Choosing
Therapy or an evaluation?
They are different jobs done by different people. Booking the wrong one first costs time, so here is how to tell.
If you want to know whether you have ADHD
Ask for an evaluation. Lumen does not do them, and Andre will give you names of clinicians who do. Ask each one how long it takes, what it costs and what the report covers.
If you have a diagnosis, or do not need one
Therapy can start now. You do not need a diagnosis to begin, and nothing in the first session depends on one.
If you want to talk about medication
Ask a prescriber: a physician, nurse practitioner or physician assistant. Andre does not prescribe.
If you want more than one
Many people do. With your permission Andre will talk with whoever evaluates you or prescribes, so you do not have to repeat yourself.
Side by side
What each one asks of you, and gives you
Therapy at Lumen
What it asks of you
A little time each week and one small step
How long it lasts
As long as it helps; you and Andre decide
What you leave with
A plan for the week
What it does not do
Diagnose ADHD or prescribe
An ADHD evaluation
What it asks of you
Interviews and questionnaires, sometimes tests
How long it lasts
One or more visits, set by the evaluator
What you leave with
A written report
What it does not do
Give ongoing support
A medication visit
What it asks of you
A short history and a list of what you take now
How long it lasts
A first visit, then check-ins
What you leave with
A medication plan, or a decision to wait
What it does not do
Teach you skills or give you time to talk things over
If you look for an evaluation
Questions to ask an evaluator
Who does the evaluation, and what is their license?
Ask what training they have in evaluating adults for ADHD.
What does it include, and how long does it take?
Ask how many visits, whether there are tests, and when you get the report.
What does it cost, and will my plan pay?
Ask for the fee in writing and ask your plan before you book.
Questions about the difference
Does a diagnosis change what we do?
Not much in the first sessions. We start from what is hard for you now. A diagnosis can help you explain your needs to others, and Andre will use it if you have one.
Can Andre refer me?
Yes. He can give you the names of clinicians who evaluate adults for ADHD and of prescribers. He does not take a payment for a referral.
Is it a problem to start therapy while I wait?
No. Many people do. Therapy will not change the result of an evaluation, and it does not need to wait for one.
Not sure where to start?
A 15-minute fit call is a short call about fit. It is not therapy, an evaluation or an assessment.