How Do I Get My Child Tested For ADHD
It’s common for parents to wonder whether their child’s difficulties with attention, behavior, or emotional regulation might be signs of something more than a phase. Maybe your child’s teacher has expressed concerns about focus in the classroom, or you’ve noticed they’re struggling to stay organized, follow directions, or manage impulsive behavior at home. When these challenges start to affect school performance, social life, or self-esteem, it may be time to explore whether ADHD is a contributing factor.
Getting your child evaluated for ADHD is a multi-step process that involves gathering information, ruling out other explanations, and gaining a clear picture of your child’s strengths and challenges. While it may feel overwhelming at first, understanding what to expect can help you take the next step with more confidence.
1: Talk to Someone Who Knows Your Child Well
Before seeking formal testing, it’s often helpful to speak with someone who regularly interacts with your child, such as a teacher, school counselor, or pediatrician. Teachers can offer valuable insight about how your child functions in a structured environment and how their behavior compares to peers. Pediatricians are often the first professionals families speak to when developmental or behavioral concerns arise. They may screen for symptoms and, in some cases, provide referrals for a full evaluation.
2: Find a Qualified Assessment Provider
A formal ADHD evaluation should be conducted by a licensed professional trained in psychological or neurodevelopmental assessment. This could be a psychologist, neuropsychologist, or psychiatrist. Some therapy practices also offer comprehensive testing services that assess attention, executive functioning, learning, and emotional health. If your child’s school provides evaluations, you may also be able to request an assessment through the special education process. However, school evaluations typically focus on educational impact and may not provide a medical diagnosis.
Learn more about the benefits of a comprehensive evaluation for ADHD.
3: The Evaluation Process
An ADHD evaluation usually involves multiple components to ensure accuracy. These may include:
Clinical interviews with the parent and child to gather developmental and behavioral history
Behavior rating scales completed by both parents and teachers
Standardized tests that assess attention, memory, and executive functioning
Observation of the child’s behavior in different contexts, when possible
The goal is not only to determine whether your child meets criteria for ADHD, but also to identify any co-occurring issues such as anxiety, learning differences, or mood concerns. This comprehensive approach helps ensure that any treatment plan is tailored to your child’s unique needs.
4: Review of Results and Next Steps
Once testing is complete, the evaluator will meet with you to explain the findings and discuss recommendations. If ADHD is diagnosed, you’ll receive information about support strategies, therapy options, school accommodations (such as a 504 Plan or IEP), and, if appropriate, a referral to a pediatrician or psychiatrist to discuss medication.
If ADHD is not diagnosed, the assessment may still reveal useful information about your child’s learning style, emotional development, or other factors contributing to their difficulties. Either way, the evaluation provides a roadmap for helping your child thrive.
Why Early Evaluation Matters
Untreated ADHD can affect more than academic performance. It can also lead to frustration, low self-esteem, and challenges in peer relationships. Early identification allows parents and educators to put the right supports in place, which can make a significant difference in your child’s long-term well-being.
If you're starting to question whether your child’s struggles might be related to ADHD, a professional evaluation is the most reliable way to get answers. With the right information, you can make informed decisions about how best to support your child—both now and in the future.
At Park West Psychology in New York City, we offer comprehensive ADHD assessments for children and adults. Reach out today to schedule a free consultation.