ADHD Testing
How the T.O.V.A. works
The T.O.V.A. accurately and precisely measures key variables of both auditory and visual information processing.
The T.O.V.A. is a culture- and language-free, sufficiently long computerized test that requires no left/right discrimination or sequencing. Responses to visual or auditory stimuli are recorded with a unique, highly accurate (±1 ms) microswitch.
The T.O.V.A. calculates response time variability (consistency), response time (speed), commissions (impulsivity), and omissions (focus and vigilance). These calculations are then compared to a large age- and gender-matched normative sample, as well as to a sample population of individuals independently diagnosed with ADHD. These comparison results are used to create an immediately available, easy-to-read report. (https://tovatest.com/how-tova-works/)
Our ADHD (TOVA) Testing Process (Ages 12+)
At Transformative Counseling and Wellness, we offer a clear and comprehensive process for ADHD testing using the TOVA® (Test of Variables of Attention) — an FDA-cleared, computerized test that provides objective data to help identify attention and impulse control difficulties.
Here’s What to Expect:
1. Initial Intake Appointment
New clients will begin with a clinical intake session with one of our clinicians.
This appointment allows us to gather background information, review symptoms, and ensure ADHD testing is appropriate.
Prior to this appointment, clients will complete intake paperwork, including ADHD questionnaires and a symptom checklist.
2. TOVA Testing Session
During the testing session, clients complete two computerized tests:
Visual TOVA (21.8 minutes)
Auditory TOVA (21.8 minutes)
The tests are completed in a quiet, controlled environment with a staff member present to guide you through the process.
3. Follow-Up Results Consultation
After testing, clients will schedule a 30-minute phone call with our clinician who specializes in ADHD.
During this call, the clinician will:
Review and explain your TOVA results.
Discuss how the findings relate to your symptoms and daily functioning.
Provide next-step recommendations for treatment, accommodations, or further evaluation if needed.
Important Information
The TOVA test and follow-up consultation are self-pay services. The TOVA test and follow up to review results is $300. The intake session is $155. Insurance may be accepted to help cover the cost of the intake. Those that are accepted are Aetna, Optum, UHC, and Blue Cross.
This assessment provides valuable, objective data but is not a stand-alone diagnostic tool — results are interpreted in combination with clinical information and client history.
Our ADHD (TOVA) Testing Process (Ages 6-11)
Our goal is to create a comfortable, supportive environment where children can do their best, while parents receive clear and meaningful results.
Here’s What to Expect:
1. Intake Process (Two Parts)
Parent Session:
The first portion of the intake is completed with parents or guardians and is 45 minutes.
During this meeting, we review your child’s history, gather background information, and discuss any concerns you’ve observed.
We’ll also go over the age-appropriate questionnaires and symptom checklists you completed prior to the appointment.
Child Session:
The second portion of the intake is a 45-minute session with your child.
This session allows our clinician to observe your child’s behavior, attention, and play patterns in a relaxed, natural setting.
Depending on your child’s age, this may include conversation, activities, or light play as part of the assessment.
2. TOVA Testing Session
On the testing day, your child will complete two short computerized tests:
Visual TOVA (21.8 minutes)
Auditory TOVA (21.8 minutes)
Testing is conducted in our child-friendly playroom, with our play therapist present to support your child and ensure comfort throughout the process.
Children are given a brief stretch and snack break between the two parts of the test.
3. Follow-Up Results Consultation
After the TOVA testing, parents will schedule a 30-minute phone call with our clinician who specializes in ADHD.
During this call, the clinician will:
Review and explain your child’s TOVA results.
Discuss how the results relate to your child’s behaviors and school functioning.
Offer next-step recommendations, which may include treatment options, school accommodations, or additional evaluations if needed.
Important Information
ADHD testing for children is offered as a self-pay service and is $300. This includes the follow up call. The two-part intake is $310. Insurance may be accepted to help cover the cost of the intake sessions. Those that are accepted are Aetna, Optum, UHC, and Blue Cross.
The TOVA test is one part of a comprehensive ADHD evaluation and does not diagnose ADHD by itself. Results are always interpreted alongside clinical information and behavioral observations.
Taking the T.O.V.A. Test
It’s quite simple: the visual test flashes stimuli on the screen (or the auditory test beeps stimuli on speakers), and the subject taking the test responds as quickly and as accurately as they can with a small handheld microswitch.
Both the auditory and visual tests are 21.6 minutes long.
The visual test has two simple images that alternately flash on the screen, and the subject presses the button after the correct square. The auditory test has two tones, and the subject presses the button after the higher tone.
The T.O.V.A. takes the subject’s responses and compares them to a normative study. This allows us to figure out where the subject’s responses fall on the ‘bell curve’ of within normal limits.
The T.O.V.A. also compares the subject’s responses to a study of people diagnosed with ADHD. These comparisons are not diagnoses! No test can diagnose ADHD. Only a clinician can do that. T.O.V.A. results should only be interpreted by qualified professionals. (https://tovatest.com/how-tova-works/)
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