but in different ways. An assessment can help you determine if you have Bipolar and once identified a treatment plan can be developed. Russ wrote a book titled, Bipolar or ADHD and is currently being revised, and a workbook titled, Bipolar Disorder Survival Workbook: Maximize Health While Minimizing Depression and Mania. You can find more information about these books at www.amazon.com/author/russcrites
Testing for other conditions
Russ provides testing for many other conditions. Call and he can give you more information about what he can test for and the instruments that might be used.
Testing for Public, private and charter Schools
Russ has worked for and with public, private and charter schools for over thirty years. He continues to offer testing on an as needed basis.
- Intellectual Testing
- Achievement Testing
- Testing for Emotional Conditions Defined by Law
- Depression
- Anxiety
- ADHD Assessments
- Oppositional Defiant and Conduct Disorder
Russ provides testing for many other conditions. Call and he can give you more information about how he can help and the instruments that might be used.
Call for more information about testing services
Call 972-506-711 for more information about testing or to set up an appointment.