How does one go about getting a test for bipolar/ADD, or other mental health related illnesses?

How does one go about getting a test for bipolar/ADD, or other mental health related illnesses?A counselor recommend I get a cognitive psychological analysis done. What does this mean? Where do you go to get a comprehensive mental health screening? Are they special clinics? Does insurance cover this stuff usually?

She believes I have ADD and should go through a screening, but said they are expensive. What are they called? Thanks!!!!!

Answer by Rhonda and her cats
My kids had these done at a state funded clinic. I think it was more or less for placement in class. The ADD was diagnosed by questions answered by myself & the teachers.
Bipolar too...I'm pretty sure it's diagnosed with a good medical history & ruling out other illness.

Answer by sweet sue
You need to see a good psychiatrist who can do a history on you and help to determine if anything is wrong. There is really nothing like psychoanalysis any more. That was a frued thing. Now they have a book called the DSMVI that is the bible for psychiatric diseases. If you fit certain criteria then you most likely have the illness. Most psych's don't spend time with counseling anymore, it is usually a 15 minute med check. He will see you frequently while you are stabilizing on meds.

There are local mental health assoc. in almost every area, they are govt. sponsored and yu can see a psych and a counselor If you have heaalth insurance they have to cover psychiatrists just like any other Dr. Most have limits on counselors and have certain ones they pay for. My psych is out of network so I pay more but hes worth it. Ican see my counselor from my ins company 30 times in one year. Talk to your insurance company for referrals.

Answer by i love my garden
first go your doctor then he will refer you to a psychiatrist who will order the necessary tests. Good luck

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