How to Know, What to Expect, and Which Testing Path Is Right for You
You’ve always managed to “make it work”—even when focus slipped, time vanished, or small tasks felt overwhelming. But if you’re constantly losing track of things, zoning out, or feeling like your brain is out of sync with your goals, you might be asking a question that’s long overdue: Could this be ADHD? You’re not alone. Millions of adults are discovering that ADHD doesn’t end in childhood—and that it’s not just about attention. For many, it’s about executive function, emotional regulation, and memory, all deeply impacted by undiagnosed ADHD. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I help adults find clarity and personalized treatment using validated tools—without unnecessary delays or expensive testing routes. Here’s what that looks like.
Step 1: ASRS – The Fast, Evidence-Based ADHD Screener
We begin with the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS v1.1), a 6-question screener developed by the World Health Organization. It’s clinically validated, quick to complete, and helps pinpoint the hallmark symptoms of adult ADHD.
Why ASRS?
– Fast (5 minutes)
– Free
– Research-backed
– Easy to interpret
– Strong sensitivity for inattentive and combined types
It’s often the first moment clients realize: “Wow—this might actually explain so much.”
Step 2: Full Psychiatric Intake – Where Diagnosis Happens
If your ASRS screening suggests possible ADHD—or you’re experiencing persistent symptoms—we move into a comprehensive psychiatric intake designed to provide a diagnosis (if appropriate), as well as next steps for support or treatment.
What we cover:
– Childhood history and current function
– Focus, memory, organization, impulsivity, emotion regulation
– Rule-outs for depression, trauma, anxiety, or sleep issues
– Lifestyle and hormonal factors that mimic ADHD
– Collaborative discussion of medication, supplements, therapy, or coaching
Unlike rushed primary care appointments or generic mental health screenings, this is an in-depth session tailored to your life and brain—not a checklist.
How My Process Compares to Other Testing Options
Not all ADHD evaluations are created equal. Here’s a side-by-side comparison of what different paths offer—and when they might be right for you.
| Goal | Best Option |
|---|---|
| Quick symptom insight | ASRS (free, fast self-assessment) |
| Diagnosis + medication evaluation | Psychiatric intake with PMHNP (what I offer) |
| Therapy + ADHD treatment plan | Licensed psychologist or therapist |
| Legal/workplace accommodations | Neuropsychological testing (full battery) |
| ADHD vs. anxiety or depression | Psychiatric evaluation with full history review |
When Is Neuropsychological Testing Worth It?
Some clients benefit from formal neuropsychological testing, particularly if they:
– Need documentation for workplace or academic accommodations
– Have complex presentations (e.g., head injury, learning disability, cognitive decline)
– Aren’t getting clear answers from standard intake evaluations
But it’s not always necessary—and here’s the key difference:
Psychiatric intake:
– 60–90 minutes
– Direct access to diagnosis + treatment
– Typically $250–$500
Neuropsychological testing:
– 4–6 hours + report writing
– Costs $1,500–$4,000
– May take weeks or months to schedule
– Often overkill for straightforward adult ADHD
For most high-functioning adults wondering, “Why can’t I just focus?” — a validated screener + clinical intake is the fastest, most efficient way to clarity.
What Happens When You Work With Me?
- You complete the ASRS screener
- We meet for a 1:1 psychiatric intake
- You walk away with a diagnosis (if criteria are met), personalized treatment options, and next steps tailored to your goals
Whether that includes medication, functional strategies, therapy referrals, or targeted supplements—we’ll build a plan around what works for you.
✅ Ready to Get Clarity?
I help adults with fast minds and scattered lives finally understand their brains—and get back in control. If you’re tired of guessing and ready for a guided, research-based evaluation, I’m here to help.
👉 Start with the free ASRS screener
👉 Book your ADHD evaluation session
👉 Have questions? Schedule a discovery call
Let’s take the guesswork out of your diagnosis—and put the power back in your hands.
