Testing for ADHD

My therapist wants me to get tested for ADHD. I'm not chomping at the bit to get it done because I've heard it's pretty intensive and very expensive. However, my therapist says I can't get treatment without the test and my symptoms are really making life hard for me. I forget exactly what she said, but something along the lines of my (possible) ADHD symptoms combined with my (diagnosed) schizoaffective d/o are making each other worse.
I'm just curious if the testing is really all that bad or if it's worth it. My T said I have to go through my PCP to get the testing instead of the pdoc but I'm not sure if I should wait a while to see my pdoc (in March) or call my PCP sometime soon.

I think I had like a half day for all my tests and it cost like $3000 which luckily insurance paid.

Testing can vary depending on what the clinic offers. I was referred by my Physician Assistant to get neuropsychological testing. It was planned as a half day activity, but we went through the testing in about an hour and a half. Afterwards I had to meet again with the psychologist to review the findings. It was covered by my insurance. Typically it can be a wait to get neuropsychological testing at some places as it's in high demand. However, neuropsych testing is not very helpful in diagnosing ADHD.

The one test that they use in neuropsych testing to help with ADHD is what's called a Continuous Performance Test. This is often done on a computer and asks you to press or not press a button when a certain thing pops up on the screen. It's a few minutes long. It can sometimes be useful in catching ADHD but not always.

There are other types of testing including structured ADHD interviews, ADHD questionnaires, and comprehensive evaluations that involve gathering information from you about your history, symptoms, education, work, and other parts of life. This also may involve interviews with collateral people such as family, friends, or teachers.

Bottom line, it's probably good to ask about what type of evaluation you're being referred for. In the end the evaluation itself may not diagnose you with ADHD.

I worked with my providers for about a year and a half before they gave me the ADHD diagnosis. That was after therapy and a few medication adjustments. I'd say in general to be patient with the process, be open, and ask questions. Good luck!