Our ADHD assessments are designed to provide a complete view of how ADHD affects each individual across domains such as academic/work performance, relationships, emotional regulation, and executive functioning.

Let’s uncover your strengths and create a path forward—schedule your evaluation today!

Focus Forward & Thrive is dedicated to providing in-depth and comprehensive ADHD testing, assessment, and diagnosis (if appropriate) specifically designed for adults. Each assessment is methodically organized to deliver clarity and understanding, employing standardized tools that are well-established in both medical and educational sectors. Focus Forward assists clients through every phase of the process, from the initial consultation to a comprehensive report filled with recommendations.

Recommendations & referrals for treatment

ABOUT

ADHD

Comprehensive ADHD evaluations

Valid and evidence-based testing

Multi-dimensional assessments

Coaching/mentoring sessions (optional)

ADHD in Adults is a valid diagnosis that typically begins in childhood and often extends into the teenage years, with about two-thirds of children with ADHD becoming adults with the condition. It is frequently accompanied by other issues, including anxiety, depression, substance use disorder, bipolar disorder, sleep disorders, and various other diagnoses. The presence of these co-occurring conditions should prompt health care professionals to assess for ADHD, as it may be an underlying factor contributing to patient concerns. There are 18 recognized symptoms of ADHD, which can help identify whether an individual falls into one of three categories: hyperactive, inattentive, or combined. Given the long-held belief that ADHD diminishes after childhood, both adults with ADHD and their primary care providers are increasingly gaining insight into the disorder and effective, safe treatment options. ADHD is no longer viewed solely as a childhood issue. ADHDinAdults.com offers current, evidence-based, accredited CME and non-CME programs for healthcare professionals, created and delivered by experts in the field.

Adult ADHD

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition with a wide range of symptoms. It requires a comprehensive evaluation to differentiate it from other conditions with similar symptoms.

What is a comprehensive ADHD assessment? A comprehensive ADHD assessment explores how ADHD impacts various areas of your life and includes evidence-based tools and evaluations to provide a clear diagnosis and personalized recommendations. What happens after I get an ADHD diagnosis? After an ADHD diagnosis, we provide you with a full report and actionable insights tailored to your needs. You’ll have the option to work with a recommended ADHD mentor who can help you build effective strategies for daily challenges and long-term goals. How is ADHD mentoring different from therapy? ADHD mentoring focuses on practical, action-oriented strategies for managing daily life and reaching personal goals, while therapy often involves exploring deeper emotional and psychological aspects. Many clients benefit from a combination of both.

CONTACT: 715.828.3069 kpcounseling@gmail.com

“Discover the ‘why’ behind your struggles and uncover tools for thriving, not just surviving.”

“Your ADHD journey starts here: Insight. Understanding. Empowerment.”

Are you constantly overwhelmed, struggling with focus, or feeling like you’re falling behind—despite your best efforts? ADHD could be the missing piece of your puzzle. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) and ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP), I bring professional expertise and personal understanding to every evaluation. Diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, I know firsthand the relief and clarity that comes with identifying the root of your challenges. An ADHD assessment isn’t just about a diagnosis; it’s about you—your unique experiences, strengths, and struggles. With a compassionate, judgment-free approach, I help you uncover the “why” behind your struggles and provide personalized recommendations to help you thrive in work, relationships, and life. Start your journey toward greater understanding, self-compassion, and empowerment today. Your ADHD doesn’t define you—but knowing about it can help you redefine your path.

Why an ADHD Assessment Can Be Life-Changing

Do you often struggle to focus or get easily distracted? Is staying organized or managing time a constant challenge? Do you forget important details, deadlines, or tasks frequently? Do you act or speak impulsively, sometimes leading to regret? Are you easily overwhelmed by emotions like frustration or impatience? Do you feel restless, like your mind is always racing? Have these challenges affected your work, relationships, or daily life? Did you notice similar patterns in childhood, even if undiagnosed?

If you answered “yes” to several of these, an ADHD evaluation can provide clarity, understanding, and actionable next steps.

Can you relate?

Take this QUIZ

Meet Me

HELLO.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Certified ADHD Specialist. My expertise lies in assessing, diagnosing, and treating adults who have ADHD.

My name is Kara Pederson, LICSW, ADHD-CCSP

I provide thorough ADHD assessments and support for those seeking help from a qualified and licensed professional. More importantly, my own experience of being diagnosed with adult ADHD has given me a distinctive perspective and insight into the challenges faced by individuals living with this condition.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and ADHD - Certified Clinical Services Provider.

In my early 30's, after many years of struggling with daily life functioning and mental health symptoms, I was diagnosed with ADHD. This clarity and understanding was what allowed me to move forward in implementing EFFECTIVE treatment measures and skill development that significantly improved my quality of life. After spending many years since my diagnosis learning everything I could about ADHD, I obtained my ADHD-CCSP (ADHD Certified Clinical Specialist Provider) certification in hopes of providing guidance and support to adults finding themselves in a similar position that I once was. ​ Having been part of the mental health system, myself, not only as a provider, but also as the patient, I bring a unique perspective and enhanced understanding of all the facets involved with a diagnosis of ADHD. I hope to use my practice, knowledge, and experiences to be a source of support and guidance in helping others find the tools and skills that effectively address the symptoms and functional difficulties that accompany a diagnosis of ADHD.

MY STORY

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) Minnesota #22072

LCSW Florida SW #214829

Credentials/Licensure

ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider May 2023

Review of testing scores Diagnosis determination and review of DSM-IV criteria Treatment options On-going symptom management Treatment referrals and further recommendations

SERVICES

Comprehensive diagnostic assessment

Assessment Feedback Session

1 hour - $200

3 x 60 minute sessions- $950

Individual Psychotherapy Session (optional)

1 hour - $150

An additional session may be scheduled to further explore treatment options and discuss results of evaluation. (Additional fees apply.)

Comprehensive assessments are extensive and completed in three phases. Sessions 1-3 are completed 1-2 weeks apart and take approximately 60 minutes per session. All phases of the comprehensive assessment ARE REQUIRED to move forward in this process.

Phase 1

Phase 2

Phase 3

Standard mental health testing Medical and psychiatric history review Symptom screening Functional impairment screening Co-morbidities screening Childhood and developmental history assessment Identify informants for corroboration of symptoms

Total package fee: $1100.00

Symptom and functional status review Continuation of testing and assessment(s) Review corroboration assessments and feedback Review of DSM-5 criteria Completion report of findings provided at next session

Follow up (optional)

INTAKE

evaluation

detailed report

work with me

Total cost for evaluation & detailed report: $950

mentoring

Johanan offers individualized support designed to align with your strengths and areas needing growth. Through guidance and coaching, Johanan helps develop targeted skills, strategies, and routines aimed at making life with ADHD more manageable. Each client receives personalized assistance tailored to their unique needs.

ADHD mentoring can be a valuable next step in managing ADHD beyond the assessment process. Mentors work with individuals on skills like time management, organizational strategies, goal-setting, and emotional regulation to help them build a successful and fulfilling life.

Arimi

johanan

Adhd

Learn and understand how to navigate the "unwritten" rules and challenges that no one tells you about...from those who know best.

in real life

ADHD Mentoring Referral Program

Key Skills Addressed in ADHD Mentoring

Time Management Organization Task Initiation and Follow-Through Focus and Attention Emotional Regulation Impulse Control Executive Functioning Goal Setting and Achievement Accountability Self-Advocacy

Clients must complete an assessment and/or provide a previously obtained diagnostic evaluation that identifies a diagnosis, along with documentation from a licensed provider confirming that services are necessary to address specific symptoms. Additionally, release of information forms will be required to permit coaching services after the completion and/or receipt of the diagnostic assessment and identification of needs, especially if obtained from a previous agency. This process is essential to ensure that clients receive the appropriate level of treatment they require.

PAYMENT/FEES

Fees & billing rates are based on standard out-of-network and insurance reimbursement rates.

A $50 deposit is required to book an intake. This will be applied towards your balance owed.

Payment for service(s) is required PRIOR to the start of each session.

Cancellations need to be made within 48 HOURS of scheduled session for refund of deposit.

Payments are completed using an app called IVYPAY which is HIPPA compliant. Clients will be required to have a credit card on file upon initial intake.

Focus Forward is committed to transparency in billing and to helping clients make informed decisions about care. As part of this commitment, Focus Forward complies with the No Surprises Act, a federal law that protects clients from unexpected medical bills. Under the No Surprises Act, healthcare providers are required to give clients who don’t have insurance or who choose not to use their insurance an upfront “Good Faith Estimate” for the cost of services. This estimate provides an overview of expected costs for services you may receive. You have the right to request and receive a Good Faith Estimate before beginning services. If the final billed amount exceeds the Good Faith Estimate by more than $400, you may have the option to dispute the charges. I strive to be clear and upfront about the costs of services, so you can feel confident and informed every step of the way. If you have any questions about the Good Faith Estimate or your rights under the No Surprises Act, please feel free to contact me.

No Surprises Act

At Focus Forward, I offer private-pay mental health therapy sessions to provide the highest level of personalized care without restrictions often imposed by insurance companies. Payment for services is required at the time of each session. While we do not bill insurance directly, I can provide you with a detailed receipt, called a “superbill,” after your session. You have the option to submit this superbill to your insurance company for potential reimbursement, depending on your plan and out-of-network benefits.

Reimbursement is not guaranteed and depends on your insurance policy’s terms. I recommend contacting your insurance provider to confirm your out-of-network coverage and reimbursement process. Submitting a superbill requires you to handle communication directly with your insurance company. I am happy to answer any questions about this process and provide you with the necessary documentation to help you access potential insurance benefits.

Superbill

Q&A

Do you accept insurance?

Is this a valid assessment I can use in other settings? (i.e. health care and education setting)

If provider determines that patient fulfills the diagnostic criteria for ADHD, a diagnosis with be provided along with documentation detailing how symptoms align with the criteria, as well as tailored recommendations for ongoing treatment and support. Conversely, if the criteria are not met or further testing is recommended, client will receive a detailed report outlining the reasons for this determination with recommendations for on-going treatment and/or referrals for further evaluation.

Do you provide refunds if no diagnosis of ADHD is identified?

do you prescribe medications?

NO. Medications can only be prescribed by a psychiatrist; however, the diagnostic evaluation can be used as a valid diagnosis for your provider to determine if medications and/or further testing for appropriateness of medications is needed.

YES. I am a licensed clinical social worker with active licenses in both Minnesota and Florida. It is within the scope of my licensure to evaluate and diagnose individuals. These diagnostic assessments are valid and accepted across settings (i.e. medical setting, education, etc.). Depending on determination of treatment needs, I cannot ensure that further testing/evaluation will not be required by alternative providers (i.e. should patients choose to pursue medications, etc.)

NO.

Clients are provided with a “superbill” following each session, or as requested, that outlines all services and payments received. Clients can submit this “superbill” to insurance in hopes of seeking reimbursement. Reimbursement is dependent on each clients insurance plan and is NOT guaranteed.

do you have a cancellation fee?

Clients are given one no show/cancellation before losing their $50.00 deposit. Make-up session times for missed sessions will be scheduled as available due to high demand.

I am considered an out-of-network provider. ALL payments are out-of-pocket with payments due PRIOR to session.

At Focus Forward, I offer private-pay mental health therapy sessions to provide the highest level of personalized care without restrictions often imposed by insurance companies.

do you provide assessments for children/adolescents?

NO. At this time, assessments are only available to adults (18+).

NO.

Work with Me

KP COUNSELING

Address

kpcounselingllc@gmail.com

Email

715.828.3069

Phone

Rochester, Minnesota

contact information

If you are interested in an assessment, please contact 715.828.3069 (text/voice message) OR email kpcounseling@gmail.com with your name and contact information and I will respond within 48-hours.

Website

www.kpcounselingllc.com

ADHD

Resources

www.ADDitudemag.com

websites

This Is a Turning Point in ADHD Research — and Treatment

ARTICLES

Why ADHD in Women is Routinely Dismissed, Misdiagnosed, and Treated Inadequately

(click)

How to Control Your Anger When ADHD Emotional Reactivity Kicks In

Adult ADHD

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS

Traumatic Stress Alongside ADHD: 5 Reasons Clinicians Need to Consider Trauma

REFERENCES

Adler LA, Faraone SV, Sarocco P, Atkins N, Khachatryan A. Establishing US norms for the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS-v1.1) and characterising symptom burden among adults with self-reported ADHD. Int J Clin Pract. 2019 Jan;73(1):e13260. doi: 10.1111/ijcp.13260. Epub 2018 Sep 21. PMID: 30239073; PMCID: PMC6585602.

www.ADHDinAdults.com