If you‘re considering an ADHD evaluation, I want to ensure you understand the process and feel comfortable every step of the way. Let me walk you through what to expect during your assessment at my private practice, including the option for online assessments.

 

The Initial Session: Setting the Stage

Our journey begins with an initial session, a crucial appointment that allows me to gather a comprehensive history and understand your unique situation. During this session, we will discuss your symptoms, medical history, and any concerns you may have. This information is essential for planning your assessment effectively and making an accurate diagnosis. Whether you are self-referred or recommended by an external physician, this initial session is necessary and part of the assessment process.

 

The Diagnostic Tools: Mapping Your Mental Health

 

During the consultation, you will be asked to complete several standardized scales. These scales help assess various aspects of your mental health, including anxiety, depression, and other conditions that may be relevant. Completing these scales is a vital part of the diagnostic process.

 

Example of Standardized Scales You Will Complete:

 

 

GAD-7 (Generalized Anxiety Disorder - 7 Item ): Assesses anxiety levels.

SIAS (Social Interaction Anxiety Scale ): Measures social anxiety.

OCI-R (Obsessive-Compulsive Inventory - Revised ): Evaluates obsessive-compulsive symptoms.

WFIRS-S (Weiss Functional Impairment Rating Scale - Self-Report ): Assesses functional impairment.

WSR-II (Weiss Symptom Record II ): Records ADHD symptoms.

WURS-25 (Wender Utah Rating Scale - 25 Item ): Evaluates childhood ADHD symptoms.

Conners Adult ADHD Rating Scale: Measures ADHD symptoms in adults.

Brown Executive Functioning Attention Scale: Assesses executive functioning and attention.

Executive Skills Questionnaire - Revised (ESQ-R ): Evaluates executive skills and self-regulation.

Borderline Personality Questionnaire (BPQ ): Screens for borderline personality traits.

Borderline Symptom List (BSL-23 ): Measures the severity of borderline personality symptoms.

 

The Online Option: Convenience and Accessibility

 

I understand that convenience and accessibility are important. Therefore, the assessment sessions and the completion of standardized rating scales can be done online. This allows you to participate in the assessment from the comfort of your home. If you are only able to schedule online sessions, you can also contact me.

 

The Comprehensive Evaluation: A Deep Dive 

 

Scheduling a session for ADHD evaluation is the next step. During this session, we will go through the DIVA-5 (Diagnostic Interview for ADHD in Adults, version 5 ), a structured tool used to assess and diagnose ADHD in adults. This in-depth interview covers various aspects of your life, including childhood behaviors, current symptoms, and their impact on your daily functioning.

 

Coordination and Follow-Up: Mapping the Path Forward

 

After the evaluation, we will discuss the results together and outline the next steps. You will have the option to choose the language for your psychological report (Romanian, English, Spanish ). While I don‘t provide psychotherapy and cannot prescribe medication as a psychologist, I will give you referrals to adult psychiatrists and psychotherapists who can offer further support.

 

Face-to-Face Testing: The Nesplora Virtual Reality Experience

While many parts of the assessment can be conducted online, some sessions will require face-to-face testing using innovative tools like Nesplora. Nesplora uses virtual reality to assess cognitive functions in a more immersive and engaging environment. 

 

The Nesplora modules include:

 

Nesplora Aquarium: Assesses working memory and attention in a virtual underwater environment, offering a unique perspective on your cognitive abilities in a dynamic setting.Nesplora Ice Cream: Evaluates social cognition and executive functions through interactive tasks in a virtual ice cream shop, helping us understand your social interactions and decision-making processes.Nesplora Suite: A comprehensive suite that combines various cognitive assessments to provide a holistic view of your neuropsychological profile.  

Your Journey to Understanding ADHD

Understanding and diagnosing ADHD in adults is a comprehensive process that involves multiple steps and tools. From the initial session to the in-depth evaluation and follow-up, each stage is designed to provide a clear and accurate picture of your mental health. By offering both in-person and online options, I aim to make this journey as convenient and accessible as possible. Together, we can navigate the complexities of ADHD and find the best path forward for your well-being.