Understanding the Intersection of Affirming Care and the Current Mental Health Framework
ADHD is not an accessory; it’s a neurotype—a fundamental way your brain works. It’s not something external to you, but an integral part of your cognitive makeup. While some people prefer to identify with their ADHD, saying “I have ADHD,” others find comfort in externalizing it. This distinction can be helpful, as it separates them from the stigma often associated with ADHD and allows them to see their struggles as a result of a specific neurological process, not as a personal flaw. There's no one-size-fits-all approach, and each person's relationship with their
ADHD is unique.
While we affirm that ADHD is a neurotype, not inherently a disorder, our society is structured around neurotypical brains. This means that what we often “treat” in therapy isn’t ADHD itself but the trauma, grief, and shame that arise from living in a world that wasn’t designed with neurodivergent people in mind.
Being affirming doesn’t mean only focusing on strengths and reframing the negatives. While this can reduce shame and stigma, it’s crucial to validate the real challenges that come with having an ADHD brain. It’s not helpful to tell someone with high support needs that ADHD is their “superpower” when they’re struggling just to stay afloat. They don’t need to be told they’re amazing swimmers—they need a life preserver.
Why We Offer Assessments
The decision to provide ADHD assessments wasn’t easy. On one hand, it’s frustrating that we have to diagnose ADHD at all, especially using frameworks like the DSM, which don’t always reflect an affirming perspective. But on the other hand, people deserve access to affirming care and the ability to use their insurance benefits.
One of the primary treatments for ADHD is medication, but the barriers to accessing it can be overwhelming. Many people face long waiting lists and high costs for assessments. I decided to get trained to administer ADHD assessments to help reduce these barriers, providing affordable and accessible testing for my clients.
The same assessments I offer can cost four times as much at other places. Although objective testing isn’t always necessary for an ADHD diagnosis, many prescribers require it before they’ll consider a diagnosis from a therapist. By offering these assessments, I’m helping bridge the gap between what prescribers need to feel confident prescribing and what my clients need to move forward with their care.
How We Use ADHD Assessments
In our practice, ADHD testing isn’t required for a diagnosis. We only conduct testing if a client specifically requests it for their own information or to share with another provider, such as their therapist or doctor.
Another critical aspect of the assessment process is ruling out other conditions that may present similarly to ADHD. It's essential to have a provider who understands these nuances and knows how to differentiate between ADHD and other potential diagnoses. This ensures that clients receive the most accurate and helpful guidance for their unique needs.
In summary, we offer ADHD assessments to provide a necessary service that respects both the affirming perspective on ADHD and the current realities of the mental health system. It’s about bridging the gap between what clients need and what the healthcare system requires.
Comments