Why Comprehensive ADHD Testing Matters

Written By Laura LaMonica

Beyond ADHD: Why Comprehensive Testing Matters for Your Child

When your child is constantly losing focus, melting down over small things, or getting into trouble at school, it’s easy to wonder: Is this ADHD—or is something else going on?

That question isn’t just understandable—it’s important. Because the truth is, attention issues can be complicated. What looks like ADHD might actually be anxiety, trauma, a learning difference, autism, or even mood-related struggles. And each of those needs different kinds of support.

That’s why I don’t just “test for ADHD”—I conduct a full, nuanced evaluation designed to understand your child as a whole person.

What’s Included in The ADHD Evaluation?

At Leva Psychiatry in Virginia Beach, I offer comprehensive ADHD testing for children and teens. This isn’t a quick checklist or a one-size-fits-all screener. My goal is to really understand what’s going on—whether your child is struggling with focus, emotional regulation, behavior challenges, or all of the above.

Here’s what’s included in my standard ADHD evaluation:

  • BASC-3 (Behavior Assessment System for Children – 3rd Edition)
    A gold-standard behavioral rating system completed by parents and/or teachers. It screens for:

    • ADHD (inattentive, hyperactive/impulsive, combined type)

    • Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)

    • Anxiety, depression, and emotional dysregulation

    • Peer issues, social skills deficits

    • Executive functioning weaknesses

    • Internalizing symptoms and somatic complaints

  • Parent and Teacher Feedback
    Behavior isn’t one-size-fits-all. Input from home and school gives us a more accurate picture.

  • Clinical Interview and Developmental History
    I explore early childhood, learning style, social development, sensory issues, and family dynamics.

  • Differential Diagnosis Assessment
    I screen for a range of overlapping or alternative diagnoses that may be mimicking ADHD, including:

    • Autism Spectrum Disorder

    • Anxiety disorders and mood instability

    • Learning disabilities

    • Trauma-related responses

    • Executive function deficits without ADHD

    • Oppositional or behavioral disorders

Why This Matters

Misdiagnosis can send families in the wrong direction. Labeling a child with ADHD when they’re actually struggling with trauma, anxiety, or undiagnosed autism leads to interventions that don’t help—and sometimes make things worse. On the flip side, under-identifying ADHD (especially in girls or gifted kids) means children miss out on accommodations and support that can change their life trajectory.

With a correct diagnosis, families get the answers—and direction—they need to move forward with confidence.

What You’ll Receive

Every family receives:

  • A clear, jargon-free diagnostic report

  • An individualized summary of your child’s strengths and challenges

  • Actionable, evidence-based recommendations for school, home, and clinical care

  • Access to curated resources, books, websites, and tools to support ongoing progress

Laura LaMonica, PMHNP
Autism Evaluation & Intervention Specialist
Leva Psychiatry – Virginia Beach, VA

📞 Call: 757-453-5508
📧 Email: admin@levapsych.com
🌐 www.levapsych.com

Laura LaMonica
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Understanding ADHD