Evaluation & diagnosis
Adult ADHD Evaluation & Diagnosis
A careful psychiatric evaluation that answers two questions: is this ADHD, and if not, or not only, what else is going on?
Why a proper evaluation matters
There is no single test, scan or questionnaire that diagnoses ADHD. A diagnosis depends on a clinician understanding your symptoms, how long you have had them, and how much they affect your work, relationships and responsibilities.
Getting this right matters in both directions. Anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, long-term stress, and the effects of alcohol or other substances can all cause poor concentration and disorganization. ADHD can also exist alongside one or more of them. An accurate diagnosis is what makes the treatment that follows make sense.
What the evaluation covers
Your current symptoms
Attention, organization, time management, restlessness and impulsivity, and where they show up in your day.
Your history
Childhood and school history, since ADHD symptoms begin before adulthood, plus work and relationship history.
Your health
Medical history, current medications, sleep, substance use, and any past mental health diagnoses or treatment.
Other explanations
Whether anxiety, depression, stress, sleep problems or another condition better explains your symptoms, or exists alongside ADHD.
Diagnosis and next steps
What the evaluation found, what it means, and the treatment options that fit your situation.
How to prepare
- A list of the difficulties that brought you in, with a few concrete examples
- Any earlier evaluations, school reports or records from other clinicians
- A list of your current medications and doses, including supplements
- Your medical history, including heart problems and blood pressure
- If possible, input from someone who knew you as a child or knows you well now
In person or by video?
Whether your first evaluation is in person or by secure video depends on the practice's current scheduling. Ask when you book. Call (212) 265-4310.
See appointments & telehealth for who can be seen and where you need to be for a video visit.
Questions about the evaluation
How long does an adult ADHD evaluation take?
It depends on your history and how much there is to cover. Ask the office when you schedule, and allow enough uninterrupted time for a thorough conversation.
Do I need a referral?
Ask the office when you call. If you have seen other clinicians before, their records and any earlier test results are helpful to bring.
I was diagnosed as a child. Do I need to be evaluated again?
A new psychiatrist will want to understand how your symptoms look now, what treatment you have had and how it worked. Earlier records help, but care decisions are based on a current evaluation.
What if it turns out not to be ADHD?
That is useful to know. An evaluation that points to anxiety, depression, a sleep problem or something else gives you a clearer next step than continuing to guess.
After the evaluation: adult ADHD treatment & medication management.
Schedule an adult ADHD evaluation
Call the office to ask about availability and to schedule your first appointment. Hours are by appointment only.