How to test for ADHD

[Anonymous]

I suspect that my soon to turn 5 year old has ADHD inattentive type. We had an appointment with a dev ped a year ago when he got tested for autism and that was ruled out. She asked us to follow up with a behavioral person to address his quirks then. We hadn't suspected ADHD then. My question is how do we get him evaluated for ADHD. Do we go back to the dev ped in KKI or do we go to the behavioral specialist or somebody else all together. Also o would like for him to get a neuropsychology done once he turns 6. Can we try to get an appt in KKI for this now since we know it will take a long time or does that need a dev ped referral. Thank you for the help.

[Anonymous]

My kid was diagnosed at 4 by a developmental pediatrician. You may want to wait until 6 and do a neuropsych evaluation.

[Anonymous]

Thanks. Is there any benefit in visiting a behaviorist now or wait for diagnosis. We will schedule an appointment back with the dev ped then. My understanding about ADHD is that it is not an objective assessment unlike asd. And irrespective of the results I think we will wait on medicating him at least for a year when he starts kindergarten. This will really just help us understand him better and work with him.

[Anonymous]

What are his most difficult issues?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Thanks. Is there any benefit in visiting a behaviorist now or wait for diagnosis. We will schedule an appointment back with the dev ped then. My understanding about ADHD is that it is not an objective assessment unlike asd. And irrespective of the results I think we will wait on medicating him at least for a year when he starts kindergarten. This will really just help us understand him better and work with him.

If he actually has ADHD then he ought to he exhibiting behaviors that significantly interfere with his life. So I'd expect you would definitely be seeking out behavioral treatment now.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Thanks. Is there any benefit in visiting a behaviorist now or wait for diagnosis. We will schedule an appointment back with the dev ped then. My understanding about ADHD is that it is not an objective assessment unlike asd. And irrespective of the results I think we will wait on medicating him at least for a year when he starts kindergarten. This will really just help us understand him better and work with him.

You don't start with medication for mild-moderate ADHD. you start with behavioral therapy. also unclear on what you mean here, but you won't get any medications if there is no diagnosis.

[Anonymous]

I guess my question is not understood. I suspect my 5 year old has ADHD. I want a diagnosis to confirm. Who should I go to?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I guess my question is not understood. I suspect my 5 year old has ADHD. I want a diagnosis to confirm. Who should I go to?

A developmental pediatrician or a neuropsychologist.