At Quality Behavioral Health, a Comprehensive and Integrated Model for the Assessment and Treatment of ADHD:
Assessment
Psychological testing is available and overseen by a Clinical Psychologist using ADHD symptom assessments and rating scales.
Although there is no single test to evaluate symptoms of ADHD, trained clinicians at QBH will administer the NICHQ Vanderbilt Scales to assess for symptoms. Part of the process will involve collecting family, medical, and social and occupational history. Other observers of your child’s behavior will be asked to address academic and classroom functioning for ADHD and co-occurring symptoms.
Assessment Scales
NICHQ Vanderbilt Assessment Scales—Parent Informant
NICHQ Vanderbilt Assessment Scales–Teacher Informant
NICHQ Vanderbilt Follow-Up Assessments
If it is determined that your child has symptoms of ADHD, a treatment plan, which may include medical management, will be developed. You will then have the option of enrolling your child in the QBH 12-session ADHD Program.
THE 12-SESSION ADHD PROGRAM AT QBH
Education
Patients and their significant family members are educated as to the nature of the disability and the impact on the patient’s academic and work performance, social interactions, and general overall functioning. Treatment includes education about the possible causes of ADHD including Genetics, Neurotransmitter Functioning, and contributing environmental effects. Clients are also taught strategies to help manage symptoms of ADHD by modifying lifestyle habits and using various supports and resources. If medication is suggested a psychiatrist or psychiatric nurse practitioner can help determine which ADHD medicine is right for you.
Parent Coaching and Support
For parents of children and adolescents, coaching counseling and educational materials are available to provide support in setting goals, organizing tasks, managing time, and reducing impulsive behaviors. A comprehensive library of educational materials for children and care givers is available to participants in the program. Help and guidance is provided to help parents and caregivers navigate the school system and matters relating to IEP’s and 504 plans.
Parents and significant others are often overwhelmed and frustrated by a client’s behaviors, seeing the behaviors as signs of deliberate misbehavior rather than a biologically driven set of behaviors that do not meet adult expectations.
The focus on coaching is on Executive Function Skills. Numerous practical strategies are taught to help children develop task independence and time awareness: morning routine, being ready for school, managing and organizing homework, short and long-term projects.
Psychotherapy
Therapy is an important part of a comprehensive ADHD treatment plan and is provided by a staff of specially trained and licensed Mental Health Counselors and Social Workers. Individual therapy may help manage challenging problems such as difficulty focusing, organizing, lack of motivation, and poor memory. The functions of therapy are to provide support, understanding, and guidance to the client while teaching strategies to help the patient to become more self-reliant and an independent manager of the symptoms of ADHD.
Medication
The use of appropriate medications for children, adolescents, and children with ADD and ADHD is often an important part of treatment. Medications may effectively activate the prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain that is important in the control of attention, behavior and judgment. Medical management is provided by Board Certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrists, a Developmental Pediatrician, and prescribing Nurse Practitioners.
Health and Nutritional Counseling
Benefits of a balanced diet, exercise, and proper sleep habits are explained to participating clients.
Dietary counseling is provided by a registered dietician. Avoiding certain foods with artificial coloring and various preservatives may be a beneficial adjunct in the treatment of ADHD symptoms.
Ongoing Consultation, Tracking, and Follow-up
Communication and consultation with parents, schools, and other clinical and medical services are key components of comprehensive and integrated services at Quality Behavioral Health. These services are provided and coordinated by QBH staff.
Phone: (401) 681-4274 | Fax: (401) 681-4285
info@qbhri.com