Disability Resources and Services
The following information will assist you in
understanding the diagnostic procedures
necessary to be evaluated for an Attention
Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
Information
Please be advised that the University of Pittsburgh
Office of Disability Resources and Services, the
University Counseling Center and Student Health
Services DO NOT provide evaluations for ADHD.
You, in consultation with your physician, will have
to determine if proceeding with an evaluation is
needed for you at this time.
Information
There is no one test or specific combination of
tests for determining ADHD. An accurate
diagnosis requires a multifaceted approach.
This can be completed by a variety of
professionals with experience and expertise in
diagnosing ADHD.
The following tutorial will help you
understand the various options that exists for
obtaining a evaluation for ADHD.
Option 1
Obtain a comprehensive neuropsychological
evaluation.
What is a Neuropsychological Evaluation?
• A neuropsychological evaluation is a comprehensive assessment of
cognitive and behavioral functions using a set of standardized tests
and procedures. Various mental functions are systematically tested,
including, but not limited to:
• Intelligence
• Problem solving and conceptualization
• Planning and organization
• Attention, memory, and learning
• Language
• Academic skills
• Perceptual and motor abilities
• Emotions, behavior, and personality
Why should I have these
functions evaluated?
This is the most accurate way to obtain a
“blue print” of how you learn and process
information. Your blueprint will be
compared to others to determine if there
is a deficit.
How do I go about obtaining a
neuropsychological evaluation?
1. Contact your PCP or medical insurance company for a list of
psychologists who are trained to perform
neuropsychological testing in your coverage area.
2. Contact Disability Resources and Services for a list of
neuropsychologists who are accepting new patients in
Pittsburgh. E-mail drsrecep@pitt.edu to request a referral
list.
3. Contact a disability office of a college or university in your
home town for a list of area neuropsychologists.
4. Contact the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for your
home State State Vocational Rehabilitation Agencies.
What can I expect if I do decide to get a
neuropsychological evaluation?
• An out of pocket expense. Comprehensive examinations can
costs upwards of $1500.00 and insurance is typically not
accepted.
• An accurate determination if you do or do not have ADHD.
Option 2
Contact your PCP or medical insurance company for a list of
psychiatrists or other experienced clinicians who have a clinical
training in diagnosing adult ADHD.
What can I expect if I go to see a psychiatrists or
other clinical expert ?
• ADHD cannot be diagnosed accurately just from brief
office observations, or just by talking to the person.
– Typically the patient will be required to complete a set of
questionnaires these include ADHD symptom checklists and
standardized behavior rating scales,
– The clinician will gather a detailed history of past and current
functioning, and should obtain information from family members
or significant others who know you well.
– The clinician will then analyze the information and determine if you
have enough of the DSM-IV-TR symptoms to indicate the presence
of ADHD.
CAUTION
There are many Internet sites about ADHD that
offer various types of questionnaires and lists of
symptoms. These questionnaires are not
standardized or scientifically validated and
should never be used to self-diagnose or to
diagnose others with ADHD. A valid diagnosis
can only be provided by a qualified professional.
I have obtained an ADHD diagnosis,
now what?
• You should consult with the clinician who
diagnosed you to discuss your treatment
options.
• Individuals requesting reasonable
accommodations for academic courses should
contact DRS (412.648.7890) to schedule an
intake appointment with a disability specialist.
I still have questions
• If after reviewing this presentation you still
have questions regarding obtaining an
evaluation for ADHD please e-mail your
questions to:
Ms. Leigh Culley, Coordinator of Services, Disability Resources
and Services @ lculley@pitt.edu.