You're pretty sure you have ADHD. Maybe you've known for years. Maybe it just clicked last week. Either way, the next question is always the same: who do I actually go to for this?
The short answer: several types of providers can diagnose ADHD and prescribe medication. But they're not all equal in experience, wait times, or how well they understand ADHD in adults. Here's the honest breakdown.
Providers who can prescribe ADHD medication
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in mental health. They can diagnose ADHD, prescribe stimulants and non-stimulants, and manage complex cases where ADHD overlaps with anxiety, depression, or other conditions. If your situation is complicated, a psychiatrist is your best bet. The downside? Wait times. Many psychiatrists are booked 4--8 weeks out.
Psychiatric nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) have advanced training in mental health and full prescribing authority in most states. They follow the same diagnostic criteria and prescribing guidelines as psychiatrists. For straightforward ADHD cases, the quality of care is equivalent--often with shorter wait times.
Primary care doctors (PCPs) can evaluate ADHD and prescribe medication, especially for adults with clear-cut symptoms. Your family doctor is a reasonable first stop if you need help quickly. However, PCPs manage hundreds of conditions and may not have deep ADHD expertise. If your first medication doesn't work or your symptoms are complicated, they'll likely refer you to a specialist.
Pediatricians handle ADHD frequently in children and teens. If you're a parent concerned about your child, your pediatrician can start the evaluation process and prescribe first-line medications.
Physician assistants (PAs) can prescribe ADHD medications in most states, typically under a supervising physician. Like nurse practitioners, their practical scope covers standard ADHD evaluation and treatment.
Who can NOT prescribe ADHD medication
This trips people up. Psychologists, therapists, counselors, and social workers cannot prescribe medication. They can diagnose ADHD and provide therapy, but they don't have prescribing authority (with rare exceptions in a few states for psychologists with extra training).
If you're already working with a therapist who suspects ADHD, they can refer you to a prescribing provider. Some clinics have both under one roof. ADHD One, for example, pairs evaluation with treatment planning so you don't have to bounce between multiple offices.
What the evaluation looks like
Regardless of which provider you see, a proper ADHD evaluation follows the same basic structure:
Clinical interview: Your provider asks about your symptoms, when they started, and how they affect work, school, and relationships. This is the most important part. Be specific--"I miss deadlines every week" tells them more than "I have trouble focusing."
Symptom checklists: Most providers use standardized screening tools like the ASRS (Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale) or Conners' Rating Scales. These aren't pass/fail tests--they help quantify what you're experiencing.
Rule-outs: Your provider checks whether something else could explain your symptoms--anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, or thyroid issues can all mimic ADHD. This isn't about gatekeeping. It's about getting the right diagnosis so you get the right treatment.
History review: DSM-5 criteria require that some symptoms were present before age 12. Your provider may ask about childhood behavior, school reports, or past evaluations. You don't need a formal childhood diagnosis--just evidence that these patterns aren't brand new.
The whole process typically takes 45--60 minutes for adults. At ADHD One, many patients complete their evaluation and leave with a treatment plan within a single appointment.
Stimulants, non-stimulants, or both?
Once diagnosed, your provider will discuss medication options. The two main categories:
Stimulants (Adderall, Vyvanse, Concerta, Ritalin, Mydayis) are first-line treatment for most patients. They work by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine--the brain chemicals responsible for focus and impulse control. Stimulants work fast (often within the first dose) and have decades of research behind them.
Non-stimulants (Strattera, Qelbree, Intuniv, Kapvay) are alternatives for patients who don't tolerate stimulants, have anxiety that stimulants worsen, or have a history of substance use. They take longer to reach full effect (2--6 weeks) but carry no abuse potential.
Your provider will start with a low dose of whichever medication makes the most clinical sense, then adjust based on how you respond. This process takes a few weeks. Don't judge a medication by the first three days.
Do you need a referral?
Usually no. Most ADHD providers accept self-referred patients. You can book directly with a psychiatrist, PMHNP, or an ADHD-focused clinic without a referral from your PCP.
The exception: some insurance plans (especially HMOs) require a referral before covering specialist visits. Check your plan or call your insurance company to confirm before booking.
The fastest path from "I think I have ADHD" to treatment
If you want to move quickly and get real answers, here's the most efficient path:
1. Start with a screening. Our free ADHD screening tool takes two minutes and uses the same validated scale doctors use. It won't diagnose you, but it'll tell you whether a full evaluation makes sense.
2. Book with an ADHD specialist. A provider who focuses on ADHD will be faster, more accurate, and more familiar with the medication landscape than a generalist. At ADHD One, evaluations happen the same day--not weeks from now.
3. Prepare for your appointment. Write down your symptoms, when they started, and how they affect daily life. Bring past medical records if you have them. The more specific you are, the faster your evaluation goes.
Take a free 2-minute screening to see if an ADHD evaluation makes sense for you.
Take the Free ADHD Test →Frequently asked questions
Can my regular doctor prescribe Adderall?
Yes. Family doctors, internists, and general practitioners can prescribe Adderall and other ADHD stimulants if they determine it's clinically right. For straightforward cases, this works well. If your symptoms are complex or overlap with other conditions, your PCP may refer you to a provider or mental health nurse practitioner for specialized management.
Do I need a formal ADHD diagnosis to get medication?
Yes. Responsible providers require a proper clinical check-up before prescribing ADHD medication--especially stimulants, which are controlled substances. This protects you. A rushed prescription without a real check-up means you might be treating the wrong condition. The check-up process at ADHD One is thorough and designed to fit your schedule.
Can a therapist diagnose ADHD?
Psychologists can formally diagnose ADHD through neuropsychological testing and clinical interviews. However, they cannot prescribe medication. Therapists, counselors, and social workers can identify symptoms and refer you, but they typically don't provide a formal diagnosis. For a one-stop solution, an ADHD-focused clinic with prescribing providers covers both diagnosis and treatment.
How much does an ADHD check-up cost?
Costs vary widely. Insurance-covered check-ups may just require a copay ($20--$75). Without insurance, expect $200--$500 for a standard check-up with a prescribing provider. Neuropsychological testing (done by psychologists) can run $1,000--$3,000. For most adults, a clinical check-up with a provider or PMHNP is sufficient--you don't always need extensive testing.
Can I get ADHD medication prescribed through a video appointment?
Yes. Licensed providers can diagnose ADHD and prescribe both stimulant and non-stimulant medications through secure video check-ups, following current DEA and state guidelines. This is how most ADHD One appointments work--you connect with a provider from home, complete your check-up, and if medication is right, it's sent to your pharmacy the same day.