Who Can Diagnose and Treat ADHD?
When seeking a diagnosis of ADHD, many time people don’t know where to start or what to expect of the process. It would be easy if there were a blood test that could pinpoint ADHD or other mental disorders, but there isn’t. Instead, there are a series of assessments medical professionals use to determine if ADHD is present.
Many people begin the process with their family physician. Sometimes, this doctor may be informed about ADHD and be able to complete the process. Sometimes, your physician may refer you to a mental health professional for an evaluation.
There are several different types of medical professionals that may make a diagnosis of ADHD:
Psychiatrists
- Able to diagnose ADHD
- Can prescribe medication
- Can offer counseling or behavior training
Psychologists
- Able to diagnose ADHD
- Cannot prescribe medication
- Can offer counseling or behavior training
Pediatricians/Family Physicians
- Able to diagnose ADHD
- Can prescribe medication
- Cannot offer counseling or behavior training
Neurologists
- Able to diagnose ADHD
- Can prescribe medication
- Cannot offer counseling or behavior training
Clinical Social Workers
- Able to diagnose ADHD
- Cannot prescribe medication
- Can offer counseling or behavior training
No matter which health professional you choose to work with, it is important to choose one that has experience and training in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, and more specifically, the experience in treating either adult or child ADHD, based on your situation.
Although some individuals may feel uncomfortable questioning a medical professional about qualifications and past experience, it is an acceptable practice to speak to the doctor before setting an appointment and asking questions to determine if they are a good match for you.
Eileen Bailey is a freelance health writer. She is the author of What Went Right: Reframe Your Thinking for a Happier Now, Idiot’s Guide to Adult ADHD, Idiot’s Guide to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Essential Guide to Overcoming Obsessive Love, and Essential Guide to Asperger’s Syndrome. She can be found on Twitter @eileenmbailey and on Facebook at eileenmbailey.