MNS ADHD/Specific Learning Disability Testing Policy for Adolescents 12-17 years old
Madison Neuropsychological Services, LLC is dedicated to providing comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations for patients across the lifespan in an effort to seek diagnostic clarification and inform treatment recommendations. We value each person as a unique individual and tailor our assessment sessions to meet the needs of each patient. We aim to provide compassionate and prompt services to patients, their families/caregivers, and referring providers.
Disorders of attention, including ADHD, are considered to be developmental in nature. This means that areas of difficulty must appear PRIOR to age 12 in order to meet the medical criteria for ADHD. At MNS, we do realize however, that there are many individuals that never received a diagnosis during childhood or were misdiagnosed with another disorder. While assessment for ADHD is possible during adolescence, it can be challenging to provide an accurate assessment of symptoms (such as inattention, poor focus, difficulties reading/writing, etc.).
In order to provide thorough and accurate neuropsychological evaluation, we ask that you kindly provide the following requested documents before we schedule your teen’s intake appointment.
Required documentation for an ADHD evaluation at MNS:
MD referral outlining the reason(s) to seek evaluation (from primary care physician or psychiatrist).
Elementary school and middle school report cards, highlighting areas of concern.
If patient is 18 years or older, he/she MUST consent parent/guardian involvement for the evaluation (this includes the parent completion of developmental questionnaire and rating scales).
Additional sources of helpful (but not required) information may include:
o Childhood medical/mental health records documenting the areas of concern.
o Records from CURRENT mental health providers (therapists/psychiatric medication providerso Written performance reviews from current/prior employers(documented employment concerns must occur for 6 or more months).
Without documentation via school records (prior to age 12), we are not able to appropriately evaluate for ADHD. However, comprehensive neuropsychological assessment can still be useful for identifying personal strengths and weaknesses. Recommendations for mental health/medical interventions and helpful strategies for improving attention/focus are also included in the evaluation report.
We appreciate your understanding of our MNS ADHD Evaluation Policy. Please contact Dr. Sarah Porter (MNS Owner) with any questions regarding this policy.