Online ADHD Evaluation for Children and Teens in Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Arizona

What ADHD can look like in children and teens

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a developmental condition marked by a lasting pattern of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. The National Institute of Mental Health explains that some people mostly have trouble with attention, some are mostly hyperactive and impulsive, and some have both. Its examples include:

• Inattention: frequent difficulty paying attention to details, listening when spoken to directly, following instructions, and keeping track of things such as backpacks and books
• Hyperactivity: often fidgeting or squirming while seated, moving around when expected to stay seated, and talking excessively
• Impulsivity: often answering before a question is finished, struggling to wait, and interrupting conversations or games

Why an evaluation looks at home and school

The CDC states that there is no single test to diagnose ADHD. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, for a diagnosis the symptoms must have begun before age 12, lasted at least 6 months, be present in two or more settings, such as at home, in school or with friends, and interfere with social or school functioning. The CDC adds that the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends asking parents, teachers and other adults who care for the child about behavior in different settings.

That is why you take part. During an evaluation, the National Institute of Mental Health says, a provider usually:

• Reviews mental health and medical history
• Looks at current behavior and school experiences, and may ask your permission to talk with teachers and others who know your child well
• Uses standardized behavior rating scales or symptom checklists
• May use tests of thinking skills, such as working memory or reasoning, which can help identify or rule out a possible learning disability

What an evaluation can and cannot tell you

We cannot tell you ahead of time what an evaluation will find. The CDC notes that sleep disorders, anxiety, depression and certain types of learning disabilities can have symptoms similar to ADHD. An evaluation may conclude that your child has ADHD, that something else better explains what you have noticed, or that more than one thing is going on.

An evaluation does not come with a prescription. Locascio Wellness does not prescribe medication, and decisions about medication belong to your child's prescriber or pediatrician. We cannot say whether a prescriber will accept a report, so ask them what they need before you book.

The same goes for a school. The National Institute of Mental Health notes that schools may provide accommodations through a 504 Plan or, for children who qualify for special education services, an Individualized Education Plan (IEP). Those decisions belong to the school, and we cannot promise that a school will accept a report.

If your questions are more about social communication or routines, see our child autism evaluation page. Adults can read our adult ADHD evaluation page.

How it works by video, with a parent taking part

The evaluation is carried out entirely by secure video. A parent or guardian arranges it and takes part. You need a phone, tablet or computer, an internet connection and a quiet, private place. Your child must be physically located in Pennsylvania, West Virginia or Arizona during appointments.

The National Institute of Mental Health lists a mental health assessment and diagnosis among the services that can be provided virtually. ADHD is one of several psychological evaluations we offer this way.

An evaluation usually involves an intake appointment, then one or two sessions to complete the evaluation, then time for the written report. At the moment, the written report is usually ready about a month after the first evaluation appointment. If you have a deadline, say so on the request form.

An evaluation is not emergency care. If your child is in crisis or you are worried about their safety, call or text 988, or call 911. Locascio Wellness does not provide emergency or crisis services.

Cost and getting started

Evaluations are private-pay and are not billed to insurance. The cost depends on what your child's evaluation involves, and a sliding scale is available. Our page on what evaluations cost explains more.

1. 1Send a short requestThe quickest way to ask is our short evaluation request form. Tell us your child's age on the request form. We reply to set up a free 15-minute consultation.
2. 2Talk it throughYou can also choose a consultation time on our booking page, or call 267-573-9817. We talk about what you have noticed, who is asking for the evaluation and any deadline.
3. 3Get the cost in writingBefore anything is scheduled, you receive the cost in writing. You have the right to a Good Faith Estimate. See insurance and fees for how payment works.
4. 4Meet by video and review the findingsThe findings are explained to you in plain language, with time for your questions, and you receive a written report.

After the evaluation

Whatever the evaluation finds, you leave with a clearer picture of how your child's attention works.

The National Institute of Mental Health says that for children, treatment for ADHD often includes parent education and school-based programs, and that therapy for children and teens requires parents to play an active role. Therapists on our team work with children, teens and families, as our ADHD therapy page explains. Therapy is a separate service from an evaluation, and it is always your choice.