what is
ADHD?
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurocognitive disorder that begins in childhood or adolescence. It is characterized by an ongoing pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning in multiple areas of life (work, school, relationships, sport, etc.). It is diagnosable and treatable through a variety of medical and behavioral interventions.
SYMPTOMS OF
ADHD
The symptoms of ADHD can vary from individual to individual, but tend to fall into two broad types: inattentiveness and hyperactivity. Those with ADHD may exhibit behaviors that fall into either or both of these categories.
The exhibition of these behaviors is in no way a diagnosis itself, but it is a place to begin. If you have questions or concerns about yourself or your child, consider contacting us. We’re here to help.
Adults with ADHD concerns can take our free, three-minute ADHD screener below.
INATTENTION
Overlooking details or making careless mistakes; trouble paying attention; not seeming to listen when spoken to directly; getting frequently side-tracked from daily activities; avoiding tasks, like homework, that require mental effort over a long period of time; trouble with organization; and forgetfulness.
HYPERACTIVITY/IMPULSIVITY
Fidgeting with or tapping hands or feet or squirming in seat; unable to play or participate in leisure activities quietly; often “on the go” or acting as if “driven by a motor;” excessive talking or interrupting; trouble waiting their turn; and chronic restlessness.
TESTING AND
DIAGNOSIS
Premier Sport Psychology provides individuals aged 14 and above with comprehensive testing to determine whether a diagnosis of ADHD is warranted. We also diagnose or rule out other mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression that may be contributing to attention problems. The assessment includes a report with our findings, the diagnostic decision, and recommendations for treatment.
WHY PREMIER
SPORT PSYCHOLOGY?
Premier Sport Psychology has a testing division devoted to the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. Our licensed psychologists and psychometrists are certified to administer ADHD testing, review and interpret diagnostic information, and in the event of a positive diagnosis, recommend medical and behavioral interventions that best meet our clients’ needs.
As a courtesy to those considering ADHD testing, we offer a free, no-obligation, 15-minute consultation with our Director of Clinical Assessment to determine whether ADHD testing is right for you or your child.
WHAT TO
EXPECT
First Contact
Our diagnostic sequence is designed to make testing clear and comfortable for all participants. Our staff will walk you through the testing process when a consultation is requested, including the option to schedule a free 15-minute phone call with our Director of Clinical Assessment.
Clinical Interview
Your first session will be a one-hour clinical interview, where your provider will gather information to understand your/your child’s background and history of concerns, and if necessary, schedule an appointment for testing. If after this interview your provider finds no information supporting an ADHD diagnosis, this will be reported, and you can discontinue the process at no additional cost.
Testing
Testing is conducted on-site and consists of a series of 10–15-minute tasks and subtests. Testing is facilitated one-on-one by your provider or a psychometrist, and can be thought of as a collection of low-pressure, interactive puzzles and brain games. These are not bubble-tests and the majority of testing is non-written. Questions are allowed and the testing environment is both safe and accommodating. The total testing time is approximately four hours, and includes breaks. Following your testing, you will be emailed 1-2 online questionnaires that you can complete at home, at your leisure.
Feedback Session
Your final session will be a one-hour feedback session, during which we will explain our findings, the diagnostic decision, and recommended next steps. You will also be presented with a comprehensive report and documentation for medical exemptions and academic accommodations, if applicable.
Dr. Janet Finlayson
Director of Clinical Assessment
Janet Finlayson, Psy.D. is a licensed psychologist who specializes in ADHD assessment and diagnosis, and manages all ADHD testing for Premier Sport Psychology and the University of Minnesota’s athletic department.
Contact us to schedule a free 15-minute consultation with Dr. Finlayson to determine if ADHD testing is right for you.
FREQUENTLY ASKED
QUESTIONS
DO YOU TEST ADULTS FOR ADHD?
Yes. Because ADHD is a developmental disorder that begins in childhood, there is no formal diagnosis of “adult ADHD.” However, absent a diagnosis in childhood, many adults find that attention problems which began in their early years are interfering substantially in their day-to-day lives. We can test for and diagnose ADHD in adults and provide recommendations for effective treatment.
DO YOU TEST NON-ATHLETES FOR ADHD?
Absolutely. There is nothing in the testing, diagnosis, or treatment stages of this process that is exclusive to athletes. The diagnostic process includes a combination of information gathering and on-site mental performance testing, each of which apply equally to individuals (14 years of age and up) of all interests and walks of life.
IS MEDICATION THE ONLY TREAMENT OPTION FOR ADHD?
No. Medication is one of many treatment options for those diagnosed with ADHD. Your provider will discuss these options with you after your diagnosis, and work with you to find interventions with which you are comfortable.
WHAT DOES IT COST?
The total cost of testing, from the clinical interview through the diagnostic decision and final report, is $2925.
An initial payment of $525 is required for records review, the collection of collateral information, and the first clinical interview. If after this interview it becomes clear that there is no information available to support an ADHD diagnosis, the process can be discontinued at no additional cost.
IS TESTING COVERED BY INSURANCE?
As an out of network provider, we do not accept or bill to insurance. However, clients may use Health Savings or Flexible Spending Accounts, or may file for partial reimbursement with their insurance providers if they so choose.
