ADHD/ADD Assessment
No Long Wait Times
Fast ADHD assessments when every moment counts
Multidisciplinary Approach
Comprehensive evaluations by ADHD specialists
Free Liaison Services
Helping families navigate ADHD resources with ease
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Attention Deficit Hyper Activity Disorder (ADHD)?
Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition affecting a wide range of domains, from academic focus and task completion to emotional regulation and social well-being. At its core, ADHD can be understood as a deficiency in the brain's executive branch, which oversees critical human tasks. These tasks include, but are not limited to, organizing, prioritizing, maintaining and shifting focus, emotional and behavioral regulation, and short-term memory. Like other mental health disorders, ADHD presents a unique combination of challenges and strengths for each individual.
This highlights the importance of a comprehensive assessment, followed by a tailored treatment plan that takes into account the varying degrees of symptoms and severity, as well as the unique circumstances of each individual. Early, comprehensive assessment and diagnosis followed by targeted intervention are essential for optimizing long-term developmental outcomes and improving quality of life.
What is the difference between ADHD and ADD?
The terms Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) are often used interchangeably. It's worth noting that ADD is an older term that has largely been replaced by ADHD in medical and psychological literature, including the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), which is one of the main guides for diagnosing mental health conditions.
Is it difficult to diagnose ADHD?
Diagnosing Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) poses unique challenges due to the condition's varying manifestations across individuals and across lifespan. For instance, ADHD symptoms can differ considerably between a school-aged child and a 40-year-old adult. To address this complexity, an accurate diagnosis necessitates a thorough evaluation conducted by a multidisciplinary team of ADHD specialists, which may include psychiatrists, psychologists, and psychometricians.
At All Brains, our comprehensive ADHD assessment team encompasses experts from each of these fields. Our diagnostic approach employs an integrated set of techniques, which includes clinical interviews, developmental evaluations, medical and computerized testings, and standardized questionnaires.
Are there benefits to seeking an ADHD assessment as an adult?
While early assessment and intervention often lead to better outcomes, ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is generally lifelong. Because of this, assessment at any age can have significant professional and personal benefits. Getting diagnosed with ADHD as an adult can offer practical benefits, such as improving one’s relationships or applying for accommodations at university or one’s place of employment. Beyond these practical aspects, many adults express a sense of relief after receiving an ADHD assessment, as if a lifelong unanswered question has finally been answered.
How difficult is treatment of ADHD?
The treatment of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can be complex and varies from person to person, depending on a range of factors such as the specific symptoms experienced, severity of symptoms, degree of interference in functioning, co-existing conditions, age, and the individual's life circumstances. That said, ADHD is generally considered to be a treatable condition, and there are a variety of evidence-based approaches available.Here are some common treatment modalities:
- 1. Medication: Stimulant medications like methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and amphetamines (Adderall, Vyvanse) are often effective in treating the symptoms of ADHD. Non-stimulant medications like atomoxetine (Strattera) are also available. Medications can have side effects, and their effectiveness can vary among individuals.
- 2. Behavioral Therapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other forms of psychotherapy can help people with ADHD develop coping strategies and skills for organization and time management.
- 3. Parent Training: For children with ADHD, parent training in behavior management techniques can be useful.
- 4. Educational/work Support: Academic and workplace accommodations, like extended testing time or a quieter room for taking tests, as well as access to a work environment that has minimal distractions can help individuals with ADHD perform more optimally.
- 5. Lifestyle Changes: Diet, exercise, and sleep can also influence symptoms and can be areas for intervention.
- 6. Combination Treatment: Often, a multimodal approach that includes both medication and behavioral interventions is most effective.
With a comprehensive and individualized treatment plan that will be offered to you by our experts at All Brains Clinic, you can manage yours or your child’s symptoms effectively and lead a productive life. Early diagnosis and intervention, particularly in children, can improve long-term outcomes. It is important for individuals with ADHD and their families to work closely with healthcare providers to find the most effective treatment plan for them.
What does the ADHD assessment look like at All Brains Clinic?
At All Brains, we provide a comprehensive ADHD assessment that involves a multi-disciplinary team of experts. Our assessments include a thorough evaluation of any mental health problems (related or unrelated to ADHD) by a medical doctor, this is then followed by a targeted clinical ADHD interview session conducted by a psychologist. In a third session, a psychologist or psychometrist will conduct direct testing of your attention and other cognitive functions, such as working memory, which is the capacity to hold and process multiple pieces of information simultaneously.
The psychometrist will administer additional tests and questionnaires to identify potential academic and mental health issues. Responses from others, such as teachers or coworkers, if you grant us permission to send questionnaires to them, will help us obtain a comprehensive perspective of attention.
How is the ADHD assessment at All Brains different?
At All Brains, we specialize in ADHD, but our approach to assessment extends far beyond this specific condition. Our in-depth ADHD evaluation begins with a comprehensive mental health assessment conducted by a psychiatrist to identify any coexisting conditions such as anxiety, Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) to name a few. This initial assessment is followed by a focused consultation with a psychologist who delves into the history and symptoms of ADHD. Additionally, our evaluation employs real-time testing methods specifically designed to measure ADHD symptoms.
Our ADHD assessment package at All Brains also includes invaluable post-assessment support. For families with children under the age of 6, we provide a session of parent training to offer practical tips for effectively supporting their child. Furthermore, each client gains access to our coveted Resource Liaison service, which connects them with community-based support and resources uniquely tailored to meet their individual needs.
Does the ADHD assessment at All Brains include treatment plan/suggestions?
Absolutely! A comprehensive assessment of strengths and weaknesses is essential for creating a tailored treatment plan to meet your or your child's specific needs. These recommendations are thoroughly discussed during our feedback session and are also reflected in our detailed report. It's important to note that effective treatment for an individual with ADHD often depends on their unique needs and capabilities. A multidisciplinary approach that combines various interventions is typically the most beneficial.
How much does the ADHD assessment in Vancouver at All Brains cost?
The cost of comprehensive ADHD assessment is $1450, and it includes:
- Full Mental Health Assessment
- Medical Exam (if not performed recently)
- ADHD-specific Interview
- Computerized ADHD Assessments
- Intellectual Assessment
- Adaptive Behavior Assessment
- Feedback Session
- Resource Liaison Session
Why do I need a doctor’s referral for ADHD assessment at All Brains Clinic when other clinics don’t require it?
All of our assessments at All Brains are team-based. Specialized physicians such as psychiatrists are involved in all of our assessments, including the ADHD assessment. That is why a doctor’s referral is required. If you don’t have a referring doctor, please let our staff know. We can assist you in connecting with a primary care physician to see what assessment might be needed and, if necessary, making a referral. If you are not seeking an assessment but wish to proceed directly with therapy or coaching, a doctor’s referral is not required.
I don’t live in Vancouver, do I need to come to the city for the assessment?
No you don’t! Unlike some of our other assessments that require in-person sessions, all of the components of our comprehensive ADHD assessment can be done online.
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All Brains Clinic
6205 West Blvd,
Vancouver, BC V6M 3X4

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We are so thankful to get assessment done at All Brains Clinic for our boy.
Their location is perfect - easy to find parking and dining. It made our commute much easier especially driving all the way from lower mainland.

The people at All Brains Clinic helped us to understand our child's current situation and helped us to get prepared for the next steps.
Highly recommended

I found the clinic to be very well run.
The receptionist are very friendly, helpful and accommodating. The team of specialists that they have compiled works well with each other and really enjoyed my experience.