ADHD Assessment
The ADHD assessment can be used to expedite access to accommodations in the school setting, to complement a psychiatric consultation, or to detail specific functional deficits to enhance intervention.
As there is no definitive 'test' for ADHD, a proper assessment incorporates a variety of resources detailing the historical and current symptom presentation. The evaluation is based upon the guidelines developed by Dr. Russell Barkley, a recognized authority on the assessment and diagnosis of ADHD. Midwest Neurofitness is unique in the integration of the TOVA (Test of Variables of Attention) and the Mini-Map. These are objective measures of function and neurological activity respectively.
The components of the assessment include:
1. Psychodiagnostic interview; client and parents. When
evaluating aults if parents are not available for interview they
can provide information via a historical narrative form. The
form elicits information regarding observed childhood
behavior, socialization, school performance, etc.
2. Symptom checklists.Examines current and historical
symptom presentation via structured form.
3. Review of records.Review of grade cards, prior assessments,
and relevant medical documentation.
4. Test of Variables of Attention (TOVA). The TOVA is a
computer based continuous performance task evaluating
attention/concentration, impulsivity, processing speed, and
variability of processing speed.
5. EEG Mini-Map. Developed by Dr. Paul Swingle, the
Mini-Map is a limited analysis of EEG data examining specfic
sites and frequency distributions associated with the
presentation of ADHD symptoms.
Although the information provided by the TOVA and the Mini-Map can be very valuable in the assessment process, the diagnostic criteria of ADHD is limited to observed or self-reported behavior. Consequently the use of the QEEG for ADHD assessment is not typically utilized unless the intent is to follow with neurofeedback.
After the information is gathered and reviewed a report is generated including diagnostic impression and recommendations for treatment/management of symptoms. The report is reviewed with the client/parents and recommendations are discussed.
