Who Can Diagnose ADHD? Talking About Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Symptoms
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.
Who can diagnose ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder)?
If you think you or your child might have ADHD, seek a professional in the field so that they can give a correct assessment and diagnosis. Not all mental health providers can diagnose mental health disorders, so knowing what to look for if you’re seeking an evaluation can be helpful.
Psychologists, psychiatrists, and primary care physicians are among the professionals commonly qualified to diagnose ADHD in both children and adults. Clinical social workers and nurse practitioners may also diagnose ADHD, depending on their credentials, training, and state laws. Some master’s-level therapists may screen for ADHD or participate in evaluation, but diagnostic authority varies by license and state law.
Finding the right professional
Unlike some other disorders, you can't recognize ADHD by undergoing a brain scan, blood test, or other medical test. Instead, the client 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 just 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 may 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?
Some therapists may be qualified to diagnose ADHD, depending on their license, training, and state laws. Different professionals may play different roles in diagnosis and treatment, and some provide both evaluation and therapy.
Medication management, covered by insurance
$20 average copay with insurance*
Connect with a psychiatrist*Medication is prescribed only when clinically appropriate and is not guaranteed. Pricing, availability, insurance coverage, and copays vary by plan, location, and provider availability are not guaranteed.
How is ADHD diagnosed?
According to the Brain and Behavior Research Foundation, for a medical doctor or other professional to diagnose ADHD, a client must have at least six symptoms. These symptoms must be present for at least six months or longer. Since ADHD often manifests itself in children, the symptoms must be present before the age of 12, 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 is more complex because adults may experience variable symptoms or have the symptoms of ADHD but not have the condition. For adults and children, a diagnosis of ADHD is made according to the DSM-5 criteria. However, in adults, it may be helpful to use a validated ADHD rating scales in a clinical interview to best assess adult ADHD symptoms. While ADHD often manifests itself in childhood, many adults were not diagnosed in childhood, even though symptoms were often present earlier. Many times, adults with ADHD also have one or more other mental health conditions as well, 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.
30,000+ therapists with diverse specialties
ADHD screening tests
The World Health Organization (WHO) 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 help identify adults who may need a fuller ADHD evaluation. While a screening test may not be the only way to understand if you have ADHD, it can be a starting point. If you’ve taken an assessment, an ADHD specialist can help interpret your results and determine whether further testing is recommended.
ADHD symptoms and causes
The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) 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 answer may not be the most conclusive, 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 substance use.
How ADHD manifests in children
In many cases, ADHD begins to show symptoms in childhood. However, it is not a disorder that always ends in childhood; increasing numbers of cases are present into adulthood. Symptoms of ADHD include difficulty in paying attention, controlling impulsive behaviors, sitting still, and being overactive.
In addition, ADHD can influence a child’s behavior and functioning in school. A child with ADHD may continuously interrupt others when speaking, move constantly, and overlook details, which can cause them 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 another command.
Children with ADHD may start a task but 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 get up and move in potentially inappropriate settings, such as during class. While these symptoms can be seen in ADHD, they do not always mean that you or your child has ADHD.
ADHD treatment
If you or your child has 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 medication management when clinically appropriate.
Medication for ADHD symptoms
Medication is often part of treating ADHD in teens, children, and adults. If you are the parent of a child with ADHD, deciding whether to choose medication can be difficult. There are various types of ADHD medications, so 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 improve concentration and focus. While stimulant medications are perhaps the most well-known medications for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, other medications are available as well. Some medications can also help improve attention and memory.
Any medication can have risks, so it's essential to look into the potential side effects before choosing one. ADHD medications can cause side effects, including headaches, dry mouth, weight loss, upset stomach, and trouble sleeping, among others. However, since every person's body reacts differently to different medications, it's vital to keep an eye on how it is affecting you or your child.
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 most effective and promising option 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 a different option.
BetterHelp now offers psychiatry services through UpLift as an additional care option alongside therapy. Psychiatry services may include medication management when clinically appropriate, based on a full evaluation by a licensed psychiatric provider. Medication availability and coverage may vary by member location, clinical appropriateness, and individual pharmacy/insurance benefits. Prescribing decisions are made by the treating clinicians. We do not guarantee that any specific medication will be prescribed or covered by a member’s insurance plan.
Psychotherapy for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
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 themselves. 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.
Mental health support options following an ADHD diagnosis
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 to find an accessible provider.
Some people feel more comfortable at home than anywhere else, especially those with ADHD, since they can rearrange their living space according to their needs and preferences. Your home might be the ideal place to receive therapy, so many people turn to online ADHD therapy to get care. You can meet according to your availability and connect 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.
Getting started with BetterHelp is simple:
- Take a short questionnaire. Answer a few quick questions about your goals, preferences, and the type of therapist you’d like to work with.
- Get matched quickly. In most cases, you can be matched with a licensed provider in as little as 48 hours.
- Start therapy on your terms. Schedule sessions by video, phone, or live chat, and join from anywhere you have an internet connection.
Finding the right therapist isn’t just important – it’s everything.
Find your matchOnline therapy
Research suggests online therapy can be as effective as in-person therapy in many cases. 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 adults and children with ADHD. These results show the effectiveness of online-based interventions for managing ADHD.
Takeaway
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-5). The DSM-5 is the primary source of diagnostic information used by mental health professionals in the United States and provides examples of behaviors that are common to each ADHD subtype. A person must meet a required number of criteria and show that symptoms cause meaningful impairment.
A therapist or other licensed healthcare professional may 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 may use tests like ADHD rating scales, cognitive assessments, and tests of specific abilities to determine if ADHD is the likely source of symptoms.
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 further ADHD evaluation to confirm a diagnosis.
Who can diagnose ADHD?
There are a number of healthcare professionals, including Medical doctors, nurse practitioners, psychologists, and some therapists or counselors may be qualified to diagnose ADHD, depending on their license and state laws. While many types of healthcare professionals are qualified to diagnose ADHD, only certain licensed medical providers can prescribe medication when clinically appropriate.
Medical doctors, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants can diagnose and treat ADHD using medication, although special training may be required. Professional counselors and therapists often help manage ADHD by providing behavioral strategies for managing symptoms. Therapists and medical providers may also work together to help a person manage ADHD.
Who do I see if I think I have ADHD?
Many people begin their ADHD journey by speaking with their primary care provider (PCP). While few PCPs may specialize in the treatment of ADHD, they may be 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 be comfortable discussing medication options after you receive an evaluation from a specialist. Providers can also be in a position to 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. Consult your insurance company to avoid surprise bills for mental health services.
Why won't my psychiatrist diagnose me with ADHD?
If your psychiatrist doesn’t diagnose you with ADHD, they may believe 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 medical 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 are sure you have ADHD, you can 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 may send them to a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist specializing in ADHD. In the past, some primary care providers may have been 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 medication management is being considered.
What does an ADHD test look like for adults?
There is no single test to evaluate ADHD in children or adults. When done correctly, the diagnostic process typically involves a comprehensive evaluation. A qualified professional will take a detailed history and spend a lot of time discussing the person's childhood, because many adults are diagnosed later in life even though symptoms often began earlier.
The clinician may also use rating scales, computerized testing, and clinical interviews to pinpoint the source of the symptoms. evaluations may take place over one or more sessions, depending on the provider and the complexity of the case. If all the details show that ADHD is the most likely cause of a person’s concerns, they may formalize a diagnosis.
Should I talk to a therapist if I think I have ADHD?
You can talk to a therapist if you think you have ADHD. It is becoming increasingly common for ADHD evaluations to be performed by psychologists and some licensed therapists who then work alongside medical practitioners as part of a treatment team to determine if medication may be appropriate. Therapists might provide evaluation and behavioral treatment, while a medical provider helps their patient consider a medication plan that works for them when clinically appropriate.
Why is it so hard to get an ADHD diagnosis?
Getting an accurate ADHD diagnosis may be difficult because symptoms can overlap with those of other conditions, and a careful evaluation is needed before treatment decisions are made. In addition, because some ADHD medications require close clinical oversight, providers may take extra care to ensure the diagnosis is accurate and that any medication plan is appropriate for the individual.
- Previous Article
- Next Article