ADHD Testing: Understanding the Steps for Kids vs. Adults

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects both children and adults, but the signs and testing process can look very different depending on age. Whether you’re a parent concerned about your child’s focus in school or an adult wondering if long-standing struggles with organization and attention could be ADHD, a thorough evaluation is the first step toward clarity and support. At Willow Wellness, we specialize in compassionate, detailed assessments that help you or your loved one move forward with confidence.
 

Recognizing the Signs of ADHD

In Children:
ADHD symptoms in kids often appear in academic and social settings. Common signs include:
 

•          Difficulty staying focused in class or during homework

•          Frequent fidgeting, restlessness, or impulsivity

•          Trouble following instructions or completing tasks

•          Emotional outbursts or challenges with peer relationships
 

In Adults:
While some symptoms overlap with childhood ADHD, adults often experience them in more subtle ways, including:
 

•          Chronic disorganization and difficulty managing responsibilities

•          Forgetfulness and frequent distractions at work or home

•          Restlessness, difficulty relaxing, or a sense of being “on the go”

•          Struggles with time management, meeting deadlines, or maintaining relationships
 

Testing is recommended if these patterns cause significant difficulties in school, work, or daily life.
 

Steps in an ADHD Evaluation Process

An ADHD evaluation is a comprehensive process designed to paint a full picture of each individual. At Willow Wellness, we take a personalized approach that looks at multiple layers of a person’s life.
 

The evaluation often begins with in-depth conversations. For children, this means gathering insights from parents, teachers, and caregivers to understand how symptoms appear across different settings. For adults, the discussion centers on personal history, current struggles, and the ways attention-related challenges impact daily routines.
 

Next, we incorporate standardized questionnaires and rating scales. These tools provide measurable data on levels of inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity, helping us see how symptoms compare across environments.
 

We also use behavioral observations. Children may be observed during play or structured activities that mimic school settings, while adults might complete tasks that highlight focus, memory, and organizational abilities.
 

A thorough evaluation also considers medical and family history, since ADHD can have genetic links. By understanding past health and family patterns, we can better identify contributing factors.
 

Finally, we take care to rule out other possible conditions, such as anxiety, depression, or learning difficulties, ensuring that the diagnosis is accurate and nothing important is overlooked.
 

Supporting Adults Who May Not Meet ADHD Criteria

It’s important to note that not every adult who experiences difficulties with attention, organization, or focus will meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD. This is particularly true if symptoms were not present before age 18. For these individuals, we use our assessment process to provide a baseline evaluation of current symptoms.
 

If indicated, we may then recommend a referral to neuropsychology for a neuropsychological assessment. This more extensive, three-part process provides deeper insight into cognitive and behavioral patterns, ensuring that clients who may not meet the in-office ADHD criteria still receive valuable information and support.
 

How Willow Wellness Supports You

Our team takes the time to ensure every evaluation is thorough, accurate, and compassionate. For children, we work closely with families to provide helpful feedback and actionable recommendations. For adults, we emphasize understanding lifelong patterns and offering strategies that fit both personal and professional life. Every individual’s journey is unique, and our goal is to provide clarity and a personalized plan for treatment and support.
 

Start Your Path to Better Focus and Well-Being

ADHD testing looks different for kids and adults, but in both cases, it provides valuable insights that can improve school performance, career success, relationships, and overall well-being. If you’ve noticed persistent challenges that align with ADHD symptoms, taking the step toward evaluation can make a lasting difference.
 

Schedule an ADHD assessment with Willow Wellness to gain clarity and develop a tailored treatment plan. To speak with a member of our team, visit our office in Milton, Massachusetts, or call us at (617) 369-7136 to book an appointment today.