Can My Primary Care Doctor Diagnose ADHD— or Do I Need a Psychological Evaluation?

Why many people start their ADHD journey with their doctor

If you’ve wondered about ADHD, your first step may have been talking to your primary care doctor. In some cases, doctors prescribe medication based on symptoms you describe. While this can provide short-term relief, it often leaves out the bigger picture.

So, can a primary care doctor diagnose ADHD—or do you need a psychologist for testing?

What your primary care doctor can do

• Basic screening – Asking a few questions about focus, restlessness, or forgetfulness.

• Medication trial – Prescribing ADHD medication to see if symptoms improve.

• Referrals – Recommending you see a mental health specialist if concerns are more complex.

This approach can help—but it has limitations.

The risks of a quick diagnosis

Primary care visits are short, often 15–20 minutes. That’s not enough time to rule out other conditions that mimic ADHD, like:

• Anxiety

• Depression

• Trauma

• Sleep disorders

• Autism spectrum differences

Without proper evaluation, people risk being misdiagnosed—or taking medication that isn’t safe or effective. For non-ADHD brains, stimulant medications can be dangerously addictive.

Why psychological evaluations provide more accurate diagnoses

A psychologist-led ADHD evaluation includes:

• Comprehensive interview

• Standardized attention and memory testing

• Developmental history review

• Differential diagnosis (to rule out other conditions)

• Written report + feedback session

This depth of assessment ensures the diagnosis is accurate, evidence-based, and useful for long-term support.

Doctors + psychologists: a team approach

The best care comes when your psychologist and doctor work together. Psychologists handle the evaluation and diagnosis; doctors manage prescriptions if appropriate. This collaboration provides both clarity and continuity of care.

Get the clarity with a psychological evaluation

At Restore Psychology, we offer professional ADHD and psychological evaluations for children, teens, and adults.

We accept Aetna, United Healthcare, and Anthem Blue Cross, plus private pay.

Schedule your ADHD evaluation today to get the clarity you need before making treatment decisions. Fill out the form below.