Key Takeaways
- Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is diagnosed using a complex approach that can include patient interviews, behavior observations, lab tests, a review of medical records, and neuropsychological testing.
- Working with a psychiatrist who specializes in ADHD is important since symptoms can present differently in people.
- A thorough evaluation, which may include multiple visits, is typically necessary for an accurate diagnosis.
Psychiatrists are medical professionals who prescribe medication for mental health concerns. But can a psychiatrist diagnose ADHD, and what are the benefits to seeing a psychiatrist over other providers?
In short, yes — a psychiatrist can diagnose ADHD. If you’re considering seeing a psychiatrist for an ADHD diagnosis, it’s normal to feel anxious or unsure about the process. The assessment might feel overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that a psychiatrist is specially trained to help you through the process and understand what you’re going through.
What happens during an ADHD assessment
There’s no single test or assessment instrument that’s used for an ADHD diagnosis. It’s usually a multi-faceted approach that can include:
- An interview with the patient
- Interviews with teachers, parents, and other adults (if the patient is a child or adolescent)
- School records
- A detailed work history
- Reviewing your medical and mental health history records
- An observation of your behaviors during the evaluation (in some cases, providers may visit schools to observe children)
- Neuropsychological testing
- Questionnaires
Most providers won’t need to conduct every type of assessment to be able to diagnose you with ADHD. Often, an initial interview and observation may be enough.
During the evaluation interview(s), the psychiatrist may ask you questions like:
- Do you have difficulty staying focused on tasks?
- Are you forgetful in daily activities?
- Do you frequently interrupt others in conversations?
- Do you have a hard time with time management?
- What are some of your challenges in your relationships or at school/work?
- Have these symptoms been persistent for at least six months?
Remember to answer these questions honestly. If you don’t know or need to think about the answer, don’t be afraid to say so. The point isn’t to “prove” to the psychiatrist that you have ADHD. It’s to provide them with the most accurate picture of your experience so that they can make the right diagnosis.
Like other mental health professionals, most psychiatrists diagnose ADHD according to diagnostic criteria. While they’re evaluating you, they’ll be looking for signs that match the core ADHD symptoms.
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Why choose a psychiatrist for a diagnosis
Psychiatrists, psychologists, nurse practitioners, pediatricians, and general providers can all diagnose ADHD. But there are specific benefits to seeing a psychiatrist for this. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions. They can prescribe medication which is often an essential part of managing ADHD.
Working with a psychiatrist who specializes in ADHD is important because, for some people, ADHD symptoms don’t present in the “typical” way. For example, women with ADHD are underdiagnosed in childhood. Psychiatrists are trained to identify ADHD symptoms that might be missed by nonspecialists.
Another reason to choose a psychiatrist is because they’ll be able to prescribe you with ADHD medication, which is one of the most effective treatment methods. So you may not need to see another provider to get the treatment you need.
What to expect when getting diagnosed with ADHD
Here are some other factors to keep in mind when you’re going through the process of getting an ADHD diagnosis.
How long does an ADHD diagnosis take?
A thorough ADHD assessment is a multi-faceted process. A psychiatrist who specializes in ADHD treatment will likely spend at least an hour with you. They’ll review your records to determine if you might be experiencing ADHD symptoms, the symptoms of another mental health condition, or both. This process may require multiple visits.
Can you get an online diagnosis?
Many psychiatrists provide online assessment and treatment services. Research shows that telehealth for ADHD treatment is effective, although there are special concerns when diagnosing and treating children that may indicate in-person evaluation and treatment are needed.
If your assessment is conducted online, keep in mind that since the psychiatrist may not be able to observe your behaviors as closely, they may need to ask you additional questions to get a better understanding of what you’re going through.
What to do if you don’t get an ADHD diagnosis
It can be disappointing if you’ve felt certain you’re living with ADHD but your provider doesn’t agree with your self-diagnosis. This can be a tricky balance to navigate.
Psychiatrists are specially trained to diagnose ADHD and other mental health conditions. If they don’t believe you are experiencing ADHD, or if they think you live with another mental health condition, it’s important to take this seriously.
On the other hand, you know yourself best. Also, ADHD is historically under or misdiagnosed, especially in certain populations. Not all psychiatrists are experts in ADHD. You have the right to get a second opinion.
Next steps after receiving a diagnosis
If you do get diagnosed with ADHD after your assessment, your psychiatrist should guide you in terms of next steps. Medication and behavioral therapy are effective treatment methods for ADHD.
One of the benefits of seeing a psychiatrist for a diagnosis (rather than a psychologist or another mental health professional) is that they can prescribe medication. If you and your provider agree that medication may be a good option for you, you won’t need a referral to another provider.
If you decide you want additional support for ADHD, like therapy or coaching, your psychiatric provider will likely make a referral. Some psychiatrists may provide therapy themselves, but many don’t.
When seeking an evaluation for ADHD from a psychiatric provider, it’s important to be patient with the process. It can be challenging to wait longer for relief. But it’s so important to consider other factors that could contribute to or explain your symptoms. Then your diagnosis and treatment plan can be as accurate and effective as possible.
Find care with Rula
Getting an ADHD diagnosis is a thorough process that a psychiatrist can help with. It’s important to work with a psychiatrist who specializes in ADHD for an accurate diagnosis. If you don’t receive the diagnosis you expect, consider seeking a second opinion.
At Rula, we’re committed to delivering a comprehensive behavioral health experience that helps people feel seen and understood so they can get back to feeling their best.
Rula makes it easier to find a licensed therapist or psychiatric provider who accepts your insurance, so you don’t have to choose between affordable care and excellent care. With a diverse network of more than 15,000 providers, 24/7 crisis support, and appointments available as soon as tomorrow, we’re here to help you make progress — wherever you are on your mental health journey.
About the author
Saya Des Marais
Saya graduated with her Master in Social Work (MSW) with a concentration in mental health from the University of Southern California in 2010. She formerly worked as a therapist and motivational interviewing trainer in community clinics, public schools, mental health startups, and more.
Her writing has been featured in FORTUNE, GoodRX, PsychCentral, and dozens of mental health apps and therapy websites. Through both her clinical work and her personal OCD diagnosis, she’s learned the importance of making empathetic and accurate mental health content available online.
She lives in Portland, Oregon but you can find her almost just as often in Mexico or in her birthplace, Tokyo.
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