ADHD Specialist Houston

What is ADHD? 

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, commonly called ADHD, is a mental health condition that affects your child’s ability to control impulses, concentrate, and sit for long periods. 

While most individuals receive a diagnosis during childhood, its effects can last well into adulthood. A thorough evaluation allows the team to create an individualized plan that helps you and your child manage symptoms effectively. 

What happens during an ADHD evaluation? 

An ADHD evaluation includes many types of tests. The Bread of Life Pediatrics team reviews your child’s medical history and performs a physical exam to rule out other conditions. 

Next, they gather information about your family's medical history and any symptoms that your child is experiencing.

If you’re seeking an evaluation for an adolescent, the team might ask for interviews with caregivers, teachers, and sports coaches in your child’s life and school records. 

Additional tests for ADHD can include: 

Criteria

The Bread of Life Pediatrics team compares your child’s symptoms to the criteria set forth by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders DSM-5. 

Rating scale

The team may ask you to complete a questionnaire and rate your responses to determine whether your child shows any signs of ADHD.

Are there different types of ADHD?

There are three types of ADHD that the team may diagnose:

• Predominately hyperactive
• Predominantly inattentive
• Combined (a mix of both types) and the most common

Additional types include over-focused, anxious, temporal lobe, limbic, classic, and ring of fire. 

What are the treatments for ADHD? 

Once your child has an ADHD diagnosis, the Bread of Life Pediatrics team can recommend a variety of treatments, like: 

Behavioral Therapy

Behavioral therapy techniques, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), address thoughts and behaviors and develop coping strategies to create more positive patterns. 

Psychotherapy 

Psychotherapy, also called talk therapy, helps patients work through problems one-on-one.

Family therapy 

If you have an adolescent with ADHD, the team works with you and your child to develop routines, reward systems, and coping strategies to improve concentration, reduce distractions, and more.

Medication 

Stimulant medications are effective at reducing many signs of ADHD. Prescriptions can help reduce hyperactivity and increase concentration.

Most treatment plans for ADHD include multiple techniques, usually a combination of therapy and medication. The team works with you to create the right plan for your child.

If you have additional questions or concerns about ADHD, contact Bread of Life Pediatrics and Health online or by phone to schedule a visit.