ADHD Evaluations
Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a disorder first noted in childhood and characterized by inattention, impulse control problems and hyperactivity. Children and adults with ADHD are susceptible to distraction, often have difficulty sitting still (especially in school when sitting still is expected), and have difficulty concentrating and sustaining attention.
Treatment for ADHD often starts with the completion of a psychological evaluation. Physicians and Pediatricians refer children and adolescents to psychologists in order to determine if symptoms typically associated with ADHD significantly interfere with the child or adolescents daily functioning. The psychologist will then make recommendations regarding further treatment. Recommendations may include individual therapy for the child or adolescent, parent education and support and the use of medications to treat some symptoms of ADHD.
APT, Inc. has several psychologists experienced in the psychological assessments of children and adolescents suspected of having ADHD. Penny O. Perdue, M.A. is a Licensed School Psychologist with experience in the intellectual, academic and socio-emotional assessment of children, adolescents and teens. Rachel Arthur, M.A. also has experience performing psychological assessments of children, adolescents and tens. She is also interested in providing therapeutic and educational support to parents of children and adolescents diagnosed with ADHD.
Therapy & Counseling for Children, Adolescents and Teens diagnosed with ADHD:
Individual therapy and counseling for children with ADHD often includes teaching the child better organizational skills and study skills, identifying feelings, learning how to better control impulses and learning relaxation techniques. Some children and adolescents diagnosed with ADHD experience low self esteem, peer alienation and behavioral problems. Therapy and Counseling can also address these other issues.
Parenting Support and Education:
Parents of children and adolescents diagnosed with ADHD often experience stress and may have difficulty dealing with their child's symptoms and behaviors. Psychologists can provide consults with parents to offer support and education. APT utilizes a comprehensive parenting education program that teaches the parent effective discipline techniques and strategies to improve their child's behavior and build stronger relationships between parents and children or adolescents.
Physicians and Pediatricians often rely on psychological evaluations with a psychologist's recommendations to determine if medication to treat symptoms of ADHD is needed.