Diagnosis & Treatment
How ADHD is diagnosed, who can diagnose it, and what treatment options are available in the United States.
How ADHD is diagnosed
There is no single test for ADHD.
Clinical interview
A clinician gathers a detailed history of symptoms, onset, and impact across settings.
Rating scales
Standardized questionnaires completed by the patient, parents, or teachers.
Rule out other causes
The clinician considers other conditions that can mimic ADHD symptoms.
Conditions that can look like ADHD
Anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, trauma, thyroid conditions, and learning disabilities can all produce symptoms that overlap with ADHD. A thorough evaluation considers and rules out these possibilities.
Who can diagnose ADHD?
In the United States, several types of licensed professionals can diagnose ADHD.
Psychiatrist
A medical doctor specializing in mental health. Can diagnose and prescribe medication.
Psychologist
Can diagnose ADHD and administer comprehensive neuropsychological testing.
Primary care physician
Many PCPs diagnose and manage ADHD, particularly in children.
Neurologist
May be involved when neurological conditions are also present.
Medication can be a powerful tool — but it works best as part of a broader treatment plan.
Treatment options
Effective treatment for ADHD typically combines medication, behavioral strategies, and support.
Stimulant medication
Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed and well-studied medications for ADHD.
- Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta)
- Amphetamine-based (Adderall, Vyvanse)
- Generally effective for 70–80% of people
Non-stimulant medication
Non-stimulants are an option when stimulants are not effective or not tolerated.
- Atomoxetine (Strattera)
- Viloxazine (Qelbree)
- Guanfacine (Intuniv) and clonidine (Kapvay)
Other medications
Some medications are used off-label for ADHD when first-line options are insufficient.
- Bupropion (Wellbutrin)
- Tricyclic antidepressants
- Always discuss risks and benefits with your prescriber
Behavioral therapy
Behavioral interventions are a core part of ADHD treatment, especially for children.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Parent training in behavior management
- Organizational skills coaching
A note on age and evaluation
Evaluation and treatment recommendations can vary based on age, symptoms, setting, medical history, and co-occurring conditions. The sections below highlight some of the key differences between childhood and adult evaluation and treatment.
ADHD in children: evaluation and treatment
Evaluation
For children, a comprehensive ADHD evaluation typically involves the child's pediatrician or a specialist. Clinicians gather information from multiple sources — parents, teachers, and the child — using standardized rating scales and clinical interviews. Symptoms must be present in more than one setting and must have begun before age 12.
Treatment
For school-age children, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends FDA-approved medication combined with behavioral therapy. For children under 6, behavioral therapy is recommended as the first-line treatment before considering medication.
Getting diagnosed as an adult
Many adults with ADHD went undiagnosed as children — especially women, who often present with inattentive symptoms that are easier to miss.
Adult diagnosis follows the same process as childhood diagnosis, but with more focus on how symptoms have affected your work, relationships, and daily functioning over time.
Education & workplace accommodations
In the United States, people with ADHD may be eligible for accommodations in school and at work. Children may qualify for a Section 504 Plan or an IEP under IDEA. Adults in higher education and the workplace may be eligible for accommodations under the ADA.
Eligibility and available accommodations depend on individual circumstances. Visitors may wish to consult the appropriate school, employer, government agency, healthcare professional, or qualified legal professional for guidance specific to their situation. The information on this page is educational and does not constitute legal advice.
Prepared by the ADHD 101 editorial team.
Educational content compiled from established public-health and clinical sources.
This page has not yet undergone independent medical review. Learn about our editorial standards.
Last updated: July 2026.