Psychiatrist
Short answer
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (an M.D. or D.O. in the United States) who specializes in mental health. Psychiatrists evaluate mental and physical aspects of problems, make diagnoses, develop treatment plans with patients, can order medical and psychological tests, and can prescribe medication. They are one of several kinds of professionals who may evaluate adults for ADHD.
People often mix up psychiatrists, psychologists, counselors and therapists. They all work in mental health, but their training and roles differ. The main thing that sets psychiatrists apart is that they are physicians.
Training and role
Because they trained in general medicine first, psychiatrists can consider physical health questions, such as how a medical condition or another medicine might affect mood or concentration.
Psychiatrists and ADHD evaluations
For adults, who you see depends on where you live and how your health system works. In some places a primary care doctor refers you to a psychiatrist or a specialist service; in others, psychologists or other qualified clinicians do the evaluation. Many evaluations involve more than one professional.
What a visit can involve
- Questions about your current concerns and how they affect work, home and relationships.
- Questions about your childhood, school years and family history.
- A review of physical health, sleep, substance use and any medicines you take.
- Discussion of other conditions that can look similar or occur alongside.
- If a diagnosis is made, a conversation about options, which a clinician can discuss with you.
Bringing a screener result
Some people bring their ASRS v1.1 Screener result to a first appointment as a way to start the conversation. It can be a helpful note of what prompted you to come, but it is a screening outcome, not a diagnosis, and the psychiatrist will form their own view from a full assessment.
What seeing a psychiatrist does not mean
Being referred to a psychiatrist does not mean something is seriously wrong or that you will be given medication. It means a specialist will take a careful look. You can ask about their experience with adult attention concerns, what the process involves and what happens next. It is also fine to ask how long the assessment will take and whether anyone else, such as a family member, will be asked for input.
A starting point for your next step.
Start the free screenerFrequently asked questions
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can prescribe medication and order medical tests. A psychologist usually has an advanced degree in psychology and focuses on assessment and therapy.
Can a psychiatrist diagnose ADHD in adults?
Yes, psychiatrists are among the professionals who evaluate and diagnose ADHD. Who you see depends on your location and health system.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?
It depends on your country, insurance or health system. In many places, a primary care doctor or GP is the usual first step.
Sources
Source check: 2026-10-28. No medical review has occurred.
Published 2026-10-28. Factual source check: ADHDFalcon editorial team, factual source check, 2026-10-28. No medical review has occurred.