AD/HD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) Documentation Guidelines
Students requesting accommodations on the basis of attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (AD/HD) should provide current documentation by a qualified diagnosing professional. Examples are licensed psychologists, psychiatrists, neurologists, and in some instances family practice physicians. The diagnosing professional should have expertise in the differential diagnosis of the documented mental disorder or condition, follow established best-practices in the field, and be unrelated to the patient.
The documentation should:
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Be current (within 3 years)
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Be comprehensive, including:
- Evidence of early impairment (parent interviews, report cards, etc.)
- Evidence of current impairment (and level of severity)
- Rule out of alternative diagnoses or explanations
- Relevant testing
- Identification of DSM-IV criteria
- A specific diagnosis
- A statement of specific functional limitations (especially those involved in attending a post-secondary educational institution, and whether the degree of limitation is mild or severe)
- An interpretative summary
- Include a rationale for each accommodation recommended by the evaluator
For specific guidelines on the criteria for AD/HD documentation, please see the Educational Testing Services Policy Statement for Documentation of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Adolescents and Adults.
Documentation
- An approved licensed professional should complete an AD/HD Documentation Form
- Students also complete and return an Application for Services Form with the disability documentation.
Local Clinicians: A partial list of local private clinicians familiar with the diagnosis and treatment of learning disabilities and Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorders (ADHD). You can expect to pay professional rates; however, your health insurance may cover some of the costs.
San Luis Obispo, California 93407