I think I have ADHD as an adult. How do I get diagnosed?

You’re taking a good first step. Here’s a clear, practical plan for getting an adult ADHD diagnosis, what the evaluation usually looks like, and some specific services and resources you can use.

1. Do a quick self-check (optional)

• Complete the Adult ADHD Self‑Report Scale (ASRS) screener online (search “ASRS v1.1”) to see if your symptoms align with common adult ADHD patterns. This is only a screening tool — not a diagnosis.

1. Decide who to see

• Primary care provider (PCP): good first step. They can rule out medical causes (thyroid, sleep problems, medications), do basic labs if needed, and refer you to a specialist.
• Psychiatrist: can diagnose ADHD and prescribe medications.
• Clinical psychologist or neuropsychologist: can do a comprehensive psychological/neuropsychological evaluation (useful if the picture is complex or there are learning disabilities or cognitive concerns).
• ADHD coach or therapist (CBT for ADHD): helpful for management once diagnosed.

Where to find providers (specific services)

• Psychology Today (provider directory) — find local psychologists/psychiatrists and read therapist profiles.
• Zocdoc — search and book psychiatrists/PCPs quickly, filter by insurance and location.
• CHADD (chadd.org) and ADDA (add.org) — national ADHD organizations with provider directories, resources, and support groups.
• Telehealth services that offer ADHD evaluations and follow-up:
  • Done — telemedicine service focused on adult ADHD treatment (fast access to prescribers and medication management).
  • ADHD Online — structured online assessment and treatment for adult ADHD.
  • Talkiatry — telepsychiatry service that often covers ADHD evaluations and accepts insurance.
  • PlushCare — offers telepsychiatry appointments that may include ADHD assessment and medication management. (Check current availability, whether they prescribe controlled stimulants in your state, and whether they accept your insurance.)

1. What the diagnostic evaluation typically involves

• Clinical interview: current symptoms, how long they’ve been present, and how they impair work/relationships.
• Developmental history: evidence symptoms were present in childhood (DSM-5 requires symptoms by age 12, though the way they showed up can differ).
• Symptom rating scales: e.g., ASRS and others completed by you (and sometimes a partner or family member).
• Review of medical history, medications, sleep, substance use, and co-occurring psychiatric conditions (depression, anxiety).
• Collateral information when possible: school records, old report cards, or a family member’s observations.
• In some cases, neuropsychological testing to clarify diagnosis or coexisting learning/cognitive issues.

1. How to prepare for the appointment

• Make a short timeline of symptoms (when they started, how they’ve changed).
• Prepare examples of how symptoms affect daily life (work, relationships, finances).
• Bring any prior mental health records, school reports, or medication history.
• List current medications, supplements, caffeine and alcohol use.
• Note family history of ADHD or other mental health conditions.

1. What happens after diagnosis

• Discussion of treatment options: medications (stimulants and non-stimulants), psychotherapy (CBT for adult ADHD), coaching, lifestyle adjustments, and workplace/school accommodations.
• If you don’t want medication or it’s not appropriate, many effective non‑medication approaches exist (CBT, coaching, organizational strategies).

1. Practical considerations

• Insurance: psychiatrists and psychologists may or may not be in-network—ask your insurer and the clinic.
• Controlled stimulant prescriptions: many telehealth services will require an in-person visit or follow strict protocols depending on state laws. Confirm policies with any service you use.
• If symptoms are severe or you have suicidal thoughts, get immediate help (local emergency room or crisis line).

If you’d like, I can:

• Help you draft a short summary of your symptoms and examples to bring to the appointment.
• Search for psychiatric or psychological providers in your area (tell me your city/state or whether you prefer telehealth and if you have insurance).