How to Get Tested for ADHD
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can present as persistent challenges with focus, impulsivity, and restlessness. Whether you’re a parent noticing these patterns in your child or an adult recognizing lifelong difficulties, understanding the testing process is the first step toward tailored support. At Inspire Wellness Therapy, we specialize in holistic approaches and counselling right here in Calgary, Alberta. This guide will walk you through practical steps—from noticing early warning signs to pursuing a professional evaluation—and outline how our team can help you move forward with confidence.
“You don’t have to have it all figured out to start.
At Inspire Wellness, we meet you right where you are.”
Understanding ADHD
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with daily life. While many people associate ADHD with childhood, up to 50% of children continue to experience symptoms into adulthood. A formal assessment isn’t about labeling; it’s about clarity. An accurate diagnosis opens doors to effective strategies, from personalized therapy techniques to lifestyle adjustments that make everyday tasks more manageable.
Recognizing the Symptoms
ADHD symptoms can look different depending on the person and their environment. The three core presentations are:
Predominantly Inattentive: Struggling to stay on task, follow detailed instructions, or organize responsibilities.
Predominantly Hyperactive‑Impulsive: Exhibiting excessive movement, fidgeting, or acting without thinking.
Combined Presentation: A mixture of inattentive and hyperactive‑impulsive behaviors.
If you or your loved one repeatedly misses deadlines, feels restless, or finds it hard to complete everyday activities, it may be time to consider a formal evaluation.
The Initial Steps to Get Tested
1. Self-Reflection
Begin by tracking daily routines: note moments of distraction, impulsive choices, or difficulty completing tasks. This record provides valuable context for a mental health professional.
2. Consult with a Healthcare Professional
Schedule an appointment to discuss your observations. Your doctor can rule out other medical causes and, if appropriate, refer you to a specialist.
3. Explore Local Support
Inspire Wellness Therapy offers comprehensive therapy in Calgary for individuals at every stage of the ADHD journey. Visit inspirewellnesstherapy.ca to learn about our team and services.
A Holistic Approach to Therapy
In Person or Online Therapy
Calgary, Alberta
Getting the ADHD Evaluation
The intake process is designed to be thorough yet comfortable:
Clinical Interview: You’ll have an in-depth conversation covering developmental history, learning experiences, and family background.
Standardized Questionnaires: You, and—when appropriate—teachers or family members will complete rating scales that measure attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
Behavioral Observations: Through guided activities and discussion, specialists watch for patterns that align with ADHD criteria.
Collaborative Feedback: Once data is gathered, your dedicated professional will review results, answer questions, and explain whether ADHD best describes your experiences.
Treatment Options for ADHD
A positive diagnosis marks the beginning of a roadmap, not an endpoint. At Inspire Wellness Therapy, we integrate multiple modalities to support growth:
Solution-Focused & Strengths-Based Work: We emphasize solution-focused therapy, helping you set achievable goals and build on existing strengths.
Mindfulness & Somatic Techniques: Holistic tools like breathwork and body-based awareness cultivate self-regulation and reduce stress.
Collaborative Care: If medication is recommended, we work alongside physicians to combine pharmacological and therapeutic strategies.
Family & Educational Support: Parent coaching, school consultations, and skill-building workshops ensure a consistent support network.
Your assigned therapist for ADHD will craft a personalized plan, adapting methods as progress unfolds.
Why Choose Inspire Wellness Therapy?
Experienced, Caring Team
Our clinicians hold specialized training in ADHD assessment and holistic counselling.Client-Centred Environment
From the moment you step into our Calgary clinic, you’ll find a judgement‑free space focused on your well‑being.Focused on Outcomes
We combine evidence-based strategies like solution-focused therapy with innovative holistic practices to promote lasting change.Local Leadership
As a trusted provider of therapy in Calgary, we understand the unique needs of Alberta families and adults navigating ADHD.
Our holistic approach to therapy emphasizes understanding and nurturing these fundamental aspects of ourselves. We create a safe space for exploration and healing through individual, relationship, and family therapy.
Our Calgary Locations
We proudly serve our community with two therapy locations in Calgary, ensuring accessible mental health support for individuals and families.
📍 [5920 Macleod Trail SW #460, Calgary, AB T2H 2G4] – Serving Therapy in South East and Therapy in South West Calgary.
📍 [#206-7, 301 14 St NW Calgary, AB T2N 1Z7] – Serving Therapy in North East, Therapy in North West Calgary, and Therapy near Downtown Calgary
Both locations offer a warm, welcoming environment designed to make you feel safe and supported during your therapy journey.
How to Get Started with Inspire Wellness Therapy
Taking the first step toward therapy can be life-changing. Here’s how you can get started today:
1. Visit Our Website: Explore our therapists’ profiles and learn more about our services at [Your Website URL].
2. Book an Appointment: Easily schedule your session through the Jane app or by calling our office.
3. Attend Your First Session: Begin your journey to healing with the support of our compassionate team.
Conclusion
Finding the right therapist in Calgary can be a life-changing step toward improved mental health and overall well-being. At Inspire Wellness Therapy, we are committed to providing compassionate, individualized care that meets your unique needs. Whether you’re looking for support with anxiety, trauma, relationships, or personal growth, our diverse team of experienced therapists is here to guide you.
Ready to take the first step? Inspire Wellness Therapy offers a free 15-minute consultation to help you start your journey. Contact us today to learn how therapy can support your goals and overall mental well-being.
Frequently Asked Question’s (FAQ’S)
1. What is involved in an ADHD assessment? An ADHD assessment typically includes a clinical interview, questionnaires, and sometimes cognitive or behavioral testing. It may also involve gathering information from multiple sources, such as parents, teachers, or partners, to understand how symptoms present across different settings.
2. How do I know if I need an ADHD assessment? If you consistently struggle with focus, organization, time management, impulsivity, or emotional regulation—and these challenges impact your daily life, work, or relationships—it may be helpful to explore an ADHD assessment with a qualified professional.
3. Is ADHD the same as being neurodivergent? ADHD is one form of neurodivergence, which is a broader term that includes conditions like autism, dyslexia, Tourette’s, and others. Being neurodivergent means your brain processes and experiences the world in ways that differ from what’s considered “typical” or “neurotypical.”
4. Can adults be diagnosed with ADHD or other forms of neurodivergence? Absolutely. Many adults are diagnosed later in life, especially if their symptoms were overlooked or misunderstood in childhood. An assessment can offer clarity, self-understanding, and access to support strategies.
5. What happens after an ADHD or neurodivergence diagnosis? After a diagnosis, you’ll receive a personalized set of recommendations, which may include therapy, coaching, accommodations, or medication (if appropriate). The goal is to support your strengths and help you manage any challenges you face.
