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Disability Resources and Services

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.

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Disability Resources and Services

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  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. Option 1 Obtain a comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation.

  5. 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

  6. 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.

  7. How do I go about obtaining a neuropsychological evaluation? • Contact your PCP or medical insurance company for a list of psychologists who are trained to perform neuropsychological testing in your coverage area. • 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. • Contact a disability office of a college or university in your home town for a list of area neuropsychologists. • Contact the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for your home State State Vocational Rehabilitation Agencies.

  8. 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.

  9. 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.

  10. 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.

  11. 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.

  12. 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.

  13. 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.

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