ADHD Testing in Vancouver, WA & Portland, OR
Support for Kids with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
ADHD testing and diagnosis allows individuals to develop healthy strategies for managing the adverse effects while maximizing their own strengths.
ADHD testing and diagnosis allows individuals to develop healthy strategies for managing the adverse effects while maximizing their own strengths.
You’ve likely heard attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder referred to simply as ADHD or ADD. This common form of neurodivergency may be diagnosed in children, adolescents, or adults.
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and other developmental concerns often impact memory, attention, concentration, organization of thought, and other executive functions. Often referred to simply as ADHD or ADD, this common form of neurodiversity can be diagnosed in children, adolescents, or adults. Assessment helps determine whether a child has executive function disorders and the extent of their struggles, as well as offering recommendations for resources and support to help them achieve success academically, in their personal lives, and in their future careers.
You May Be Wondering
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ADHD is a disorder that impacts an individual’s executive functions. That’s a clinical way of saying that ADHD makes certain tasks more difficult. Specifically, the neurodevelopmental pathways that allow people to prioritize tasks, remember small details, focus for extended periods, or control movement and impulses may not be functioning as expected at the individual’s developmental age. Some young people present both as hyperactive and inattentive. Others may have more signs of one or the other set of symptoms. Diagnosis helps the child, parents, educators, and other caregivers understand what a child needs to be successful in all aspects of their lives.
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Parents often hesitate to bring their children in for ADHD testing because they think inattentiveness or hyperactivity are just signs that their child is being a child. In some cases, this is true, but ADHD diagnostic testing is designed to ensure a thorough and accurate analysis of a child’s ability to maintain attention and control impulses. These assessments are performed by trained professionals who really understand the difference between a child having fun versus a child who is genuinely struggling. Individualized assessments are designed to understand how the child is functioning rather than just providing a diagnosis.
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Inattentiveness or struggling to concentrate for long periods
Being easily distracted
Failing to complete tasks
Academic difficulties
Behavioral issues
Excessive energy or seeming unable to sit still
Not taking turns at play
Interrupting others who are talking
Not listening
Forgetting what they’re doing
Seeming disorganized or cluttered
Struggling to manage impulses
Unable to prioritize tasks effectively
Poor time management skills
How Is ADHD Diagnosed?
At Webb Psychological Services, we strive to make ADHD assessments clear, supportive, and easy to navigate. We want parents to feel confident and involved, partnering with us to help their children feel prepared and comfortable throughout the process. Here’s an overview of the steps:
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You can book a free, no-obligation introductory phone call with Dr. Webb directly on our website, or if you prefer, submit a contact form and we’ll help you schedule a time.
During this brief, 15-minute conversation, we’ll hear about your child, answer any questions you may have, and explore whether a comprehensive evaluation is the right fit for your family.
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We’ll start with a virtual parent intake interview, usually lasting about 60–90 minutes. During this time, we’ll talk with you about your child’s history, your questions and concerns, and what you hope to gain from the evaluation. When it’s helpful, your child can join part of this conversation, so we can hear their perspective too.
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In almost all cases assessments are scheduled over two separate sessions, during which your child will complete a variety of learning, thinking, and problem-solving activities. Because each evaluation is completely individualized, exact timing can vary, but total testing time is usually about 5–7 hours. We move at a pace that feels comfortable so your child can do their best—slowing down and taking breaks as needed.
Caregivers and teachers will also receive questionnaires to help us see your child’s strengths and challenges from multiple perspectives.
If you’d like support getting your child ready for testing, we can talk you through simple preparation tips, or you can read our recommendations here.
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After your child’s evaluation is complete we carefully review everything we’ve gathered—their assessment results, school records (such as IEPs, 504 plans, teacher feedback, and grade reports), any counseling notes, and relevant medical information.
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About four weeks after your child’s evaluation, we’ll meet with you for a feedback appointment to review findings, diagnoses, and any recommendations. Within 48 hours, you’ll then receive a detailed written report that you can use at home or share with your child’s school if relevant.
For teens and young adults, we may also schedule a brief 30-min individual session to present the findings in a more age appropriate manner and answer any questions your child might have.
Easily Schedule ADHD Testing
We know how busy life can be, and getting the support your child needs shouldn’t add stress. That’s why we’ve made scheduling an ADHD evaluation simple and convenient for families in Greater Vancouver and Portland. Use our online self-scheduler to check availability and book your free phone consultation today. Prefer to connect directly? Call us at (360) 328-7880 or email hello@webbpsychological.com. We look forward to hearing from you!