The evaluation process
Adult ADHD is one of the most commonly missed psychiatric diagnoses in primary care. Symptoms in adults rarely look like the classroom-hyperactivity picture most people associate with the condition — they show up as chronic disorganization, procrastination that feels moral rather than neurological, relationship strain, stalled careers, and a persistent sense of underperforming relative to capability.
Our evaluation is built to pick up on these adult presentations. A full unhurried intake covers developmental history (ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition — we need the timeline), a structured symptom review anchored in DSM-5 criteria, and validated rating scales including the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS-v1.1). We also screen for the conditions that most often ride alongside or mimic ADHD: anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, substance use, and trauma.
A treatment plan is discussed before you leave. When the clinical picture is clear and medication is the right next step, a prescription may be sent that day; in many cases, though, we prefer to start after baseline labs, an EKG, or a brief focused follow-up — especially for new controlled-substance prescriptions. We aim for careful and unhurried, not rushed.
Medication options
Stimulants remain first-line for most adults with uncomplicated ADHD and are supported by the strongest evidence base. We prescribe both drug classes:
- Methylphenidate-based: Concerta, Ritalin LA, Focalin XR, Jornay PM
- Amphetamine-based: Adderall XR, Mydayis, Vyvanse, Xelstrym, Dyanavel
- Non-stimulant options: Atomoxetine (Strattera), guanfacine ER (Intuniv), viloxazine (Qelbree), bupropion — appropriate for patients with cardiac concerns, substance-use history, anxiety-predominant presentations, or stimulant intolerance
Starting doses are conservative. Once stable, follow-ups move to every 3 months — the appropriate interval for ongoing controlled-substance monitoring under federal DEA and Oregon Medical Board guidance.
Serving Bend and Deschutes County
Bend sits in Central Oregon's high desert, served by US 97 and US 20. We see adults from Bend as well as Redmond, Sisters, La Pine, Tumalo, Sunriver, Madras, and Prineville — mostly by secure-video telehealth. Our patient base in the area skews toward outdoor industry professionals, healthcare workers, remote tech workers, retirees, and adults who moved here from larger Oregon cities for a quieter pace.
Bend is well-suited to telehealth — our nearest in-person offices (Salem, Newberg, and Vancouver, WA) are a longer drive, and most patients in Deschutes County find that secure-video visits work just as well as being in the room.
Coordination with primary care is routine. We send a visit summary to your PCP at St. Charles Bend and the Bend Memorial Clinic system (or your independent provider) within one business day when you request it.
Insurance & self-pay
We are in-network with ten major plans: Moda, PacificSource, Regence BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna / Evernorth, Aetna, Providence, MultiPlan / Claritev, First Health, First Choice, and Optum. Most Bend patients pay a specialist copay ($20–$60 typical) per visit.
We do not accept Medicaid or Oregon Health Plan (OHP). Self-pay rates are available by phone. Superbills available for out-of-network reimbursement. Good Faith Estimates provided before your first visit.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get tested for adult ADHD in Bend, Oregon?
Through a comprehensive clinical interview using DSM-5 criteria and the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS), plus a developmental history and screening for conditions that mimic or co-occur with ADHD. Psychological testing (neuropsych batteries) is occasionally ordered when the picture is unclear but is not required for most straightforward adult ADHD cases.
Can I get an ADHD prescription by telehealth in Oregon?
Yes. Current federal DEA telemedicine rules and Oregon Medical Board guidance permit stimulant prescribing by telehealth with an appropriate clinical evaluation. Lavena McCullum, PMHNP-BC, holds an active Oregon DEA registration and prescribes stimulant and non-stimulant medications as clinically indicated.
How long is the wait for an ADHD evaluation?
Most new-patient telehealth appointments are available within about a week. In-person care is not available in your area; the closest offices are in Salem, Newberg (OR), and Vancouver (WA).
Does MindHealth Psychiatry accept insurance for ADHD treatment?
Yes — we are in-network with Moda, PacificSource, Regence BCBS, Cigna / Evernorth, Aetna, Providence, MultiPlan / Claritev, First Health, First Choice, and Optum. Medicaid and Oregon Health Plan are not accepted. Call the office for current self-pay rates.