Guidelines For ADHD

What is Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder

When it comes to ADHD, no one diagnosis or treatment fits all. Everyone is different. The American Psychiatric Association has identified three types. Each has different symptoms, and treatments are based on those symptoms.

Inattentive Type

A person with this type must have at least six of these nine symptoms and very few of the symptoms of hyperactive-impulsive type:

  • Not paying attention to detail
  • Making careless mistakes
  • Failing to pay attention and keep on task
  • Not listening
  • Being unable to follow or understand instructions
  • Being distracted
  • Avoiding tasks that involve effort
  • Being forgetful
  • Losing things that are needed to complete tasks
Hyperactive – Impulse Type

To have this type, a person has to have at least six of these nine symptoms, and very few of the symptoms of inattentive type:

  • Fidgeting
  • Squirming

  • Getting up often when seated

  • Running or climbing at inappropriate times

  • Having trouble playing quietly

  • Talking too much

  • Talking out of turn or blurting out

  • Interrupting

  • Often “on the go” as if “driven by a motor”

Combined Type

This is the most common type of ADHD. People with it have symptoms of both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive types.

Guidelines for ADD/ADHD Treatment

  • Nonstimulant Treatment

    • Neuropsychological Test not needed
    • A complete Psychiatric Evaluation by the Nurse Practitioner
    • Medication options ( SSRIs, Intuniv, Strattera, Wellbutrin)
    • If nonstimulant medication fails, then a Neuropsych test will be needed for any stimulant medications.

  • B.Stimulant Treatment ADHD

    • Neuropsychological Test is needed for all Adults and children. ( a diagnosis from your Family physician, a previous psychiatrist or therapist will not suffice.)
    • Minimal to no benzodiazepine use will be prescribed with a Stimulant
    • If you had Neuropsych testing at the age of 15 and can provide proof of testing that diagnosed you with ADHD/ADD then a Neuropsych test will not need to be repeated.
    • Proof of Employment or being in school is required, if you are on SSD and your SSD includes a diagnosis of ADHD/ADD and you are currently taking a stimulant then your provider will continue your medication if it is safe to do so.
    • Random Drug Screens are required
    • Trial and fail of 2 non controlled stimulants is mandatory.
    • If you have a history of substance abuse your provider will determine if a stimulant is appropriate

  • C.Treatment Policies for Stimulants

    • No replacement of lost, damaged or stolen scripts under any circumstances
    • No refills request or increases outside of an appointment if a refill is needed then you will be subject to a $10.00 fee.
    • Refill requests are Mon-Friday 9am to 2pm and you must give your provider a 3-day notice of refill request.
    • Most providers will see you monthly or every other month for refills

ADHD Assessment Washtenaw County MI

Contact us to schedule an appointment or visit our ADHD Therapy page to learn more on how we can help effectively manage ADHD symptoms.

logo