Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely. ADHD and autism are lifelong neurological differences, not conditions that only apply to children. Many adults go undiagnosed for decades, particularly women and those who learned to compensate or mask their challenges. A thorough evaluation in adulthood can finally make sense of patterns you have been living with your whole life.

Strong performance does not rule out ADHD or autism. Many intelligent and capable people are undiagnosed precisely because they have developed sophisticated coping strategies. The internal experience still matters, and Dr. Bell is trained to look beyond surface-level functioning to see what is actually happening underneath.

The full assessment process typically spans 3 to 4 weeks. It includes an intake call, the evaluation sessions (usually 1 to 2 appointments), report writing, and a feedback session. Some timelines vary based on complexity and scheduling.

A full evaluation includes a clinical interview, standardized testing tailored to the question you are bringing in, a comprehensive written report, and a 60-minute feedback and recommendations session where Dr. Bell walks through your results in plain language. Autism evaluations may also include the ADOS-2, a gold-standard structured assessment instrument.

There is nothing you need to study or rehearse. Coming in well-rested and bringing any prior records (school evaluations, therapy notes, accommodation letters, IEPs, 504 plans) is helpful but not required. Eat a normal meal beforehand and wear something comfortable. The goal is to see how your brain actually works, not how well you can perform under pressure.

OC NeuroDx provides autism evaluations beginning at age 2 and ADHD evaluations beginning at age 5, serving children, teens, and adults up to age 70. Dr. Bell has particular experience with kids through young adults, and with adults seeking answers later in life.

OC Neurodivergent Diagnostic Center is a private-pay, out-of-network practice. Insurance is not billed directly. Many clients use HSA or FSA funds to cover assessment costs, and Dr. Bell provides detailed superbills you can submit to your insurance for potential partial reimbursement. Full details are on the Fees page.

Yes, in most cases. HSA and FSA funds typically cover diagnostic assessments. Check with your account provider to confirm what your specific plan covers.

Final reports are typically delivered within 2 to 3 weeks of your last testing session. You will receive the written report along with a scheduled 60-minute feedback session to discuss the findings and recommendations.

Yes. Reports written for accommodation requests are tailored to meet the specific documentation standards of each testing body (LSAC, AAMC, College Board, ACT). The evaluation includes the standardized testing and functional impairment documentation those agencies require.

No, not without your permission. Your evaluation is confidential. Reports are released only to the people you authorize. If you choose to request workplace or academic accommodations later, you decide what to share and with whom.

Every new client starts with a complimentary 20-minute phone consultation with Dr. Bell. There is no commitment. The call is a chance to discuss your history, ask questions, and decide together whether this practice is the right place for your evaluation. Reach out through the contact form to schedule it.