Navigating ADHD Assessments in Los Angeles, CA: What to Expect During the Evaluation Process

Parents often know when something feels “off” with their child’s attention, behavior, or learning—yet deciding to pursue a formal psychological evaluation can feel overwhelming. In a city as dynamic and competitive as Los Angeles, families often face added pressure to ensure their children are keeping up academically and socially.

At Starleaf Psychological Services, with locations in Pasadena and Newport Beach, we specialize in providing comprehensive ADHD assessments in Los Angeles and Orange County. Our approach helps parents move from confusion to clarity—offering answers, support, and customized recommendations to help every child succeed.

This article provides a detailed guide on what ADHD is, when to consider testing, and what families can expect from the assessment process.

Understanding ADHD: More Than a Buzzword

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most commonly diagnosed neurodevelopmental conditions in childhood. It affects a child’s ability to regulate attention, control impulses, and manage activity levels in developmentally appropriate ways.

There are three primary presentations:

 

• Inattentive Type – easily distracted, disorganized, forgetful, avoids tasks requiring sustained effort

   

• Hyperactive-Impulsive Type – fidgety, excessive talking, difficulty waiting turns, often “on the go”

   

• Combined Type – a mix of both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms

   

Many children exhibit some of these behaviors occasionally, but when these traits are persistent, developmentally inappropriate, and interfere with daily functioning, a formal evaluation is recommended.

When to Consider ADHD Testing

Here are signs that your child may benefit from an ADHD assessment:

 

Academic Concerns

• Incomplete assignments

   

• Difficulty following multi-step instructions

   

• Struggles with time management and organization

   

• Underperformance despite average or above-average intelligence

   

Behavioral and Emotional Red Flags

• Frequent impulsivity or interrupting others

   

• Difficulty regulating emotions

   

• Low frustration tolerance

   

• Outbursts, mood swings, or withdrawal

   

Social Challenges

• Trouble making or keeping friends

   

• Difficulty interpreting social cues

   

• Appears immature for their age

   

Family Stress

• Homework battles at home

   

• Frequent miscommunications or emotional strain

   

• Sibling conflict or parent burnout

   

If these concerns have persisted for more than six months and appear across multiple environments (e.g., home and school), an assessment may be warranted.

The ADHD Assessment Process at Starleaf Psychological Services

At Starleaf, we design every evaluation to be child-centered, evidence-based, and developmentally appropriate. We take the time to understand each child’s cognitive profile, emotional regulation patterns, academic performance, and social functioning—not just symptoms.

Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

 

1. Initial Parent Consultation

The process begins with a detailed intake session. We discuss your child’s developmental history, educational background, medical history, and current concerns. This conversation helps us tailor the assessment tools to your child’s needs.

2. Comprehensive Testing Sessions

Your child will participate in 1–2 in-person sessions, during which our licensed psychologists administer standardized assessments. These may include:

 

• Cognitive testing (IQ)

   

• Attention and executive functioning tests

   

• Working memory and processing speed

   

• Academic achievement measures

   

• Behavioral and emotional questionnaires

   

We also observe how your child approaches tasks, looking for signs of distractibility, impulsivity, anxiety, or emotional dysregulation.

3. Behavior Ratings and Teacher Input

Parents and teachers are asked to complete ADHD-specific behavior rating scales. Since ADHD must be evident across multiple settings, school feedback is a critical piece of the diagnostic puzzle.

4. Clinical Observation and Differential Diagnosis

ADHD often overlaps with other challenges, such as anxiety, learning disorders, sensory processing issues, or autism spectrum disorder. Our assessments are designed to distinguish ADHD from other conditions and ensure your child receives the right diagnosis and support plan.

5. Personalized Feedback and Written Report

We provide a comprehensive, jargon-free explanation of your child’s results in a one-on-one feedback session. You will receive a formal written report that includes:

 

• Diagnostic impressions (if applicable)

   

• Strengths and areas of concern

   

• Tailored recommendations for school and home

   

• Referrals for therapy, educational interventions, or further testing

   

We take the time to walk you through every aspect of the results and answer all your questions.

What Sets Starleaf Psychological Services Apart

• Specialized Expertise: Our clinicians have advanced training in child and adolescent psychological testing, neurodevelopmental disorders, and evidence-based intervention planning.

   

• Whole-Child Approach: We look beyond symptoms to understand the full context of your child’s experience—academic, emotional, behavioral, and social.

   

• Culturally Responsive Care: We understand the diversity of families in Los Angeles and provide evaluations that are inclusive, respectful, and relevant across cultural contexts.

   

• Ongoing Support: We provide post-evaluation consultation, school advocacy support, and referrals to trusted providers for therapy, tutoring, or medical follow-up.

   

Age Range for ADHD Evaluations

We typically assess for ADHD starting at age 5, once children are in a structured classroom setting. However, we frequently assess preteens, teenagers, and college students who may have been missed earlier or are newly struggling with academic or emotional demands.

Young adults may also seek an ADHD diagnosis for college accommodations, test modifications, or workplace support.

ADHD and the School System: Accessing Accommodations

A formal ADHD diagnosis can help you secure school-based services and legal protections, such as:

 

• 504 Plans for extended time, breaks, or alternative testing formats

   

• Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) when additional services are needed

   

• Classroom interventions like preferential seating, visual reminders, or support with organization

We work closely with parents to translate assessment results into actionable plans you can bring to your child’s school team.

Serving Los Angeles Families with Compassion and Clarity

Our Pasadena office serves families throughout Los Angeles County, including Glendale, Burbank, West LA, Beverly Hills, and the San Gabriel Valley. We also welcome clients from Newport Beach, Irvine, and surrounding Orange County cities.

Whether this is your first time seeking psychological testing or you’re looking for a second opinion, our team is here to guide you through every step with expertise and empathy.

Ready to Learn More or Book an Evaluation?

If you’re concerned that your child may have ADHD and want a thoughtful, comprehensive evaluation in Los Angeles or Orange County, we invite you to reach out.

We’ll help you understand your child more clearly—and create a plan that helps them thrive.