Center for Diagnostic Excellence (CDE)
Comprehensive Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism (ASD) testing, diagnosis, and support for children, teens, and adults.
About the Center for Diagnostic Excellence
The Center for Diagnostic Excellence at Minnesota Mental Health Clinics provides comprehensive ADHD and Autism (ASD) assessments for children, teens, adults seeking first-time or updated diagnosis, and individuals unsure whether their symptoms are ADHD, ASD, both, or related to another condition. Our evaluations are designed to deliver clarity, diagnostic accuracy, and individualized recommendations so you can confidently take the next steps in care.
Whether you’re seeking a new diagnosis, confirming previous concerns, or exploring attention or developmental differences, our clinicians specialize in neurodevelopmental testing that examines the whole person: cognitive, emotional, behavioral, social, and functional.
What is ADHD?
ADHD affects attention, organization, and impulse control, often causing focus and time‑management challenges but also bringing creativity and energy. With proper support, individuals with ADHD can thrive.
ADHD assessments are available starting at 6 years old.
What is ASD?
ASD affects social communication, sensory processing, and behavior. Individuals may prefer predictability, communicate differently, and experience sensory sensitivities, while also showing strong focus, deep interests, and meaningful strengths. Supportive, personalized environments help promote independence and wellbeing.
ASD assessments are available starting at 2.5 years old.
ADHD evaluations are available starting at age 6. ASD evaluations are available starting at age 2.5. Why does this matter? Based on 2025 CDC data, ASD is identified in 3.2% of 8-year-old children in the the U.S., and about 12% of U.S. children (ages 3-17) have been diagnosed with ADHD, making early, accurate evaluation and support critical.
What do we assess?
Our evaluations create a detailed diagnostic profile across cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and social domains.
Frequently Asked Questions About ADHD & ASD Assessments
Do you diagnose both ADHD and Autism?
Yes, we offer evaluations for both ADHD and Autism. We can clarify when symptoms overlap.
Do you accept insurance?
ADHD and ASD assessments can be expensive elsewhere. At MMHC, we accept major insurances, along with Medicare and Medicaid, making neurodevelopmental evaluations far more accessible for Minnesota families.
How long is the waitlist?
MMHC offers shorter wait times compared to many specialty centers so you can get answers sooner.
Do you test adults?
Yes, ADHD testing is available for ages 6 through adulthood, and ASD testing is available for ages 2.5 through adulthood.
How does MMHC support individuals after the diagnosis?
Absolutely. Clients can transition directly into therapy, psychiatry, skills coaching, or care coordination through our integrated network.
What happens after testing?
Clients can seamlessly transition into MMHC’s broader mental health system:
Therapy & Skills Sessions: Support for emotional regulation, executive functioning, coping skills, and family dynamics.
Psychiatry: Medication support for ADHD, anxiety, or co‑occurring conditions.
Executive Functioning Support: Organizational coaching, study skills, and planning support for diagnosed individuals.
Care Coordination: Collaboration with schools, primary care, employers, and other providers to ensure accommodations are applied effectively.
Seeking post-diagnosis therapy support?
Schedule time with one of our Intake Coordinators to talk about providers who can work with you and your diagnosis.
Who and how does the CDE serve?
Adults and children who are seeking clarity or support for a potential or previous diagnosis of ADHD/ADD or ASD. We welcome clients who need:
What We Help With: We help develop an understanding of cognitive and emotional abilities, strengths and weaknesses, and how these relate to real-life strategies for overcoming difficulties and fostering growth, through personalized treatment plans & support recommendations.
Who Can We Help: We support all ages in understanding current struggles and making accurate diagnoses to create a full picture of areas of need. We provide clear, research-based strategies to help adults, adolescents, children and their parents thrive.
How We Help:
- Initial series of psychological evaluations & assessments
- Robust diagnostics that includes personalized recommendations tailored to your needs
- After-assessment appointments to deepen your understanding about how to live with & successfully manage to your treatment plan
What We Help With: In our evaluations, we ask about your work or school environment and identify areas of strength and difficulty. For our minor clients, we coordinate with educators to understand classroom challenges and provide targeted recommendations.
Who Can We Help: We assist those struggling with their workload or school performance. We aim to understand your difficulties and provide targeted strategies and supports, and our evaluations will give you the information to support testing or workplace accommodation, referrals or other treatment support.
How We Help:
- Series of psychological evaluations & assessments for cognitive and learning abilities or challenges
- For workplace, a functional capacity evaluation (FCE)
- Disability accommodation letter, if appropriate, and/or 504 plan support to support IEP development, if applicable
What We Help With: We assist individuals in understanding and managing their previous diagnoses. Our goal is to provide clarity and support, helping you navigate your journey with confidence. We offer strategies and resources tailored to your specific needs, ensuring you have the tools to thrive.
Who Can We Help: We support individuals of all ages who have received a previous diagnosis and are seeking further guidance. Whether you are looking for additional strategies, validation, or a comprehensive treatment plan outside of initial evaluation, we’re here to help you make the most of your strengths and address any challenges.
How We Help:
- Thorough previous diagnosis review & needs assessment
- Consultation with you on your current or future goals
- Recommendations or additional evaluations to determine other treatment paths, referrals or resources to support your diagnosis
Why choose MMHC for assessments and support?
We Accept Most Major Insurances
ADHD and ASD assessments can be expensive elsewhere. At MMHC, we accept insurance, making neurodevelopmental evaluations far more accessible for Minnesota families. Some insurance and payment options include:
- Aetna
- BlueCross BlueShield MN
- Medica
- United Healthcare
- HealthPartners
- Medicaid
- Cigna
- Medicare
- Self-Pay
- HSA/FSA
No Long Waitlist
Many clinics have 3-12 month waitlists for ASD and ADHD testing. MMHC offers faster scheduling, helping individuals get answers and support sooner.
Integrated Care & Strong Referral Network
After testing, clients have immediate access to MMHC’s full mental health team, including:
- Individual therapy
- Psychiatry & medication management
- Executive functioning & organizational skills support
- DBT/CBT skills groups
- Family therapy
Your results transfer seamlessly into a coordinated care plan—no need to start over with a new provider.
Ready to start the conversation?
Let us know how we can best support you. Whether you call our office or contact us online, our Intake Coordinators will work with you to take the best first step for you.