ADHD can be diagnosed by various healthcare professionals who have training and experience in evaluating the disorder. These include:
- Psychiatrists (medical doctors specialized in mental health) who can diagnose ADHD, prescribe medications, and develop treatment plans
- Psychologists who conduct assessments and diagnose ADHD but typically do not prescribe medication
- Pediatricians and family doctors (primary care providers) who can evaluate symptoms and diagnose ADHD, especially in children
- Neurologists who may diagnose ADHD, particularly when neurological factors are considered
- Nurse practitioners and physician assistants under supervision of a physician, who can diagnose and sometimes prescribe treatment
- Licensed clinical social workers, counselors, and therapists who may diagnose ADHD depending on their training and licensure
The diagnostic process usually involves a comprehensive evaluation including interviews, behavioral rating scales, medical history, and ruling out other conditions with similar symptoms
. Since ADHD diagnosis requires expertise, it is recommended to see a professional with specific training in ADHD assessment and treatment
. In summary, ADHD diagnosis can be made by psychiatrists, psychologists, pediatricians, family doctors, neurologists, nurse practitioners, and some licensed mental health professionals, with psychiatrists and pediatricians being among the most common diagnosticians
