When It’s Not ADHD: Why Getting the Right Diagnosis Matters

(And Why It’s Worth Getting a Proper ADHD Assessment in San Diego)

by Dr. Tilbe Ambrose

So you’re easily distracted, forget where your keys are daily, and find yourself bouncing between 12 open browser tabs at any given moment. Classic ADHD, right? …Maybe. But maybe not. 🤔

ADHD is real—and it’s underdiagnosed in many people. But it’s also misdiagnosed a lot, because ADHD symptoms can look like a lot of other mental health conditions. That’s why getting a comprehensive ADHD assessment in San Diego (with professionals who really know what they’re doing) is essential. Especially if you're thinking about medication.

Let’s break it down.

ADHD or Something Else?

ADHD doesn’t live in a bubble. Its most common symptoms—like inattention, impulsivity, restlessness, or trouble with time management—can overlap with other psychological and neurological conditions. Without a proper evaluation, what seems like ADHD might actually be something completely different.

Here’s what it can get confused with:

• Anxiety – Racing thoughts, restlessness, and inability to focus? That’s anxiety and ADHD.

• Depression – Feeling unmotivated, tired, foggy, and forgetful? Also not exclusive to ADHD.

• Bipolar Disorder – Impulsivity, rapid speech, bursts of energy? Sounds familiar... but the underlying causes are very different.

• OCD – Some folks with ADHD develop intense systems and routines to overcompensate for their executive functioning challenges, which can look a lot like OCD.

• Sleep disorders – Poor sleep can wreck your focus and memory, mimicking ADHD symptoms.

  
  

And let’s not forget Autism Spectrum Disorder, where executive functioning, sensory issues, and attention difficulties are also in the mix.

Wait—So What Is ADHD, Then?

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects the brain’s ability to regulate attention, behavior, and emotional responses. It’s not a character flaw. It’s not laziness. And it’s not just about being “hyper” or “scattered.”

To know whether it’s really ADHD, you need more than a quiz or a 10-minute doctor’s visit. You need a full psychological evaluation with a trained professional who can look at your entire story—including your history, current challenges, and patterns across different areas of life.

That’s what we do here at Restore Psychology, where we offer thorough and thoughtful ADHD testing in San Diego—designed to uncover what’s really going on.

Why It’s a Big Deal to Get It Right

Here’s the truth: ADHD medication is powerful. In people who have ADHD, stimulants can be incredibly effective. But in people who don’t have ADHD? These meds can lead to overstimulation, dependency, or even serious side effects.

That’s why a correct diagnosis matters so much. We’re not just checking boxes—we’re helping you understand how your brain works, so you can get the right treatment (and avoid the wrong one).

Looking for ADHD Testing in San Diego?

If you’ve been wondering whether you have ADHD—or if you’ve been misdiagnosed—let’s talk. At Restore Psychology, we specialize in psychological evaluations in San Diego that are clear, compassionate, and tailored to you. Because your brain deserves to be understood.

🧠 Frequently Asked Questions About ADHD Assessments at Restore Psychology

1. What does the ADHD testing process involve?

At Restore Psychology, our ADHD assessment process is comprehensive and tailored to your unique needs:

• Initial Consultation: A phone call to understand your concerns and determine if an evaluation is appropriate.

• Clinical Interview: An in-depth session gathering developmental, educational, and behavioral history.

• Standardized Testing: Completion of questionnaires and neuropsychological assessments validated for diagnosing ADHD.

• Feedback Session: A review of results, providing a comprehensive written report with recommendations and referrals.

  
  

We aim to complete the entire process within two weeks. 

2. How long does the evaluation take?

The evaluation consists of:

• Intake Session: 1 hour

• Assessment Administration: 2–4 hours

• Feedback Session: 1 hour
  

Our goal is to complete the entire process within two weeks. 

3. Do you assess for conditions other than ADHD?

Yes! We screen for co-occurring concerns such as anxiety, depression, personality disorders, and learning disabilities. 

4. Will insurance cover the cost of testing?

Restore Psychology is an out-of-network provider for testing. We provide a superbill for possible reimbursement from your insurance provider. Please check with your insurance plan for details. 

5. Can I use the evaluation report for school or workplace accommodations?

Absolutely. Our reports are often used to support 504 Plans, IEPs, or workplace accommodations. 

6. Do you offer ADHD testing for children and adults?

Yes, we specialize in ADHD testing for children, teens, and adults. 

7. How do I schedule an ADHD assessment?

To schedule an appointment, you can fill out our online contact form on the website. Our intake coordinator will assist you in finding a therapist and scheduling a convenient time for your first session. 

For more information or to schedule your ADHD assessment in San Diego, visit Restore Psychology.

Note: This information is based on the latest available data as of May 2025. For the most current details, please contact Restore Psychology directly.