06/17/2026
Understanding the ADHD Path
Subject: Struggling to stay on track? Let’s find out why.
We’ve all been there—staring at a to-do list that feels like a mountain, or losing your keys for the third time in a morning. But when forgetfulness, distraction, or overwhelm begin to impact your work, relationships, or mental health, it’s natural to wonder: Is this ADHD?
What an ADHD Diagnostic Evaluation Looks Like With Me:
As a PMHNP, I diagnose ADHD through comprehensive clinical diagnostic assessments. This is not a “pass/fail” test. It is a structured process designed to understand how your brain functions in real life.
The Power of Your Story
We begin with a deep-dive clinical interview. We explore your history from childhood to present day to identify long-standing patterns that standardized testing alone may not capture.
Evidence-Based Tools
I use validated ADHD rating scales to help measure symptom frequency and intensity compared to clinical benchmarks.
For children and adolescents, this often includes:
Parent rating scales
Teacher feedback when available
A Holistic Clinical View
ADHD symptoms can overlap with anxiety, trauma, sleep disruption, stress, and mood concerns. Part of the evaluation is carefully distinguishing what is driving the symptoms so we are treating the right condition.
When Additional Testing Is Needed
While I diagnose ADHD clinically, I do not provide formal neuropsychological or psychological testing.
In some cases—when symptoms are unclear, overlapping, or further clarification is needed—I may recommend formal psychological testing with a specialist before starting certain treatments, including controlled medications when appropriate.
Patients are always welcome to return with those results so we can continue care together.
Why Start Here?
Many people assume they need to wait months for testing before starting care. In most cases, a thorough clinical evaluation is the appropriate first step.
This approach helps us move from:
“I don’t know what’s going on” → “Here’s a clear plan forward.”
You don’t need all the answers before you begin.
That’s what I’m here for—helping bring clarity, structure, and direction to your next step.
