The Nexus Teen Academy editorial and clinical team is dedicated to providing informative and accurate content to help families who are struggling with adolescent behavioral health problems. The editorial team works directly with the clinical team to ensure information is accurate and up-to-date.
To do this, our team uses the following editorial guidelines:
We generally only cite government and peer-reviewed studies
Scientific claims and data are backed by qualified sources
Content is updated to ensure we are citing the most up-to-date data and information
Clinically reviewed by Executive Director Hannah Carr, LPC
Executive Director Hannah Carr, LPC
Hannah graduated from Arizona State University with her Bachelor’s in Psychology and Master’s in Counseling and is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona. She began her work as a therapist 12 years ago in South Phoenix with an intensive outpatient program for teens and their families. She joined Nexus in the residential program as the clinical director, eventually being promoted to the executive director, creating and building the clinical program structure and a strong culture focused on redirecting the trajectory of young lives.
The Nexus Teen Academy Editorial Staff is composed of writers, editors, and clinical reviewers with many years of experience writing about mental health and behavioral health treatment. Our team utilizes peer-reviewed, clinical studies from sources like SAMHSA to ensure we provide the most accurate and current information.
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a mental health condition that affects how your teen controls impulses, manages time, or focuses. It can lead to low self-worth, strain in relationships, and trouble at school. However, most teenagers with ADHD often get misdiagnosed or undiagnosed. This is because it is easy to overlook the symptoms of ADHD in teens.
At Nexus Teen Academy, we believe that early assessment can make a big difference. It can help your teen understand what they are dealing with and give the family the proper tools to support your teenager. In this article, we will discuss how to spot the signs of ADHD in your teens and what to expect during an assessment. We will also highlight who to contact for help and how to proceed after a diagnosis.
It can be challenging to recognize the signs of ADHD in your teen. Most teenage behaviors, like forgetfulness and moodiness, are common in puberty. However, it may be time to pay closer attention when they disrupt your teen’s daily life.
However, it is important to note that these signs are not about laziness. They represent how your teen’s brain processes information. If they persist, seek immediate professional attention.
Emotional and Social Indicators
Teen Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder is not just about focus; it also affects relationships and emotions. According to studies, 25-45% of children with ADHD struggle with emotional dysregulation. You may notice your teen acting impulsively, struggling to keep friendships, or overreacting to criticism. Other signs include:
Sudden mood swings
Interrupting conversations
Acting without thinking
Reacting strongly to small setbacks
These behaviors can make it difficult to follow social cues or maintain relationships at home and school.
What Happens During an ADHD Assessment for Teens
If you’re looking into an ADHD assessment for teens, you might wonder how the process is done. An evaluation will help clarify whether ADHD causes your teen’s hyperactivity, impulsivity, or lack of focus. It also helps rule out other possible causes and ensures your teen gets the proper support.
Initial Consultations and History-Taking
The first step in the assessment involves a detailed interview. You will be asked to provide information about your teen’s medical, educational, and developmental history. This helps identify behaviors that may signify ADHD.
The healthcare professional will also ask about the challenges your teen experiences at home, school, or socially. The idea is to check for other conditions like past trauma, anxiety, or learning disabilities that could mimic ADHD symptoms. This process is crucial because it ensures accurate diagnosis.
Psychological and Cognitive Testing
Next, your teen may be given tests to measure memory, problem-solving skills, and attention. This may include written questionnaires or computer-based tasks. The professionals also use behavior rating scales filled by teachers or parents to compare your teen’s behavior to their peers.
Even though IQ screenings may also be used, they are not the primary focus. The main idea is understanding how ADHD affects your teen’s thinking and daily life.
Clinical Observation and Teen Input
The clinician will also observe your teen’s behavior during the assessment. They will notice signs of difficulty staying focused, impulsivity, or restlessness. Sometimes, they will use real-life tasks to see these traits in action.
Throughout the process, your teen’s perspective remains essential. They will also fill out self-report forms about their feelings and challenges. Their response helps the professionals to understand how ADHD affects them.
By the end of the assessment, you will be able to know whether your teen has ADHD and how to support them. The process is comprehensive and may take time, but it ensures your teen gets the proper help.
Who Can Diagnose ADHD in Teens?
If you suspect your teen has ADHD, it is best to have a qualified professional assess them. Not every expert can diagnose ADHD in teens. Being assessed by the right specialist ensures your teen is evaluated accurately.
Only some healthcare providers can officially diagnose ADHD in teens. These include:
Psychologists, such as neuropsychologists or clinicians, who conduct cognitive and behavioral testing.
Psychiatrists can also diagnose ADHD and prescribe medication if necessary.
Neurologists who are experts in brain function also help rule out other neurological conditions.
Developmental pediatricians with expertise in childhood and teen developmental disorders can also assess and rule out other developmental challenges.
Although school psychologists can screen for ADHD, they usually lack the expertise to give a formal diagnosis. A clinical environment is the best place for a complete assessment.
The Value of Multidisciplinary Evaluation
Whereas the above professionals can assess ADHD in your teen, it is best if they collaborate for optimum results. Similarly, parents, teachers, and counselors with real-world insights into your teen’s behavior are also crucial during the process.
Parents provide information about developmental history and behavior at home.
Teachers offer insights into impulsivity and focus in class.
Counselors also often notice social and emotional struggles.
A combination of these perspectives can help rule out other conditions like learning disabilities or anxiety to ensure proper diagnosis.
After the Diagnosis: What Comes Next?
Receiving an ADHD diagnosis for your teen can be challenging as well. The results and uncertainty about what to do next can be daunting. The good news is that there are various effective ways to treat ADHD in teens and offer support. The first step is learning about all these options to enable you to make informed decisions.
Treatment Options for Teens with ADHD
Medication
Medication is often one of the approaches experts recommend because it can offer relatively quick relief in impulse control and focus. Stimulant medications like amphetamines (Adderall, Vyvanse) or methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) increase dopamine levels in the brain. This helps with self-regulation and attention. When properly monitored, these medications have proved useful. However, they often have side effects like trouble sleeping or reduced appetite, but these can be managed.
If your teen experiences problematic side effects or fails to respond to these stimulants, non-stimulants like guanfacine (Intuniv) or atomoxetine (Strattera) may be recommended. Non-stimulants work differently in the brain and may take time to show effects. However, they are equally helpful.
You should work closely with your teen’s doctor to find the proper medication and dosage for your teen. This often requires trial, close monitoring, and adjustments over time.
Therapeutic Interventions
Beyond medication, various therapies can be used to teach your teen essential skills to manage ADHD. Behavioral therapies like cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapies help your teen recognize and replace harmful patterns. They also help with impulse control, task completion, and organization. Cognitive behavioral therapy goes even deeper and addresses negative thought patterns developed after years of struggling with ADHD.
Executive function coaching, specifically targeting prioritization, planning, and time management through structured routine and accountability, can also help. However, all these approaches offer the best results when combined with consistent support at home and school.
Academic Support and Lifestyle Adjustments
School Accomodations
Formal accommodations at school can help your teen overcome ADHD challenges that affect their performance. Initiatives like the Individualized Education Program (IEP) offer specialized instructions and services. Similarly, a 504 plan provides modified assignments, extended time on tests, and permission to move around when necessary. These ensure your teen receives the proper support in a classroom environment.
Lifestyle Strategies
Equally crucial are lifestyle changes that can help manage ADHD symptoms.
Since ADHD causes fatigue that worsens emotional regulation and focus, a consistent sleep routine can offer relief.
A balanced diet of omega-3 fatty acids, proteins, and complex carbohydrates can provide energy and stabilize attention throughout the day.
Regular moderate physical activity, like a 30-minute walk or gym, can naturally boost mood by producing endorphins.
Technological Approaches
Technology is a double-edged sword that can make or break your teen’s condition. Excessive screen time can increase the effects of ADHD symptoms. However, apps like Todoist help with task organization, while Focus@Will helps with time management and concentration.
How Nexus Teen Academy Supports Teens with ADHD
At Nexus Teen Academy, we understand your teen needs an environment structured to address their unique needs. Our teen mental health treatment program allows individualized plans with an ideal balance between independence and support. Our evidence-based treatment approaches and healthy coping strategies can help your teen develop essential life skills and build confidence.
If you are looking for more than just accommodations, we have a safe environment where your teen can cope and excel. Visit our website or contact us today to learn how we can help your teen.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How Long Does A Typical ADHD Assessment For Teens Take?
A complete ADHD assessment for your teen can take several hours to complete and may be spread over one or two sessions. Some evaluations may require follow-up meetings, especially if the professional recommends additional consultations or testing.
Can ADHD Be Mistaken For Other Mental Health Disorders In Teens?
Yes, ADHD symptoms often overlap with conditions like depression, anxiety, and learning disorders. That is why a complete assessment is crucial to differentiate ADHD from other issues to avoid misdiagnosis.
Is It Possible For Teens To Outgrow ADHD Symptoms?
While some teens may see reduced symptoms as they mature, many continue to experience ADHD into adulthood. However, symptoms can evolve, and improved coping strategies or treatment can reduce their impact.
What Role Do Parents Play During The Treatment Process After Diagnosis?
Parents reinforce routines, monitor medication effects, and offer consistent emotional support. Your active involvement in therapy and school planning meetings ensures the treatment remains personalized and effective.
Executive Director Hannah Carr, LPC and nexus_admin
ADHD Assessment For Teens
FACT CHECKED
The Nexus Teen Academy editorial and clinical team is dedicated to providing informative and accurate content to help families who are struggling with adolescent behavioral health problems. The editorial team works directly with the clinical team to ensure information is accurate and up-to-date.
To do this, our team uses the following editorial guidelines:
Clinically reviewed by Executive Director Hannah Carr, LPC
Executive Director Hannah Carr, LPC
Hannah graduated from Arizona State University with her Bachelor’s in Psychology and Master’s in Counseling and is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona. She began her work as a therapist 12 years ago in South Phoenix with an intensive outpatient program for teens and their families. She joined Nexus in the residential program as the clinical director, eventually being promoted to the executive director, creating and building the clinical program structure and a strong culture focused on redirecting the trajectory of young lives.
Published By Nexus Teen Academy
Nexus Teen Academy
The Nexus Teen Academy Editorial Staff is composed of writers, editors, and clinical reviewers with many years of experience writing about mental health and behavioral health treatment. Our team utilizes peer-reviewed, clinical studies from sources like SAMHSA to ensure we provide the most accurate and current information.
Published On August 16, 2025
Table of Contents
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a mental health condition that affects how your teen controls impulses, manages time, or focuses. It can lead to low self-worth, strain in relationships, and trouble at school. However, most teenagers with ADHD often get misdiagnosed or undiagnosed. This is because it is easy to overlook the symptoms of ADHD in teens.
At Nexus Teen Academy, we believe that early assessment can make a big difference. It can help your teen understand what they are dealing with and give the family the proper tools to support your teenager. In this article, we will discuss how to spot the signs of ADHD in your teens and what to expect during an assessment. We will also highlight who to contact for help and how to proceed after a diagnosis.
If you are looking to get your teen into a professional mental health treatment center for their ADHD, call us today.
Signs Your Teen Might Need an ADHD Assessment
It can be challenging to recognize the signs of ADHD in your teen. Most teenage behaviors, like forgetfulness and moodiness, are common in puberty. However, it may be time to pay closer attention when they disrupt your teen’s daily life.
Academic and Attention Challenges
Teenagers with ADHD often face academic challenges more than neurotypical teens. You may notice signs like:
However, it is important to note that these signs are not about laziness. They represent how your teen’s brain processes information. If they persist, seek immediate professional attention.
Emotional and Social Indicators
Teen Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder is not just about focus; it also affects relationships and emotions. According to studies, 25-45% of children with ADHD struggle with emotional dysregulation. You may notice your teen acting impulsively, struggling to keep friendships, or overreacting to criticism. Other signs include:
These behaviors can make it difficult to follow social cues or maintain relationships at home and school.
What Happens During an ADHD Assessment for Teens
If you’re looking into an ADHD assessment for teens, you might wonder how the process is done. An evaluation will help clarify whether ADHD causes your teen’s hyperactivity, impulsivity, or lack of focus. It also helps rule out other possible causes and ensures your teen gets the proper support.
Initial Consultations and History-Taking
The first step in the assessment involves a detailed interview. You will be asked to provide information about your teen’s medical, educational, and developmental history. This helps identify behaviors that may signify ADHD.
The healthcare professional will also ask about the challenges your teen experiences at home, school, or socially. The idea is to check for other conditions like past trauma, anxiety, or learning disabilities that could mimic ADHD symptoms. This process is crucial because it ensures accurate diagnosis.
Psychological and Cognitive Testing
Next, your teen may be given tests to measure memory, problem-solving skills, and attention. This may include written questionnaires or computer-based tasks. The professionals also use behavior rating scales filled by teachers or parents to compare your teen’s behavior to their peers.
Even though IQ screenings may also be used, they are not the primary focus. The main idea is understanding how ADHD affects your teen’s thinking and daily life.
Clinical Observation and Teen Input
The clinician will also observe your teen’s behavior during the assessment. They will notice signs of difficulty staying focused, impulsivity, or restlessness. Sometimes, they will use real-life tasks to see these traits in action.
Throughout the process, your teen’s perspective remains essential. They will also fill out self-report forms about their feelings and challenges. Their response helps the professionals to understand how ADHD affects them.
By the end of the assessment, you will be able to know whether your teen has ADHD and how to support them. The process is comprehensive and may take time, but it ensures your teen gets the proper help.
Who Can Diagnose ADHD in Teens?
If you suspect your teen has ADHD, it is best to have a qualified professional assess them. Not every expert can diagnose ADHD in teens. Being assessed by the right specialist ensures your teen is evaluated accurately.
ADHD assessment and diagnosis should be done by qualified professionals who understand the guidelines in the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, Fifth Edition (DSM-5).
Qualified Professionals to Look For
Only some healthcare providers can officially diagnose ADHD in teens. These include:
Although school psychologists can screen for ADHD, they usually lack the expertise to give a formal diagnosis. A clinical environment is the best place for a complete assessment.
The Value of Multidisciplinary Evaluation
Whereas the above professionals can assess ADHD in your teen, it is best if they collaborate for optimum results. Similarly, parents, teachers, and counselors with real-world insights into your teen’s behavior are also crucial during the process.
A combination of these perspectives can help rule out other conditions like learning disabilities or anxiety to ensure proper diagnosis.
After the Diagnosis: What Comes Next?
Receiving an ADHD diagnosis for your teen can be challenging as well. The results and uncertainty about what to do next can be daunting. The good news is that there are various effective ways to treat ADHD in teens and offer support. The first step is learning about all these options to enable you to make informed decisions.
Treatment Options for Teens with ADHD
Medication
Medication is often one of the approaches experts recommend because it can offer relatively quick relief in impulse control and focus. Stimulant medications like amphetamines (Adderall, Vyvanse) or methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) increase dopamine levels in the brain. This helps with self-regulation and attention. When properly monitored, these medications have proved useful. However, they often have side effects like trouble sleeping or reduced appetite, but these can be managed.
If your teen experiences problematic side effects or fails to respond to these stimulants, non-stimulants like guanfacine (Intuniv) or atomoxetine (Strattera) may be recommended. Non-stimulants work differently in the brain and may take time to show effects. However, they are equally helpful.
You should work closely with your teen’s doctor to find the proper medication and dosage for your teen. This often requires trial, close monitoring, and adjustments over time.
Therapeutic Interventions
Beyond medication, various therapies can be used to teach your teen essential skills to manage ADHD. Behavioral therapies like cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapies help your teen recognize and replace harmful patterns. They also help with impulse control, task completion, and organization. Cognitive behavioral therapy goes even deeper and addresses negative thought patterns developed after years of struggling with ADHD.
Executive function coaching, specifically targeting prioritization, planning, and time management through structured routine and accountability, can also help. However, all these approaches offer the best results when combined with consistent support at home and school.
Academic Support and Lifestyle Adjustments
School Accomodations
Formal accommodations at school can help your teen overcome ADHD challenges that affect their performance. Initiatives like the Individualized Education Program (IEP) offer specialized instructions and services. Similarly, a 504 plan provides modified assignments, extended time on tests, and permission to move around when necessary. These ensure your teen receives the proper support in a classroom environment.
Lifestyle Strategies
Equally crucial are lifestyle changes that can help manage ADHD symptoms.
Technological Approaches
Technology is a double-edged sword that can make or break your teen’s condition. Excessive screen time can increase the effects of ADHD symptoms. However, apps like Todoist help with task organization, while Focus@Will helps with time management and concentration.
How Nexus Teen Academy Supports Teens with ADHD
At Nexus Teen Academy, we understand your teen needs an environment structured to address their unique needs. Our teen mental health treatment program allows individualized plans with an ideal balance between independence and support. Our evidence-based treatment approaches and healthy coping strategies can help your teen develop essential life skills and build confidence.
If you are looking for more than just accommodations, we have a safe environment where your teen can cope and excel. Visit our website or contact us today to learn how we can help your teen.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A complete ADHD assessment for your teen can take several hours to complete and may be spread over one or two sessions. Some evaluations may require follow-up meetings, especially if the professional recommends additional consultations or testing.
Yes, ADHD symptoms often overlap with conditions like depression, anxiety, and learning disorders. That is why a complete assessment is crucial to differentiate ADHD from other issues to avoid misdiagnosis.
While some teens may see reduced symptoms as they mature, many continue to experience ADHD into adulthood. However, symptoms can evolve, and improved coping strategies or treatment can reduce their impact.
Parents reinforce routines, monitor medication effects, and offer consistent emotional support. Your active involvement in therapy and school planning meetings ensures the treatment remains personalized and effective.