Understanding who diagnoses ADHD is key to starting your journey. In the UK, ADHD can be diagnosed by a psychiatrist, psychologist, or a specialist paediatrician (for children). Each professional plays a distinct but important role.
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialise in mental health and are authorised to diagnose ADHD and prescribe medication. If you suspect ADHD and are experiencing significant functional impairment, a psychiatrist is often the quickest route to both diagnosis and treatment.
Psychologists, especially clinical or educational psychologists, often conduct more in-depth assessments. They may use cognitive testing to examine attention span, memory, and executive functioning. These insights are especially helpful when ADHD symptoms coexist with other learning difficulties or emotional challenges. While psychologists cannot prescribe medication, their evaluations are often a valuable part of the diagnostic process.
In the NHS, ADHD diagnosis is frequently handled by multidisciplinary teams made up of both psychiatrists and psychologists. This ensures a well-rounded evaluation that considers all aspects of a person’s mental, cognitive, and emotional health. In private practice, clinics may offer “combined assessments” that provide both psychiatric and psychological input.
Whichever route you choose, it’s important to ensure the clinician follows NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) guidelines and has experience working with ADHD. A thorough, accurate diagnosis can only come from someone who truly understands the complexities of the condition.
