ADHD Testing in West Michigan
ADHD, once thought to only affect “naughty little boys” is now a very common diagnosis for girls – and adults. In fact, it’s one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders.
Arriving at an ADHD diagnosis requires ADHD testing.
There are many places offering ADHD assessments in Grand Rapids. Getting a diagnosis as a child can give a kid a head start in many ways, including learning how their brain works and how to create coping skills for this world.
Getting an assessment completed can be hard work – testing centers are often booked months in advance and the process is often expensive. Add working withing your insurance network to the equation, and the road to ADHD testing can be daunting.
In this Article
Why Bother With ADHD Testing?
The modern world is not made for ADHD minds. School, work and even play is designed for linear minds, even though millions of people don’t think that way.
People with ADHD often feel “less than” just because they can’t sit still behind a desk all day or finish a project in one sitting. This can lead to low self esteem and even anxiety and depression.
It’s time to break the stigma that comes with ADHD. It’s time to make space for the ADHD kid.
If this sounds like your child (or maybe YOU? – you don’t outgrow ADHD), check out the ADHD symptoms we list below, and consider ADHD assessment.
A diagnosis can make all the difference in understanding yourself and learning how to thrive with ADHD.
Diagnosing ADHD in Kids
“The first step of the ADHD assessment process involves having a medical exam, including hearing and vision tests, to rule out other health issues with symptoms similar to ADHD,” says University of Michigan Health-West pediatrician Douglas O’Mara, MD.
After this, you will fill out a checklist to rate symptoms. Once these are complete, Dr. O’Mara says he typically gathers a history from parents and teachers, and talks to the child as well.
In most cases, ADHD is best treated with a combination of behavior therapy and sometimes medication, according to Dr. O’Mara.
“For preschool-aged children (4-5 years of age) with ADHD, behavior therapy—particularly training for parents—is recommended as the first line of treatment before medication is tried.”
Psst – All Kids are Active and Impatient
Kids with ADHD can’t turn it off
Adults know that certain behaviors from children are to be expected. These behaviors are a necessary part of a child’s growth and development.
Children test limits: they test their own physical limits, and they test your limits of patience. They are hyper and seem to never stop moving.
Kids are impatient and sometimes won’t sit still. We expect all that. Impulsivity, hyperactivity and being distracted are all normal behaviors.
So how do you know when the line has been crossed from normal to excessive, and when a child could use ADHD testing and extra help understanding how their brain works?
Symptoms of ADHD in Kids
You know that kid with the energy, big ideas, risk taking guts, ability to overcome obstacles and incredible powers of observation?
For more than 16 million children in the United States, those normal behaviors cross the line into attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
“ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders in childhood,” says Dr. O’Mara.
“Children with ADHD may have difficulty paying attention, controlling impulsive behaviors or may be overly active.”
Dr. Omara goes on to say according to guidelines outlined in the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5), which is used to help diagnose ADHD, children under 17 must exhibit six or more of the following symptoms to be officially diagnosed through ADHD testing:
ADHD Doesn’t Look the Same for Every Child.
Some present as predominantly inattentive, others as hyperactive and impulsive, and some have a combination of both.
The severity of these symptoms also varies from mild to moderate to severe.
Dr. O’Mara understands that it can be difficult to know if your child’s symptoms meet the threshold for ADHD. While there’s no simple ADHD testing to diagnose, there is a clear process for getting there: start with an ADHD assessment.
What Happens During ADHD Testing?
ADHD assessment protocols vary from one practice to another, but they are all trying to measure attention-capacity and determine how much impact ADHD is having on a person’s life.
Assessments for kids look different than adult assessments, but all involve input from sources other than the person being assessed. Teachers or spouses may be asked to fill out questionnaires.
Computer or IQ-type questions may be administered to help measure attention-related details, as well as rule out other possible diagnosis.
The practitioner will spend time asking their client a lot of life questions or otherwise spend time getting historical information related to their evaluation.
Testing is often completed in several phases and can be done in person or virtually.
Financial & Logistical Aspects of ADHD Testing
Insurance companies vary greatly in their coverage of ADHD testing. Because testing can be anywhere from $700-$2000+, it is often important to see if your assessment center will work with your insurance.
Another consideration: testing availability.
Testing centers are experiencing high demand for their services, leaving many clinics no choice but to schedule 6-12 months down the road.
Where to Access ADHD Testing in Grand Rapids
Wondering if your child has ADHD? Check out one of the following top-rated ADHD testing places in Grand Rapids.
When we were certain our son had ADHD, we booked an ADHD assessment with one of the providers below.
Turns out he does NOT have ADHD, but a different diagnosis. Their super thorough testing process really helped us to understand our son and make sure we were getting him the support he needs.
If you’re curious about ADHD testing for your child, contact one of these specialists.
Best ADHD Therapists
Your kid scored high on their ADHD assessment. Now what?
You might want to find an ADHD therapist or coach to help build your kid’s confidence and teach them techniques for coping with ADHD. They can also help you learn how to best support your child.
Does your kid have ADHD plus another condition? Find more therapy providers in the therapy and disability resources guide.
To get started, look through this list of top-voted ADHD therapists in GR (honors were earned in our annual Top doctors awards contest.)
Top Voted ADHD Therapists (2026 Results)
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FCP Guide
Noelle Lynn at The ADHD Center of West Michigan
The ADHD Center of West Michigan is your dedicated partner in understanding and navigating the impact of ADHD on your life.
Focused solely on ADHD, our expert team - many with personal experiences - offers tailored support. We recognize the nuances and challenges of ADHD, avoiding a one-size-fits-all approach.
Whether you are seeking coaching, therapy, assessments, educational therapy, or speech pathology services, we begin where you are and guide you towards your desired destination.
(616) 217-9477 | Visit Website
2025 East Beltline Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 | Map It
Noelle Lynn at The ADHD Center of West Michigan
The ADHD Center of West Michigan is your dedicated partner in understanding and navigating the impact of ADHD on your life.
Focused solely on ADHD, our expert team - many with personal experiences - offers tailored support. We recognize the nuances and challenges of ADHD, avoiding a one-size-fits-all approach.
Whether you are seeking coaching, therapy, assessments, educational therapy, or speech pathology services, we begin where you are and guide you towards your desired destination.
2025 East Beltline Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 | Map It
FCP Guide
Lindsay Hams, MS CCC-SLP at Family Tree Therapies
Family Tree Therapies provides occupational and speech therapy, specializing in feeding, autism, ADHD/Anxiety, Down syndrome, and learning challenges.
We identify and help clients understand the root cause of functional challenges, while providing concrete solutions.
All of our therapists follow the same models to help clients reach their greatest potential!
Congratulations to Lindsay Hams, MS CCC-SLP for being one of the best in West Michigan.
(616) 447-7799 | Visit Website
2251 East Paris Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 | Map It
Lindsay Hams, MS CCC-SLP at Family Tree Therapies
Family Tree Therapies provides occupational and speech therapy, specializing in feeding, autism, ADHD/Anxiety, Down syndrome, and learning challenges.
We identify and help clients understand the root cause of functional challenges, while providing concrete solutions.
All of our therapists follow the same models to help clients reach their greatest potential!
Congratulations to Lindsay Hams, MS CCC-SLP for being one of the best in West Michigan.
2251 East Paris Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 | Map It
Top Voted ADHD Therapists (2026 Results)
Every year, we ask our readers to vote for the area’s best doctors and other health professionals. Get started learning more about ADHD with 2026’s top-voted picks.
Top 10 ADHD Therapists:
1. Kaylie Stearns, (Sensational Steps Therapy)
2. Dr. Jennifer Maurer, (Pediatric Mindworks Center at HRA Psychological Services)
2. Lauren Hunt, (CAYA Therapies)
4. Olivia Kopas, (Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation)
5. Jennifer Hayden, (Leadlight Counseling)
6. Lindsay Hams, (Family Tree Therapies)
7. Amy Piscopink Taylor, (Pine Rest Northeast Clinic)
8. Caitlin Gulbis, (Paper Plane Therapies)
9. Hannah Olsen, (Paper Plane Therapies)
10. Noelle Lynn, (ADHD Center of West Michigan)
10. Lauren Hohman, (The Center for Childhood Development)
Best ADHD Testing Centers in Grand Rapids
If it’s not so much about who does the testing so much as where your child gets tested, consider one of these three Testing Centers:
Top Voted ADHD Testing Centers (2026 Results)
Top 10 ADHD Testing:
1. Pediatric Mindworks Center at HRA Psychological Services
2. BRAINS
3. Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation
4. Pine Rest
5. Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital Neuropsychology
6. Five Lakes Counseling & Psychological Services
7. Rush Pediatric Neuropsychology
8. Anchored Family Psychology and Counseling Associates
9. ADHD Center of West Michigan
9. Integral Psychological Services
ADHD Support in Grand Rapids
ADHD support comes in many forms. Doctors and specialists can give an understanding of the condition. Therapists can teach tools for success. Area organizations can offer enrichment opportunities that affirm these children and provide them with space to be themselves.
The following organizations and individuals are dedicated to helping kids with ADHD around Grand Rapids.
Life with ADHD – Both Kids and Adults Have It
ADHD in children can last into adulthood for at least one-third of children.
Finding out as an adult that you still have ADHD can be quite a shock, since it’s commonly assumed that you’ll outgrow it.
Getting an ADHD assessment for your child is one of the most important steps to helping them, especially if this is a lifelong diagnosis.
If they can learn how their brain works differently, and that they are not broken, they can start learning how to live a healthy life with ADHD.
Kids with ADHD who are never treated often struggle.
“Children with untreated ADHD may face problems at home and at school,” Dr. O’Mara explains.
“The child may not learn everything they’re taught and fall behind and get poor grades. They may struggle to control their emotions, which can lead to social problems and low self-esteem or even depression. The problems may only get worse as the child enters his or her teens.”
Dr. O’Mara encourages families to work with a team to help their child once you have an ADHD assessment. This team includes health care providers, teachers, behavioral therapists and other adults who care for your kid.
“Your role as a parent is critical,” Dr. O’Mara emphasizes.
“You are an important part of the team that will monitor your child’s response to medications and behavior therapy.”
Dr. O’Mara encourages any parents who wonder if their child’s behavior is just a part of normal growing up, or if it could be ADHD, to discuss it further with their child’s healthcare provider.
He also points to the Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD) organization as a great place for parents to go for information, resources, advice and support
Getting tested for ADHD and exploring treatment options can be a life-changing step towards better focus and well-being. Don’t hesitate to seek help and support if you suspect you or a loved one may be dealing with ADHD
The Tutoring Center’s Rotational Approach to Learning was designed to help children with attention disorders or that struggle with focus. Through 1:1 instruction and development of academic skills, students increase confidence and build the concentration needed to reach their potential.