Talking To A Counselor About Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Medically reviewed by April Justice, LICSW
Updated April 12, 2024by BetterHelp Editorial Team
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, also known as ADHD, is a common, chronic condition that includes attention difficulty, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness. There are common signs of ADHD, but every situation varies and people with the disorder can have unique symptoms. Getting a proper diagnosis from someone qualified to do so is vital for receiving proper treatment.
Have you or your child been diagnosed with ADHD?
Who can diagnose attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder?
If you think you or your child might have ADHD, it is important to seek a professional in the field so that they can give a correct assessment and diagnosis. Not all mental health providers are able to diagnose mental health disorders, so it can help to know what to look for if you’re seeking an evaluation.
Psychologists, psychiatrists, or physicians are the types of health professionals who are most equipped and able to diagnose ADHD in both children and adults. Clinical social workers and nurse practitioners can also make a diagnosis. Therapists with a master’s degree are recommended by experts for initial-level screening only.
Unlike other disorders, you can't recognize ADHD by undergoing a brain scan, blood test, or other medical test. Instead, the patient must go through a clinical interview with any of the aforementioned professionals who are trained to recognize, evaluate, and diagnose ADHD. Only professionals can determine whether you have ADHD; not by taking a "Do I have ADHD quiz" online.
When looking for a professional, consider limiting your search to those who have experience with ADHD. If your primary care provider cannot diagnose ADHD, they will likely refer you to someone who can. You can also perform an internet search for “ADHD specialists near me”. If you’re using your health insurance provider’s site, you may be able to filter results so that you only see professionals who treat ADHD.
Can a therapist diagnose ADHD?
Psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, educational specialists, counselors, and a variety of other mental health professionals can work as therapists. This means that, in many cases, a therapist can diagnose ADHD. However, the professionals who are most often responsible for providing diagnoses—particularly psychiatrists, family doctors, and nurse practitioners—typically do not administer therapy. Often, the person who diagnoses ADHD is one of several professionals who will help an individual manage their symptoms. For example, a primary care physician may provide an initial assessment and diagnosis, then refer the individual to a psychiatrist, who can prescribe medications, and a psychologist, who can provide therapy.
How is ADHD diagnosed?
According to the Brain and Behavior Research Foundation, for a medical doctor or other professional to diagnose ADHD, a patient must have at least six symptoms. These symptoms must be present for at least six months or longer. Since ADHD manifests itself in children, the symptoms must be present before the age of 7, whether it is recognized and diagnosed in children or in adults. Finally, ADHD symptoms must cause significant impairment or difficulties in two or more settings. These settings include school, work, home, and social situations.
For adults, getting diagnosed with ADHD may be a bit more in-depth. According to specialists at Johns Hopkins University, diagnosing ADHD in an adult takes more time because many times adults may have the symptoms of ADHD but do not have the disorder. For an adult, a diagnosis of ADHD is made in a clinical interview that occurs over the course of an hour. As mentioned before, ADHD manifests itself in childhood. Therefore, for an adult with undiagnosed ADHD, the symptoms must be tracked from adulthood back to childhood. Many times, an adult with ADHD also has another psychiatric disorder with it, such as a mood disorder or anxiety. As a result, the mental health professional assessing the patient must sort out which symptoms belong to which disorder, as some can pertain to both.
The World Health Organization endorsed a six-question screening test. This screening test was reported by the Journal of the American Medical Association as one that, based on their studies, could reliably help identify and diagnose adults with ADHD. While it is cautioned that it cannot always be that simple, it is a starting block to use for recognizing that you may have the disorder. If you’ve taken an assessment, an ADHD specialist can help interpret your results and determine whether further testing is necessary.
ADHD symptoms and causes
The National Institute of Mental Health and the National Institutes of Health have researchers who study the causes of ADHD. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, "current research suggests ADHD may be caused by interactions between genes and environmental or non-genetic factors." While this is not the most conclusive answer, the institution believes that a number of factors can contribute to ADHD. Some of these factors include brain injuries, low birth weight, genes, exposure to environmental toxins at a young age, and unhealthy substance intake during pregnancy, such as smoking, alcohol, or drug usage.
ADHD begins to show its symptoms in childhood. However, it is not a disorder that ends with childhood but rather can be present into adulthood. Symptoms of ADHD include difficulty in paying attention, controlling impulsive behaviors, sitting still, and being overactive.
In children, ADHD can influence how a child functions in school. They may continuously interrupt others when speaking, feel the need to constantly move, and consistently overlook details. This can cause children to make mistakes while doing homework. They also may seem to not listen when they are being spoken to directly and fail to follow instructions, whether it is schoolwork, chores, or anything else.
Children with ADHD many times will start a task but then get distracted and never go back to finishing it. They can also fidget regularly, talk nonstop, blurt out answers before it is their turn to speak, or have the need to get up and move in settings where they should not be, such as during class. While these symptoms many times equate to ADHD, they do not always mean that you or your child have ADHD.
ADHD treatment
If you or your child have been diagnosed with ADHD, there are various treatment options you can consider. Although there is no known cure, there are ways to manage the symptoms to minimize their effect on your life.
The type of treatment you receive often largely depends on the doctor and your specific needs. Treatments range from behavioral intervention to prescription medication. Many times, medication is an important part of treating ADHD in teens, children, and adults. This is an important decision to make if you are the parent of a child with ADHD. There are various types of ADHD medications, so it’s important to have a thorough discussion with your doctor about what is best for your child. ADHD medications fall into two main categories: stimulants and non-stimulants.
ADHD research shows that medication can help improve concentration and focus. While stimulant medications are perhaps the most well-known drugs for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, there are other medications available as well. Some medications can also help improve attention and memory.
There can be risks with any medication, so it’s important to look into the potential side effects before choosing one. The side effects of these medications can include headaches, dry mouth, weight loss, upset stomach, and trouble sleeping. Since every person's body reacts differently to different medications, keeping an eye on how it is affecting you or your child is vital. Continuing to consult with your doctor is also a crucial step in the process of treating ADHD. Working alongside your healthcare provider, you can pick the option that seems most effective and promising for you or your child’s situation. If a certain medication doesn’t work as expected, you can talk to your doctor about switching to something else.
Psychotherapy or behavioral therapy is often used alongside medication to manage the symptoms of ADHD. For children or adults living with ADHD, coping and figuring out how to work through certain behaviors can be constructive, and this can be done with the guidance of a mental health professional. Research suggests that an online or in-person therapist who specializes in ADHD can offer a safe space for you or your child to freely express yourselves. You can also talk about your experience as a parent of a child who has ADHD without the fear of being judged. As an adult with ADHD, you can work through difficult situations you have gone through because of ADHD and learn techniques to minimize the impact of ADHD on your life.
Before choosing a therapist, do some research to make sure the mental health professional that you entrust yourself or your child to has experience in managing and treating ADHD. You can find this out by asking them how many clients with ADHD they have seen, how they assess a patient, how they treat a patient, and what kind of training they have received.
Have you or your child been diagnosed with ADHD?
ADHD management
If you are the parent of a child who has ADHD, there are support groups that can connect you with other parents in similar situations. Support groups can be effective resources for ideas and parenting strategies needed in everyday life with your child as you, too, navigate this chapter.
Adults with ADHD have support groups as well. This can be a tremendous source of support because sometimes adults are lost in the conversation. Groups are either face-to-face or online. Connecting with other adults who have similar experiences can help to alleviate feelings of isolation. Some people have dealt with the symptoms of ADHD for years without knowing it. A support group can provide an individual with a safe area to address what life was like for them, especially as a child.
As mentioned previously, every treatment plan is case-dependent, so it is important to talk to your doctor about your options. This can help you gain more information when deciding which treatment(s) will work most effectively for you or your child. If you’d like to learn more about the disorder, you can also find medically reviewed informational articles and other resources online.
Online therapy with BetterHelp
Those with ADHD can live healthy, happy, and productive lives. Everyone faces challenges now and then, and it can be helpful to have someone to confide in when those obstacles arise. You can connect with an online therapist through the BetterHelp platform whenever you feel ready.
Some people feel more comfortable at home than anywhere else. This can be especially true for those with ADHD since they can rearrange their living space according to their needs and preferences. Your home might be the most ideal place to receive therapy, which is why many people turn to online therapy to get care. You can meet according to your availability and can get connected in the way that’s most convenient for you. Whether that’s through a phone call, video chat, or in-app messaging session, online therapy allows you to have more control over your experience.
The efficacy of online therapy
Online therapy has been shown to be just as effective as traditional, in-person therapy. One study assessed the efficacy of an internet-based program for treating those with ADHD. Researchers found that the online intervention improved attention and social functioning in both adults and children living with ADHD. These results show the effectiveness of online-based interventions for managing ADHD.
Below are a couple of counselor reviews from people experiencing similar issues.
Counselor reviews
“After only one video session and some messaging, I can tell she is very good at what she does. I needed help with ADHD and coping and so far I think we are on a great path!”
“We have only just started but I have had several concerns she helped me concentrate on the top 3 to work with first, set goals to help with those thing [sic] that are bothering me the most. She has given me exercises to try and checks in on me.”
Takeaway
ADHD is most commonly diagnosed in children, but adults can also have the disorder. Being aware of the signs of ADHD can be helpful, as is reaching out to a qualified professional should you have concerns about yourself or your child. Getting a correct diagnosis is important as the treatment plan depends on the specific disorder and symptoms that are present. Working with a qualified online therapist may help you or your child achieve a healthier, more productive outlook on life and manage symptoms more effectively.
Frequently asked questions
Read more below for answers to questions commonly asked about this topic.
How does a therapist identify ADHD?
The principal guidelines for diagnosing ADHD are listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM). The DSM is the primary source of diagnostic information used by mental health professionals in the United States. It provides examples of behaviors that are common to each ADHD subtype. A person must exhibit at least some of those behaviors to qualify for a diagnosis of ADHD.
In the past, it was not unheard of for medical professionals and mental health practitioners to diagnose ADHD simply by listing the symptoms and having a person (or their parents, if a child was being diagnosed) report whether or not they exhibit a specific behavior. Today, ADHD diagnoses are typically much more rigorous.
A therapist or other licensed healthcare professional will usually begin the diagnostic process by obtaining a thorough history and conducting a clinical interview designed to assess for symptoms of ADHD and rule out other mental health conditions. They will likely use tests like ADHD rating scales, cognitive assessments, and tests of specific abilities to determine if ADHD is the likely source of symptoms. If all of the details agree that ADHD is the most likely cause, a diagnosis will be given.
Can my therapist tell if I have ADHD?
Your therapist will not diagnose you with ADHD without a thorough evaluation. However, many therapists, especially those who work extensively with ADHD patients, may be able to get a “sense” of your condition. They may recommend that you receive an ADHD evaluation, but without hard details, most qualified therapists will not speculate on their patient’s condition, even if their gut tells them that ADHD is likely.
Who is qualified give an ADHD diagnosis?
Many healthcare professionals are able to diagnose ADHD, but many are electing to refer to specialists as diagnostic standards become more rigorous. Medical doctors, nurse practitioners, psychologists, and therapists or counselors are all capable of making an ADHD diagnosis, but many believe that additional training and experience are required to be truly qualified. While many types of healthcare professionals are qualified diagnose ADHD, only certain medical professionals are able to prescribe the medication used to treat it.
Medical doctors, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants are able to diagnose and treat ADHD using medication, although special training may be required. Professional counselors and therapists - including occupational therapists and family therapists - often help treat ADHD by providing behavioral strategies for managing it. It is increasingly common for therapists and medical providers to work together to help a person manage ADHD using a two-pronged approach.
Who do I see if I think I have ADHD?
Many people begin their ADHD journey by speaking with their primary care provider. While very few PCPs specialize in the treatment of ADHD, most are happy to provide referrals to those who have a better understanding of the condition. A PCP may also help with the medical management of ADHD and may feel comfortable prescribing medication after you receive an evaluation from a specialist. They are also in a good position to help rule out other medical conditions that may be contributing to your symptoms and often work in consultation with ADHD specialists or other mental health practitioners. It is important to remember to consult with your insurance company to avoid surprise bills for services.
Why won't my psychiatrist diagnose me with ADHD?
If your psychiatrist won’t diagnose you with ADHD, they likely feel another condition is responsible for your symptoms or that the symptom severity does not rise to the level of ADHD. They might know from your history that your symptoms began too recently to be ADHD or that you have consistently struggled with other issues that may cause similar symptoms. If you feel sure you have ADHD, you could always request a second opinion from another medical provider.
How do I get tested for ADHD?
Getting tested for ADHD begins with locating a qualified professional to conduct the evaluation. People commonly seek referrals from their primary care physician, who will typically send their patient to a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist who specializes in ADHD. In the past, some primary care providers felt comfortable diagnosing ADHD using standard forms or clinical interviews, but it is increasingly common for a primary care provider to refer their patient to a specialist, especially if the patient is seeking medication.
What does an ADHD test look like for adults?
There is no single test to evaluate ADHD in either children or adults. When done correctly, the diagnostic process typically involves a comprehensive evaluation that lasts several hours. A qualified professional will take a detailed history and spend a lot of time discussing the childhood of the person they are evaluating. A person must have shown signs of ADHD before the age of 12 to be diagnosed, so most adults spend a good deal of time talking about symptoms that appeared when they were young.
The clinician will likely also use rating scales, computerized testing, and clinical interviews to help pin down the symptoms’ source. Evaluations usually occur over several sessions and may last eight hours or more. The detail is analyzed by the clinician, who is likely specifically trained to assess for ADHD. If all the details agree that ADHD is the most likely cause of a person’s concerns, they will likely give a diagnosis.
Should I talk to a therapist if I think I have ADHD?
You should talk to a therapist if you think you have ADHD. Could a therapist diagnose someone with ADHD? Yes, if they are appropriately qualified. Is a therapist able to prescribe medication to treat ADHD? Almost certainly not. It is becoming increasingly common for ADHD evaluations to be performed by psychologists and therapists who then work alongside medical practitioners as part of a treatment team to determine if ADHD medication is necessary. Therapists might provide evaluation and behavioral treatment, while a medical provider helps their patient find a combination and dosage of medication that works for them.
Why is it so hard to get an ADHD diagnosis?
It is likely hard to get an ADHD diagnosis because many people obtain psychostimulant medication to treat the symptoms once diagnosed. Stimulant medications, like Adderall, Ritalin, Vyvanse, and Concerta, may all produce feelings of euphoria and energy when taken for recreational purposes. Because of this, stimulants have a high street value and are frequently taken for nonmedical purposes. Many people likely seek ADHD diagnoses not because their symptoms are overwhelming but because they would like to get those medications.
Does untreated ADHD get worse with age?
Generally, ADHD does not worsen with age. However, it is possible for comorbid disorders or life circumstances to exacerbate symptoms across the lifespan. It is possible that someone with untreated ADHD could navigate their lives well until they encounter a new challenge or obstacle.
For example, consider someone who previously functioned well at their job as a construction worker. In middle age, they are promoted to an office position within the construction company. Their symptoms might be exacerbated by their new sedentary work environment; evidence suggests that ADHD symptoms reduce in response to physical activity. Now that they spend all day at a desk, they may find it harder to function due to reduced physical activity and increased demands on their concentration.
- Previous Article
- Next Article
Gain a better understanding of ADHD
The information on this page is not intended to be a substitution for diagnosis, treatment, or informed professional advice. You should not take any action or avoid taking any action without consulting with a qualified mental health professional. For more information, please read our terms of use.
Search
Get the support you need from one of our therapistsGet started