Children with ADHD often need medication, as determined by your pediatrician, that may assist them in improving concentration and attention. Children misdiagnosed with ADHD may be needlessly taking medication that may not help them as intended. A comprehensive approach to diagnosis is always the best way to determine whether your child has ADHD or determining that their symptoms may be due to another cause.
Brian Hudspeth MA, LPC, LCDC, SAP offers a state of the art objective test to assist in the diagnosis of ADHD.
TOVA (Test of Variables of Attention)
The Test of Variables of Attention or TOVA is a computerized assessment. The T.O.V.A. objectively measures the key components of attention and self-control, variability (consistency), response time (speed), commissions (impulsivity), and omissions (focus and vigilance). The T.O.V.A. provides information that is not available through self-report or the report of others. It can be used along with subjective measures for a more comprehensive picture of academic, social, and personal performance.
Assessment Process
You or your child’s assessment will consist of several parts. All patients will minimally be minimally assessed by at least two of the following:
- Teacher Evaluation for ADHD
- Parent Evaluation for ADHD.
- TOVA (Test of Variables of Attention)
- Comprehensive Clinical Evaluation consisting of written or oral assessment of the patient and clinician observation.
Based on the aforementioned items an initial diagnosis will be made. In many cases one of the following objective tests may be recommended:
- M-PACI (Millon Pre-Adolescent Clinical Inventory)
- MACI (Millon Adolescent Clinical Inventory)
- Millon or MMPI for adults.