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ADHD Evaluation & Treatment
Clear Answers and Real Support for Focus, Impulsivity, and Big Energy
Teachers say your child can't sit still. Homework takes three hours. You've read every article and still don't know whether this is ADHD, anxiety, or just being a kid. At The Center for Child Development, we help Delaware families get a clear answer and a plan that fits, whether that means therapy, coaching, support at school, medication, or a combination.
Who we help
- Children
- Teens
- Adults
- Parents & Caregivers
Treatment approaches
- Clinical ADHD Evaluation
- Behavioral Therapy & Skills Coaching
- Parent Coaching
- School Collaboration & School-Based Support
- Medication Management with Taneka Johnson, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC
Is It ADHD, or Something Else?
Trouble focusing, restlessness, and impulsivity show up in ADHD, but they also show up in anxiety, trauma, poor sleep, learning differences, and ordinary developmental stages. A good evaluation looks at the whole picture instead of checking boxes. That's why we take our time, gather information from home and school, and talk with you about what we see before naming anything.
How an ADHD Evaluation Works at CCD
Our evaluation is a conversation, not a test your child can pass or fail. Most families complete it in two to three visits, in person in Newark or by telehealth.
- A detailed interview with parents or caregivers about development, school, home, and what you've already tried
- Standardized rating scales completed by parents and, with your permission, teachers
- Review of report cards, prior evaluations, and any school plans (504 or IEP)
- Time with your child or teen to understand how they experience attention, frustration, and success
- A psychiatric evaluation with our medication provider when medication is being considered
- A written summary you can share with your pediatrician and school, plus a plan we build together
Treatment That Fits Your Child
ADHD is a difference in how the brain manages attention and regulation, not a character flaw or a parenting failure. Treatment works best when it builds on your child's strengths and gives the adults around them practical tools.
- Behavioral therapy and skills coaching for organization, emotional regulation, and follow-through
- Parent coaching so routines, transitions, and homework stop being daily battles
- Collaboration with your child's school on classroom strategies and accommodations
- Medication management when it's appropriate, with careful monitoring and your full involvement
- Support for co-occurring anxiety, low self-esteem, or sleep problems that often travel with ADHD
Support at School
As Delaware's largest school-based mental health provider, we know how ADHD shows up in the classroom. With your permission we share recommendations with your child's teachers and can support 504 plan or IEP conversations. In partner schools, your child may be able to see a CCD therapist during the school day.
ADHD in Teens and Adults
Many teens and adults were never evaluated as children, especially girls and women, whose ADHD often looks like daydreaming, disorganization, or anxiety rather than hyperactivity. We evaluate and treat ADHD at every age, and our adult counseling program supports parents who recognize themselves in their child's diagnosis.
Symptoms and conditions we treat
- Trouble paying attention or finishing tasks
- Impulsivity or interrupting
- Hyperactivity or constant restlessness
- Disorganization and lost belongings
- Big emotional reactions and frustration
- Homework and school struggles
- Forgetfulness
- Difficulty with routines and transitions
Frequently asked questions
Does CCD diagnose ADHD?
Yes. Our clinicians evaluate children, teens, and adults for ADHD using clinical interviews, standardized rating scales from home and school, and, when medication is being considered, a psychiatric evaluation with Taneka Johnson, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC. You receive a written summary you can share with your pediatrician and school.
What ages do you evaluate for ADHD?
We evaluate children from about age 5 through adulthood. For younger children we focus on understanding behavior and supporting parents, since many ADHD-like behaviors are typical before school age.
Does an ADHD diagnosis mean my child has to take medication?
No. Medication is one option among several and is never required. Many families start with therapy, parent coaching, and school supports. If medication is considered, our psychiatric provider explains the benefits, risks, and alternatives and monitors closely, and you stay involved in every decision.
How long does an ADHD evaluation take?
Most evaluations are completed over two to three appointments within a few weeks, depending on how quickly rating scales come back from school. Evaluations can be done in person at our Newark office or by telehealth.
Do you accept Medicaid for ADHD evaluation and treatment?
Yes. We accept most Delaware Medicaid plans, Aetna, and Highmark. Call (302) 292-1334 and we'll verify your coverage before your first appointment.
Can you help with a 504 plan or IEP for ADHD?
Yes. With your permission we share evaluation findings and classroom recommendations with your child's school, and our school-based team can support you in 504 or IEP meetings.
Locations
We provide adhd evaluation & treatment through telehealth, our Newark office, and school-based programs throughout Delaware.
Get started
We accept most Delaware Medicaid plans, Aetna, and Highmark. To get started, complete new client paperwork at ccddelaware.com or call the office at (302) 292-1334.