ADHD is a neurological condition affecting millions, often leading to feelings of loneliness and frustration. Effective treatments exist, and finding a specialized psychiatrist is key. This guide helps you understand ADHD, its causes, symptoms, and treatment options, including finding local specialists.

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurological condition affecting millions of people worldwide. If you have ADHD, you know how lonely and frustrating it can feel. It might seem like nobody gets what you’re experiencing or how challenging it is to stay focused and organized.

But the good news is there are treatments to help you manage your symptoms. A part of the treatment process is finding a psychiatrist near you who specializes in treating ADHD, as they have the expertise necessary to guide you in the right direction.

Here, we’re going to give you guidance on how you can find a psychiatrist in your area who specializes in ADHD. But first, we’re going to take a closer look into ADHD and the possible treatment options a psychiatrist may adopt to help manage the condition effectively.

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Understanding ADHD

Approximately 8 million adults and 6 million children in the United States have ADHD, making it a significant challenge affecting both age groups. ADHD can significantly impact different areas of your life: How well you do in school, your performance at work, and even your relationships with others.

What causes ADHD?

ADHD is a complicated condition that involves a mix of genetic, brain, environmental, and developmental factors:

  • Genetic factors: ADHD can run in families, which means it may be passed down from parents to children. If someone in your family has ADHD, you might also have a higher chance of having it.
  • Neurological differences: The brain works differently in people with ADHD, especially in areas that control attention and impulses. These differences can make it harder to pay attention and control behavior.
  • Environmental factors: Various environmental factors can increase the chances of having ADHD. These factors may include childhood trauma, exposure to harmful substances during pregnancy, and birthing complications, among other contributors.
  • Developmental factors: Problems with brain growth and development can be linked to ADHD. Impaired neurological development may be genetic or, in some instances, the result of childhood trauma.

It’s important to remember that ADHD is complicated, and many factors can affect how it develops. Understanding these factors is key to finding the best ways to support you and help you manage your ADHD symptoms.

Signs and symptoms

To diagnose ADHD, doctors and mental health professionals use the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM) criteria, which help identify the symptoms and patterns associated with the condition. Here are the main points of the DSM-5 criteria for ADHD:

  • Several symptoms: To be diagnosed with ADHD, a person needs to have several symptoms that affect their daily life. These symptoms must be present before the age of 12.
  • Inattention: One of the main symptoms is difficulty paying attention or staying focused on tasks, such as schoolwork or conversations.
  • Hyperactivity: Another symptom is being overly active or restless, often seen as excessive fidgeting or difficulty staying still.
  • Impulsivity: People with ADHD may also have trouble controlling their impulses, which can lead to impulsive behaviors like interrupting others or acting without thinking.
  • Duration and impact: The symptoms should persist for at least six months and be present in multiple settings, such as home, school, or work. These symptoms must also cause significant difficulties or impairments in daily functioning.
  • Different types: The DSM-5 recognizes three main types of ADHD: predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive, and combined type, which includes both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity.

While there are unofficial self-diagnostic tools available, it’s important to remember that ADHD is a clinical diagnosis made by qualified professionals based on evaluating symptoms and their impact on an individual’s life.

Treatments

Treatments for ADHD are available to help manage its symptoms and improve daily functioning:

  • Medication: Doctors may prescribe medicines like stimulants or non-stimulants. These can help you pay attention, stay focused, and control impulsive behavior.
  • Behavioral therapy: This type of therapy teaches new skills to deal with ADHD challenges. You can learn how to stay organized, manage time better, and solve problems effectively.
  • Parent training: Parents can learn techniques to support their child at home and in school. This usually includes strategies for setting routines, handling behavior, and creating a structured environment.
  • Classroom support: Teachers can make changes in the classroom to help students with ADHD. They might give you more time for assignments, break tasks into smaller parts, or let you take short breaks to move around.
  • Supportive environment: It’s important to have a supportive environment that understands and meets the needs of people with ADHD. This means having routines, clear instructions, and positive encouragement.

Seek to get proper treatment as soon as possible, as early intervention can greatly improve the symptoms and quality of life for people with ADHD.

Mindy Hall Czech, a licensed professional counselor with Grow Therapy, said, “I find most individuals with ADHD shame themselves for being fidgety, being on their phone while watching a movie, being restless in the calm, etc.”

She adds, “Seeking treatment helps clients understand how their brain works, which leads to relief, and a shift of their internal dialogue to kindness and grace instead of shame.

“Clients learn tips and skills that they’re able to implement into their daily life that helps them achieve goals they set. They learn their options of medication, holistic approaches, and can weigh their options of which direction they would like to go in.”

Did you know?

A 2024 national survey by The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center found that 1 in 4 U.S. adults suspects they may have undiagnosed ADHD — but only 13% of those people have raised their concerns with a doctor. Experts say this gap raises real risks, since anxiety, depression, and ADHD can look similar but respond to very different treatments.

The benefits of seeing an ADHD psychiatrist

Here are some ways those with ADHD can benefit from seeing a psychiatrist:

Getting a formal diagnosis

An ADHD psychiatrist specializes in evaluating and diagnosing ADHD. They will conduct comprehensive assessments and evaluations to determine if you have ADHD or any related conditions. A proper diagnosis is crucial for understanding your challenges and accessing appropriate treatment.

Personalized treatment plans

An ADHD psychiatrist will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. This may include a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments. A customized approach increases the likelihood of symptom improvement and enhances overall well-being.

Medication management

Psychiatrists can prescribe and monitor medication if it’s considered beneficial for your ADHD symptoms. They will carefully assess your response to medication and make the necessary adjustments to find the most effective dosage and medication for you.

Therapy and counseling

ADHD psychiatrists often provide therapy or refer patients to therapists specializing in ADHD. Therapy can help develop coping strategies, improve organizational skills, address emotional challenges, and enhance self-esteem.

Education and support

Psychiatrists can offer valuable education about ADHD, helping you understand the condition better. They can provide guidance on managing symptoms, overcoming challenges, and improving overall functioning. Additionally, they can offer ongoing support and answer any questions or concerns you may have.

Czech explains, “I always recommend a client that suspects they have ADHD to get further testing by a psychologist or a psychiatrist, then look at their medication options that they would recommend.”

She adds, “I have had several clients over the years that would like to try to manage it without medication, so I utilize CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), especially for reframing thoughts. Education on our brains and ADHD helps as well. I find most clients have a very shaming inner dialogue, so we work on shifting shaming thoughts.

A big key is working on slowing down – physically, emotionally, and with thoughts, said Czech. “If you’re sitting at your desk and need to get up, pause. Leaving one room of your house to go to another? Pause. Then we add in a pause and take a deep breath. Doing this consistently will help slow down thoughts when daily life gets intense and when impulsivity tries to take over. These are also great interventions with clients taking ADHD medications as well.”

What to expect in a visit with an ADHD psychiatrist

Visiting a psychiatrist can be a helpful step in managing your ADHD symptoms, especially considering that only 10.9% of adults with ADHD receive some form of ADHD treatment. By seeking help from a qualified professional, you increase your chances of receiving appropriate support and finding effective strategies to cope with ADHD.

Here’s an example of what you can expect during your visit:

The initial assessment: The psychiatrist will ask you questions about your symptoms, medical history, and any difficulties you may be facing due to ADHD. They may use screening tools or questionnaires to gather more information and assess the severity of your symptoms.

Diagnosis: If you haven’t been diagnosed with ADHD before, the psychiatrist will discuss whether your symptoms align with the ADHD criteria outlined in the DSM-5. They will explain the diagnosis process and what it means for you.

Medication considerations: If medication is suggested, the psychiatrist will explain different options, potential benefits, and any possible side effects. They will work with you to find the right medication and dosage that suits your individual needs.

Therapy and support: The psychiatrist may recommend therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or psychoeducation, to help you develop coping strategies and improve functioning. They may also discuss support groups or resources that can provide additional assistance.

Treatment planning: Together with your psychiatrist, you will create a personalized treatment plan that considers your goals, preferences, and lifestyle. The plan will outline the steps you will take to manage your ADHD and the support you will receive along the way.

It depends on what you’re looking for. A psychiatrist can diagnose ADHD, prescribe and manage medication, and in some cases provide therapy. A therapist — such as an LPC, LCSW, or psychologist — can’t prescribe medication but can provide evidence-based approaches like CBT, which has strong research support for ADHD in adults. Many people benefit from working with both: a therapist for weekly sessions focused on coping strategies and executive function, and a psychiatrist for medication management. On Grow, you can find both therapists and prescribers who specialize in ADHD and filter by your insurance to see who has availability.

Questions to ask a psychiatrist

When consulting a psychiatrist for ADHD or any mental health concerns, it’s important to ask relevant questions to ensure you receive the best care. Here are some important questions to consider:

  • What is your experience with treating ADHD and mood disorders?
  • What treatment options are available for managing ADHD?
  • How will the treatment plan be personalized for my situation?

Also, ask about the logistics of follow-up appointments. Understanding the recommended frequency of follow-up appointments allows you to stay engaged in your treatment and monitor progress.

Remember, openly communicating with your psychiatrist and asking questions can help you make informed decisions about your mental health care. Being proactive and seeking clarification can contribute to a more effective relationship, ultimately improving your overall well-being.

How to find an ADHD psychiatrist

When seeking therapy, you can have the option of in-person or online therapy sessions. Both approaches have unique advantages, and the choice between them depends on your preferences, circumstances, and the resources available in your area.

In-person: When you visit a psychiatrist in person, you meet them face-to-face in their office. This allows for a personal connection where you can have in-depth discussions about your concerns. Being physically present in the same room may help you feel more connected and comfortable during your sessions.

Online: If you choose online sessions, also known as telehealth, you can have virtual appointments with a psychiatrist from the comfort of your own home. This option offers convenience and accessibility, especially if you have difficulty traveling or live in a remote area where it may be challenging to find a psychiatrist nearby. You can still have meaningful conversations with your psychiatrist through video calls or online platforms and receive the support you need, all from the convenience of your own space.

Discussing your options with your healthcare provider to find the most suitable approach for your preferences and needs is important. By carefully evaluating the advantages of in-person and online therapy and considering your unique requirements, you can select the type of therapy with the greatest potential to improve your symptoms.

Finding an ADHD psychiatrist near you with Grow Therapy

Living with ADHD is challenging, affecting multiple aspects of your life. However, there is hope and support available. It is crucial to find an ADHD psychiatrist near you who specializes in treating this condition to help you get your symptoms under control.

Grow Therapy’s search platform can connect you with licensed mental health professionals, including ADHD psychiatrists, in your area who accept your insurance. We provide a user-friendly platform where you can browse a curated list of qualified psychiatrists who meet your needs and schedule appointments that fit your schedule. Through Grow Therapy, you can access quality care from the comfort of your own home, removing the barriers of location and travel.

Use Grow Therapy’s search tool today to find a psychiatrist near you who can provide the guidance and assistance necessary to manage ADHD.

Final thoughts

Finding the right support for ADHD takes a little more specificity than a general therapist search — you want someone who understands how ADHD actually works, not just someone who has seen it occasionally. The good news is that effective treatment exists, and working with a specialist who gets it can make a significant difference in how you function day to day.

Whether you’re starting from a place of newly diagnosed, long undiagnosed, or just recognizing that what you’ve been managing on your own isn’t working as well as it could — finding a therapist or psychiatrist who specializes in ADHD is worth the effort. Telehealth has made this substantially easier, since you’re no longer limited to whoever is physically nearby.

ADHD is manageable and you don’t have to figure it out alone.

Browse therapists and psychiatrists on Grow who specialize in ADHD. Filter by specialty and insurance to find someone who takes your plan.

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Frequently asked questions

Yes. While medication is often recommended as a first-line treatment, particularly for moderate to severe ADHD, it isn’t the only option. CBT, behavioral strategies, coaching, mindfulness, and lifestyle changes like structured routines and regular exercise can meaningfully reduce symptoms. A therapist or psychiatrist can help you assess which combination makes sense for your specific situation.

Look for someone who lists ADHD as a specialty and has experience working with your specific challenges — whether that’s focus and productivity, relationships, emotional regulation, or co-occurring anxiety or depression. It’s worth asking in an initial consultation how they approach ADHD specifically and what their experience with the condition looks like. The relationship matters as much as the credentials — the right therapist should make you feel understood, not judged.

A formal ADHD diagnosis can be made by several types of providers — including psychiatrists, psychologists, and in some cases licensed clinical social workers — depending on your state’s licensing rules. Not all therapists are trained or authorized to diagnose. If you’re seeking a diagnosis specifically, look for a psychologist or psychiatrist with experience in ADHD evaluation. If you already have a diagnosis and are looking for support with coping strategies and daily functioning, most licensed therapists who specialize in ADHD can help.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has the strongest evidence base for ADHD in adults, particularly for improving executive function, organization, emotional regulation, and negative thought patterns. Skills coaching and psychoeducation are also commonly used alongside CBT. For children, behavioral therapy — especially when combined with parent training — is the most well-supported approach.

About Isbell Oliva-Garcia

Isbell Oliva-Garcia is a licensed mental health counselor, bilingual in English and Spanish. Isbell specializes in women's issues during difficult times of transition and also works with front-line individuals struggling with PTSD or stressors created by the job.
This article is not meant to be a replacement for medical advice. We recommend speaking with a therapist for personalized information about your mental health. If you don’t currently have a therapist, we can connect you with one who can offer support and address any questions or concerns. If you or your child is experiencing a medical emergency, is considering harming themselves or others, or is otherwise in imminent danger, you should dial 9-1-1 and/or go to the nearest emergency room.