If your therapist is planning to conduct tests to assess for ADHD in the next session, here's what you might expect during the evaluation process:
Clinical Interview: Your therapist will likely start with a clinical interview to gather information about your symptoms, medical history, developmental history, and any relevant family history. They will ask questions about your experiences and challenges, as well as how these symptoms impact different areas of your life, such as work, school, relationships, and daily functioning.
ADHD Symptom Assessment: Your therapist may use standardized assessment tools or questionnaires specifically designed to evaluate ADHD symptoms. These assessments typically involve rating scales that ask you to rate the frequency and severity of various ADHD-related symptoms. The questions may cover inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, and difficulties with organization, focus, and time management.
Psychological Testing: Depending on the complexity of the evaluation, your therapist might include psychological testing as part of the assessment. These tests could include tasks that measure attention, memory, executive functions, and other cognitive abilities that are relevant to ADHD.
Observation: In some cases, your therapist may observe your behavior in various settings to gain a better understanding of how ADHD symptoms manifest in real-life situations.
Feedback Session: After the assessment is complete, your therapist will likely schedule a feedback session to discuss the results with you. They will go over the findings, interpret the assessment results, and share their professional opinion about whether ADHD is a likely diagnosis.
Diagnosis and Treatment Plan: If ADHD is diagnosed, your therapist will work with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Treatment may include therapy, behavioral strategies, educational support, and, in some cases, medication management (if deemed appropriate and prescribed by a medical doctor or psychiatrist).
It's essential to approach the assessment process with honesty and openness, as accurate information helps your therapist make a thorough evaluation. Remember that the assessment is not a test of intelligence or capability but rather a means to better understand your challenges and strengths.
If you have any questions or concerns during the evaluation process, don't hesitate to discuss them with your therapist. Understanding the assessment process and feeling comfortable with your therapist's approach can lead to more accurate and helpful results.