Updated
Who ADHD testing is for
An ADHD evaluation can help when attention, focus, organization, or impulsivity keep getting in the way at school, at work, or at home, and you want to understand why. We test children age 6 and up, teens, and adults.
The American Psychological Association describes psychological assessment as gathering and integrating information to evaluate a person's behavior, abilities, and other characteristics. In practice, that means a clear answer about whether ADHD is present, what else may be going on, and what to do next.
What happens during an ADHD evaluation
- Initial appointment. About an hour with a psychologist to talk through concerns and history, and to choose the right tests.
- Questionnaires. You complete forms in our secure portal. For school-age children, we also send a standard questionnaire to 2 or 3 educators.
- Testing. Usually 2 to 6 hours in person, sometimes split over two days so fatigue doesn't skew the results.
- Report. Your psychologist scores and reviews everything and writes a full report.
- Feedback session. We go over the results, the diagnosis if there is one, and specific recommendations.
ADHD only, or ADHD plus learning?
Attention problems and learning disorders often look alike, and they often occur together. If the evaluation is for school accommodations, many schools prefer a combined ADHD and learning disorder evaluation because it is more comprehensive. A combined evaluation also costs less than two separate ones.
| Evaluation | Answers | Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| ADHD | Is ADHD present, and what else might explain the symptoms? | Often covered, depending on plan |
| Learning disorder | Is there a specific learning disorder in reading, writing, math, or oral expression? | Not covered by medical insurance |
| Combined ADHD and learning | Both, in one evaluation, which is what many schools prefer | ADHD portion often covered. We'll give you a Good Faith Estimate for the rest. |
How long it takes
Plan on 4 to 6 weeks from first appointment to final report. If you have a school or testing-agency deadline, tell us when you call so we can plan around it.
Cost and insurance
Without insurance, the base cost of an ADHD evaluation is $2,040, and adding learning disorder testing adds $1,705. Final cost may be lower or higher depending on the testing you need. Many plans cover ADHD evaluations. We work with HMAA, HMSA, Medicare, PSWA, UHA, UHC, and some Tricare plans. Some plans need a referral from your doctor, so check your plan's requirements, deductible, and co-pay.
Learning disorder testing isn't covered by medical insurance. If you'll be paying out of pocket, ask us for a Good Faith Estimate under the No Surprises Act.
How to prepare
- Complete the portal forms and questionnaires before your first visit. The report can't be finished until every questionnaire is in.
- Gather report cards, past evaluations, and any school plans (IEP or 504) you have.
- Have educators' email addresses ready for school-age evaluations.
- Bring glasses or hearing aids if they're used day to day.
- For a child, at least one responsible adult must stay on site during testing.
After the evaluation
You decide who receives the report by signing a release of information, for example your child's doctor or school. If ADHD is diagnosed, our clinicians offer therapy and parent training. Medication is prescribed by a physician or psychiatrist, not a psychologist, and your report can help guide that conversation.
Common questions
How long does ADHD testing take?
Plan on 4 to 6 weeks from the first appointment to the final report. That includes a one-hour intake, usually 2 to 6 hours of testing (sometimes split over two days), report writing, and a feedback session.
Does insurance cover ADHD testing in Hawaii?
Often, yes, depending on your plan. We work with HMAA, HMSA, Medicare, PSWA, UHA, UHC, and some Tricare plans. Some plans require a referral from your doctor. Learning disorder testing is not covered by medical insurance.
What age can my child be tested for ADHD?
We evaluate children age 6 and up, as well as adults.
Can an ADHD evaluation be used for school accommodations?
Schools use evaluation reports to decide on accommodations. Many prefer a combined ADHD and learning disorder evaluation because it is more comprehensive, and it costs less than two separate evaluations. Check with your school to confirm what they need.
Do you prescribe ADHD medication?
No. Our psychologists diagnose and treat ADHD through therapy and parent training. If medication may help, your report can be shared with your physician or a psychiatrist, who can prescribe.