Comprehensive ADHD Testing FAQ: What to Expect for Children, Teens, and Adults

General Questions About ADHD Testing

What is ADHD, and How Is It Diagnosed?

ADHD is a developmental disorder characterized by a persistent pattern of symptoms involving inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with functioning or development. Symptoms start in childhood and often continue into adulthood.

What Types of Symptoms Should I or My Child Have Before Considering ADHD Testing?

Before considering ADHD testing for yourself or your child, the following types of symptoms should be observed, ideally persisting for at least 6 months and being inappropriate for the individual’s developmental level:

Inattention Symptoms Include:

• Often makes careless mistakes or has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities
• Frequently seems to not listen when spoken to directly
• Often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish tasks or chores
• Has trouble organizing tasks and activities
• Avoids or is reluctant to engage in tasks requiring sustained mental effort
• Often loses things necessary for tasks and activities
• Is easily distracted by external stimuli
• Is forgetful in daily activities

Hyperactivity and Impulsivity Symptoms Include:

• Often fidgets with or taps hands or feet, or squirms in seat
• Frequently leaves seat in situations where remaining in seat is expected
• Runs about or climbs inappropriately
• Difficulty playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly
• Acts as if “driven by a motor,” always on the go
• Talks excessively
• Blurts out answers before questions have been finished
• Has trouble waiting their turn
• Interrupts or intrudes on others

To Consider ADHD Testing, These Symptoms Should:

• Be present in two or more settings (home, school, work, etc.)
• Cause noticeable impairment or difficulties in social, academic, or occupational functioning
• Have onset before age 12 (for children)
• Not be better explained by another disorder or condition

In children, typically 6 or more symptoms in either inattention or hyperactivity-impulsivity domains are needed for diagnosis consideration; for adolescents 17 or older and adults, 5 or more symptoms suffice.

What Is Involved in an ADHD Evaluation?

Intake

The intake session lasts 30 to 60 minutes and involves a detailed discussion of concerns and history. For children, parents meet with the clinician to explore the reasons for seeking evaluation. The goal is to identify key areas of concern to guide the assessment process.

Testing

Testing sessions for ADHD take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on the individual’s age, their ability to stay focused on and complete tasks, and the number of breaks they need during the assessment. Children, for example, often need multiple breaks as they have difficulty staying focused and motivated.

Feedback

Held after the diagnostic report is completed, this 30–60 minute session includes:

• A review of the assessment results
• Clarification of any questions
• Discussion of personalized recommendations and next steps

How Long Does ADHD Testing Take?

Ages 0–5

• Assessments can begin as early as age 3 or 4
• Primarily based on caregiver/teacher reports
• Cognitive and memory assessments included
• Test length: 2 to 4 hours depending on attention span, breaks, and task completion

Ages 6–12

• Comprehensive assessment includes direct testing and behavior ratings
• Short breaks provided as needed
• Test length: Approximately 4 hours

Ages 13–17

• Focuses on executive functioning, attention, and academic-related concerns
• Test length: 3 to 4 hours (fewer breaks typically required)

Ages 18+

• Emphasis on attention, executive functioning, and daily life challenges
• Test length: 3 to 4 hours (breaks as needed; lunch typically not required)

Is There a Single Test to Diagnose ADHD, or Is It a Combination of Assessments?

Diagnosis of ADHD typically involves a comprehensive evaluation with a combination of assessments. For our ADHD assessments, we utilize measures of cognitive functioning, memory, attention, and executive functioning.

Can ADHD Be Diagnosed in Adults?

Yes. ADHD can be diagnosed in adults as well as children.

Are the Testing Methods Different for Males and Females?

No, the testing measures are the same across genders.

Are Online ADHD Tests Reliable?

There are online screeners for ADHD. While they can provide insight into whether someone may meet criteria for ADHD, they are typically not meant for diagnosis on their own.

How Much Does ADHD Testing Cost, and Is It Covered by Insurance?

The cost of ADHD testing can vary depending on your insurance plan and any out-of-pocket expenses. In many cases, testing is covered by insurance; however, some plans may require that ADHD is not the sole diagnosis in order for coverage to apply. We recommend contacting your insurance provider directly to confirm your specific coverage details.

Who Is Qualified to Diagnose ADHD?

Any of the following professionals can diagnose ADHD: psychiatrists, psychologists, pediatricians, primary care physicians, neurologists, neuropsychologists, clinical social workers, licensed counselors, and advanced practice nurses (depending on state and setting). Only certain medical providers can prescribe ADHD medications.

What Happens After an ADHD Diagnosis?

Once the assessment is complete, you will receive your diagnostic report and attend a feedback session. During this session, the clinician will:

• Review test findings
• Answer any questions you may have
• Provide individualized recommendations (also included in the report)

Recommendations may include therapy, school accommodations, skill-building strategies, and additional reading resources.

Is the Report Valid for Schools, College, or Work?

Yes. The diagnostic report can typically be used to support requests for accommodations at school or in the workplace, depending on documentation requirements.

What Is ADHD Testing, and Why Is It Done?

An ADHD assessment is an evaluation designed to determine whether an individual meets criteria for Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). It includes standardized tests, clinical observations, and input from caregivers or the individual.

What Tools Are Used?

We use a combination of gold-standard, evidence-based tools tailored to each individual’s age and presenting concerns, which may include:

• Cognitive functioning assessments
• Executive functioning and memory measures
• Emotional and behavioral regulation tools
• Attention-specific evaluations

To ensure a comprehensive understanding, we incorporate rating scales completed by caregivers, teachers, and/or the individual. Depending on the referral question, assessments of emotional dysregulation and adaptive functioning may also be included.

Questions About ADHD Testing for Children

What Behaviors in My Child Might Signal the Need for ADHD Testing?

Ages 0–5

• Avoids or dislikes tasks requiring sustained attention
• Quickly loses interest in activities
• Excessive talking or noise-making
• Climbs or jumps in unsafe situations
• Constant restlessness or fidgeting
• Fearless or engages in risky behaviors
• Aggressive toward peers; possible daycare suspensions
• Frequently injured from impulsive behavior

Ages 6–12

• Easily distracted and forgetful
• Difficulty following instructions
• Trouble staying seated or still
• Excessive talking or interrupting
• Struggles to wait their turn
• Frequent impulsive or restless behaviors

Ages 13–17

• Difficulty organizing and completing tasks
• Careless mistakes or poor attention to detail
• Struggles with planning and time management
• Restlessness (often internalized)
• Academic and peer relationship difficulties
• Ongoing issues with impulse control

At What Age Can a Child Be Reliably Tested for ADHD?

A child can be reliably tested for ADHD as young as 4 years old. Diagnosing children under age 4 is more difficult due to normal behavioral variability. Diagnosis requires:

• Symptoms present for at least 6 months
• Present in two or more settings
• Causing functional impairment

What Types of Tests Are Used to Diagnose ADHD in Children?

• Cognitive functioning assessments
• Executive functioning and memory measures
• Emotional and behavioral regulation tools
• Attention-specific evaluations

How Do Teachers and Parents Contribute to the Diagnostic Process?

We use rating scales completed by caregivers, teachers, and/or the individual to gain a full understanding. Additional assessments may evaluate emotional regulation or adaptive functioning depending on the child’s age and concerns.

Are There Different Criteria for Diagnosing ADHD in Boys Versus Girls?

No, the diagnostic criteria are the same. However, presentation differs:

• Boys: Often show more externalized symptoms (e.g., hyperactivity, impulsivity)
• Girls: More likely to show inattentiveness, disorganization, and emotional sensitivity

Criteria for diagnosis include:

• At least 6 symptoms of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity
• Several symptoms before age 12
• Present in two or more settings
• Clear evidence of impairment
• Not better explained by another disorder

How Does ADHD Testing Account for Normal Childhood Behavior Versus Symptoms?

Testing distinguishes ADHD symptoms from typical behavior using:

• Symptom duration and developmental appropriateness
• Functional impairment
• Consistency across multiple settings
• Number of symptoms and collateral reports
• Rule-outs for other disorders
• Caution with preschool-aged diagnoses

Do Symptoms Need to Be Present in More Than One Setting?

Yes, symptoms must occur in at least two settings—such as home, school, or extracurricular activities—for a valid diagnosis.

What Role Do Learning Problems or Emotional Concerns Play?

Learning difficulties or emotional disorders often co-occur with ADHD. A thorough assessment looks at these areas to ensure a correct diagnosis and appropriate recommendations.

Will Testing Also Look for Other Conditions (Anxiety, Depression, Autism)?

Generally, no. ADHD-only evaluations focus on attention and executive functioning. One emotional screener may be included to determine whether more in-depth emotional testing is needed.

Questions About ADHD Testing for Adolescents & Teens

What Changes in School or Social Relationships Should Prompt ADHD Screening?

• Declining academic performance (e.g., falling grades, incomplete assignments)
• Inattention and focus problems in class
• Hyperactivity, fidgeting, or impulsivity in school
• Difficulties making or maintaining friendships
• Behavioral issues (interruptions, acting out, emotional outbursts)
• Problems in multiple environments (home, school, activities)

Can Teens Be Diagnosed If They Weren’t Hyperactive as Children?

Yes, teens can be diagnosed even without prior hyperactivity. Inattentive symptoms often emerge or become more noticeable during adolescence.

Is Inattentive ADHD Different From Hyperactive-Impulsive Types in Testing?

Yes. The type of ADHD influences symptom focus during testing:

• Inattentive type: Emphasizes attention, forgetfulness, disorganization
• Hyperactive-impulsive type: Focuses on impulsivity, hyperactivity, restlessness

The evaluation process remains the same overall.

How Does Puberty Affect ADHD Symptoms or Testing Accuracy?

• Hyperactivity may decrease with age
• Inattention often remains stable or worsens
• Puberty can intensify mood swings and emotional dysregulation
• Hormonal changes may exacerbate ADHD symptoms, impacting emotional and behavioral regulation

Questions About ADHD Testing for Adults

I Was Never Diagnosed as a Child—Can I Still Be Tested?

Yes. At Bright Pine Behavioral Health, we provide comprehensive ADHD testing for individuals aged 4–89. Adults often show symptoms such as:

• Disorganization, poor time management
• Trouble sustaining attention
• Difficulty starting or finishing projects
• Forgetfulness, lateness
• Inner restlessness
• Impulsivity in decision-making

How Is Adult ADHD Testing Different From Children’s?

Adult assessments include fewer third-party (e.g., parent/teacher) reports and rely more on self-report. The testing battery itself is similar.

What Questions Will Be Asked About Childhood Behavior?

Questions during intake may include:

• What kinds of difficulties did you have in school?
• What symptoms did you experience?
• What were your academic/social strengths and weaknesses?
• How did symptoms impact your life?
• Did you develop coping strategies?

Will the Tests Focus on Work and Daily Life?

Yes. While executive functioning is the main focus, adult testing includes self-report measures related to work, home, and everyday challenges.

Can Undiagnosed ADHD Affect Relationships or Mental Health?

Yes. Undiagnosed ADHD can contribute to:

• Chronic stress
• Relationship conflict
• Poor emotional regulation
• Low self-esteem
• Anxiety or depression

How Does ADHD Present Differently in Adult Men vs. Women?

Men:

• Impulsivity and restlessness
• Risk-taking (e.g., substance use, speeding)

Women:

• Often diagnosed after their child is
• Burnout, anxiety, overwhelm
• Chronic underachievement despite capability

Sex-Specific Considerations

Are There Differences in How ADHD Symptoms Present in Boys Versus Girls?

Yes, there are notable gender differences in symptom presentation:

Boys:

• More disruptive in class
• More likely to be referred for assessment
• Diagnosed at younger ages
• Typically present with hyperactive/impulsive symptoms

Girls:

• Appear daydreamy, shy, or disorganized
• Less likely to be flagged by teachers
• May be mislabeled as anxious or “not trying”
• Often present with inattentive symptoms

Teens

Boys:

• Impulsivity may manifest as rule-breaking or defiance
• Hyperactivity often continues but may lessen

Girls:

• Increased emotional concerns (e.g., anxiety, depression)
• Symptoms may worsen with life demands
• More likely to internalize failures or difficulties

Why Are Boys Diagnosed More Often Than Girls?

Boys are more frequently diagnosed due to more overt behaviors (e.g., hyperactivity) that are disruptive and noticeable. Girls’ symptoms, being more internalized, are often overlooked.

Are Girls With ADHD More Likely to Be Overlooked or Misdiagnosed?

Yes. Girls and women are frequently misdiagnosed with:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Bipolar disorder
• Borderline personality disorder

They are often diagnosed later in life—sometimes not until adulthood.

How Might Symptoms in Girls/Women Be Different?

• More inattentive symptoms
• Less overt hyperactivity
• Hyperactivity may appear as mental restlessness
• Strong masking and compensatory behaviors
• More emotional sensitivity and overwhelm

What Testing Practices Help Ensure Accurate Diagnosis in Females?

• Gender-sensitive assessments
• Comprehensive symptom history
• Screening for co-occurring conditions (e.g., anxiety, depression)
• Multiple informants and observation across settings
• Attention to internalizing symptoms and compensatory strategies

Are There Gender Differences in Follow-Up or Treatment?

Treatments are similar but considerations may vary:

• Women may benefit more from non-stimulant medications
• Hormonal changes (puberty, pregnancy, menopause) may affect symptoms and medication efficacy
• Emphasis on managing co-occurring anxiety, depression, or eating disorders
• Girls and women may receive less aggressive treatment due to atypical presentation

Behavioral and Symptom-Related Questions

What Are the Main Symptoms Considered?

Inattention:

• Careless mistakes, poor attention to detail
• Difficulty sustaining attention
• Doesn’t seem to listen when spoken to
• Fails to follow instructions or finish tasks
• Disorganized and avoids sustained effort
• Frequently loses things
• Easily distracted
• Forgetful in daily life

Hyperactivity & Impulsivity:

• Fidgeting or squirming
• Leaves seat inappropriately
• Runs/climbs excessively
• Cannot play quietly
• Talks excessively
• Blurts out answers
• Difficulty waiting turn
• Interrupts or intrudes on others

Do Symptoms Have to Be Present in Every Context?

No, but they must be present in at least two settings (e.g., home, school, work, extracurricular).

How Severe or Persistent Should Symptoms Be?

• Present for 6+ months
• Inappropriate for the individual’s developmental level
• Clinically significant impairment in social, academic, or occupational functioning

Are Questionnaires Completed by Parents, Teachers, or Individuals?

Yes. Depending on age:

• Children: Parents and teachers
• Teens/Adults: Self-report + reports from spouse/partner or others when available

Can ADHD Co-Occur With Learning Disabilities or Conduct Issues?

Yes. Our ADHD-only assessments may include academic screeners (e.g., for dyslexia) if warranted. If broader concerns exist (e.g., reading, math, and writing), a full neuropsychological assessment is recommended.

Testing Process

Overview

ADHD assessments involve three appointments:

• Intake
• Testing
• Feedback

Intake (30–60 Minutes)

• Detailed clinical history
• Discussion of presenting concerns
• Parent interview for child cases
• Helps guide selection of tests

Testing (Varies by Age)

Ages 0–5:

• Starts as early as age 3 or 4
• Caregiver and teacher input
• Cognitive and memory tests
• 2–4 hours, with frequent breaks

Ages 6–12:

• Direct testing + behavior ratings
• 4 hours (short breaks included)

Ages 13–17:

• Focus on executive functioning and academics
• 3–4 hours (fewer breaks typically needed)

Ages 18+:

• Focus on attention, executive functioning, daily life
• 3–4 hours (no lunch needed, breaks as needed)

Feedback (30–60 Minutes)

• Review of test results
• Q&A with clinician
• Individualized recommendations and next steps

Cost & Insurance

Do You Accept Insurance?

Yes. We are in-network with:

• Blue Cross Blue Shield
• Blue Care Network
• ASR
• Priority Health (select clinicians)

If out-of-network, we can provide a superbill for potential reimbursement.
We also accept CareCredit for flexible payment options.

What Is the Turnaround Time?

Traditional Testing:

• Report turnaround: 4–6 weeks after testing
• Time includes insurance claims and final payment processing

Expedited Testing (Private Pay Only):

• Report turnaround: 5 business days
• Testing scheduled within 1–2 weeks based on clinician availability

Outcomes

What Happens After Testing?

After the assessment:

• You receive a comprehensive diagnostic report
• Attend a feedback session with the clinician
• Discussion includes:
  
  • Review of findings
  • Answers to any questions
  • Individualized recommendations

Recommendations may involve:

• Therapy referrals
• School or workplace accommodations
• Skill-building strategies
• Additional resources

Is the Report Valid for School, College, or Work?

Yes. The diagnostic report can typically be used to support:

• IEPs or 504 plans at schools
• Accommodations at colleges or universities
• Workplace accommodations (depending on employer requirements)