Finding an ADHD Specialist: Psychiatrist vs Psychologist vs Primary Care - Part 2

their instincts, but your comfort with a provider matters enormously. If a provider makes you feel rushed, judged, or unheard, trust that feeling. The right provider should make you feel understood and hopeful. Don't stay with a provider who isn't working just because finding another feels overwhelming – your mental health is worth the effort of switching. ### Frequently Asked Questions About ADHD Specialists Q: Should I see a psychiatrist or psychologist first for ADHD evaluation? It depends on your primary needs and local availability. If you want comprehensive testing and are willing to wait longer, start with a psychologist who specializes in ADHD. If you need medication management quickly and are confident about ADHD, a psychiatrist might be more appropriate. Many adults see a psychologist for evaluation, then add a psychiatrist for medication management if needed. Q: Can my regular doctor diagnose and treat ADHD? Some primary care providers are comfortable diagnosing and treating straightforward adult ADHD, especially if they have specific training or experience. However, many prefer to refer to specialists for initial diagnosis. If your PCP is willing to manage ADHD medication after specialist diagnosis, this can be a convenient option for ongoing care. Always ask about their comfort level and experience with adult ADHD. Q: How do I know if an online ADHD service is legitimate? Legitimate telehealth ADHD services conduct thorough evaluations lasting at least 60-90 minutes, use validated assessment tools, review your history comprehensively, and offer ongoing care rather than one-time prescriptions. Be wary of services promising diagnosis in under 30 minutes, guaranteeing medication, or not requiring video consultations. Check if providers are licensed in your state and read reviews from multiple sources. Q: What if I can't afford a specialist? Explore sliding-scale providers through Open Path Collective or local mental health centers. University psychology clinics often offer reduced-cost evaluations with supervised doctoral students. Some psychiatry residency programs have low-cost clinics. Consider starting with your PCP if they're willing to evaluate ADHD. Online services, while variable in quality, may be more affordable than traditional specialists. Q: Should I mention suspecting ADHD when booking appointments? Yes, absolutely. Being upfront about seeking ADHD evaluation helps ensure you're matched with appropriate providers and allows adequate time to be scheduled. Some practices have specific providers who handle ADHD evaluations. Mentioning ADHD also allows you to gauge the scheduler's response – dismissive or discouraging reactions might indicate the practice isn't ADHD-friendly. Q: How many providers should I interview before choosing one? There's no magic number, but talking to 2-3 providers gives you comparison points without overwhelming yourself. If the first provider seems knowledgeable and you feel comfortable, it's okay to stop there. However, if you have specific needs or concerns, interviewing multiple providers helps ensure good fit. Balance thoroughness with the reality that perfect providers don't exist. ### Resources and Next Steps Armed with knowledge about different provider types, you're ready to begin your search for an ADHD specialist. Remember that finding the right provider is a process, not a one-time event. Your needs may evolve, and it's okay to change providers if your current one isn't meeting those needs. Immediate Action Steps: 1. Identify your top three priorities for ADHD care (e.g., diagnosis, medication, therapy) 2. Check your insurance coverage for different provider types 3. Create your simple provider tracking spreadsheet 4. Set aside one hour this week to research three potential providers Provider Directories and Resources: - Psychology Today: Searchable directory with detailed profiles - CHADD Provider Directory: Professionals with ADHD expertise - APSARD: American Professional Society of ADHD and Related Disorders - Your insurance company's provider search tool - Local hospital systems' physician finders Questions to Ask Potential Providers: 1. How many adults with ADHD do you currently treat? 2. What is your evaluation process for adult ADHD? 3. How do you differentiate ADHD from other conditions? 4. What treatment approaches do you offer beyond medication? 5. Are you comfortable coordinating care with other providers? 6. What is your approach when standard treatments don't work? Building Your Care Team: Remember that ADHD care often works best with a team approach. Your team might include: - A diagnostician (psychologist or psychiatrist) for initial evaluation - A prescriber (psychiatrist, PCP, or psychiatric NP) for medication - A therapist for ongoing support and skill development - An ADHD coach for practical strategies - Support groups for peer connection The provider you choose will significantly impact your ADHD journey, but remember that you're not locked into your choice forever. Many adults with ADHD work with different providers over time as their needs change. The key is starting somewhere rather than waiting for the perfect provider to appear. With the right professional support, you can move from struggling in silence to thriving with ADHD. The next chapter will prepare you for what to expect during the evaluation process itself, helping you make the most of your appointment with your chosen provider.