Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Patients Requesting Initial Evaluation
Initial evaluations for ADHD diagnosis are NOT offered by Student Health or University Counseling Services.
A comprehensive evaluation for ADHD by a mental health specialist is required if a student would like to receive treatment through Student Health Services.
A list of specialists that offer ADHD testing in the Richmond area is available upon request. The cost of testing is the responsibility of the student. Students are encouraged to discuss coverage with their insurance companies.
Patients Requesting Treatment
To be considered for prescription treatment of ADHD at Student Health, a student must provide a written report of a comprehensive ADHD evaluation completed within the last 3 years.
- The evaluation must include objective testing, and the written report must include details of the various tests performed. The most common objective test used for evaluation of ADHD is the CPT or Continuous Performance Test.
- A copy of the written report can be submitted to Student Health in person, by mail, or by fax (804-828-1093). Please be sure the fax is addressed to Dr. Bekenstein’s attention.
Once the reports have been reviewed, students will be notified whether or not ADHD medication(s) can be provided through Student Health. If approved, an appointment can be scheduled with a physician to discuss care.
Student Health adheres to a strict policy regarding ADHD treatment for multiple reasons. A diagnosis of ADHD made in childhood may not persist into adulthood. In addition, some students are misdiagnosed with ADHD as children. A careful review of each patient's medical history is also important because ADHD medications can have serious side effects.
Please call Student Health at (804) 828-8828 during regular office hours if you have further questions.
Additional Resources
VCU offers a variety of academic resources to all students. For example:
- An ADHD Strategies & Support Group is an ADHD skills group offered weekly by University Counseling Services (UCS). Students can drop-in to receive support, learn strategies, and connect with peers. Click on the link for more information. Other ADHD resources are available on the UCS College Success page.
- The Campus Learning Center (CLC) offers free tutoring services, academic coaching, supplemental instruction and study groups.
- The Writing Center offers individual help with class papers and writing projects.
- The Office of Student Accessibility and Educational Opportunity (SAEO) can help students with documentation of their ADHD diagnoses and discuss academic accommodations, such as note-taking services, reduced distraction rooms for exams, priority seating in classrooms, etc.
- Additional academic resources can be found by clicking on the link.
- VCU's Center for ADHD Research, Education, and Service offers several ongoing studies in the Richmond area. Click on the link to search for opportunities currently offering enrollment to students.