Verbatim response from Claude
Here are some good ways to get diagnosed as an adult:
Start with Your Primary Care Doctor
- Your regular physician can do an initial screening and refer you to a specialist
- This is often the easiest first step and may be covered by insurance
See a Specialist
- Psychiatrists are typically the best option - they can diagnose AND prescribe medication
- Psychologists can diagnose but not prescribe in most states
- Neuropsychologists can do comprehensive testing
Telehealth Options (Convenient & Fast)
- Cerebral - ADHD-focused telehealth, though has faced some scrutiny
- Done - specializes in ADHD assessment and treatment
- Talkiatry - connects you with psychiatrists who accept insurance
- Ahead - ADHD-specific platform
- Brightside - mental health platform with psychiatrists
What to Expect
- Questionnaires and self-report scales (like the Conners Adult ADHD Rating Scale)
- Discussion of childhood symptoms (ADHD must have started before age 12)
- Ruling out other conditions like anxiety or sleep disorders
Practical Tips
- Psychology Today's therapist finder (psychologytoday.com) lets you filter by specialty and insurance
- Bring notes about specific symptoms and how they affect your daily life
Would you like more detail on any of these options?