Adults are often assessed and diagnosed with ADHD by a psychologist who performs a psychoeducational assessment, or by a family physician, pediatrician, nurse practitioner, psychiatrist, or neurologist, who performs a medical assessment. To determine the best type of assessment it would be helpful to have a discussion with a primary care provider.
Adult ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) is often diagnosed by a health care provider who conducts a psychoeducational assessment or a medical assessment.
A psychoeducational assessment, completed by a psychologist, is often sought to determine whether ADHD is impacting learning and performance at school/work. After an extensive number of tests, this assessment provides information on how a person best learns and how a person could be supported academically, socially, and emotionally. Recommendations for non-medication management of ADHD is provided.
A medical assessment, completed by a family physician, pediatrician, nurse practitioner, psychiatrist, or neurologist, often involves a review of medical history, educational history, symptoms, and quality of daily function. Recommendations for non-medication treatments and medication treatments for ADHD are provided.
Each professional brings a different set of expertise to the assessment process. Psychological assessments specialize in understanding behavioral and cognitive aspects, while medical assessments focus more on medical management. While both diagnose ADHD, it is important to understand management goals to decide which of the two assessments is most appropriate.
As a starting point, it is always best to begin the conversation with a primary care provider such as a physician, nurse practitioner or psychotherapist/counsellor. They can provide guidance through the process, recommend the appropriate type of ADHD assessment, and help set reasonable expectations.
About the Author
Dr. Gurdeep Parhar, a Clinical Professor at UBC Faculty of Medicine and Medical Director of the Adult ADHD Centre, specializes in ADHD assessments, treatment, and education. He has received numerous awards for his contributions to medicine, teaching, and research on disabilities. Centre For ADHD Awareness, Canada: https://caddac.ca/about-adhd/in-general