Psychologist vs Psychiatrist for ADHD assessment

ADHD assessments can be completed with a psychologist, psychiatrist, or paediatrician (for children and teens) and now by GP’s in some states.

• If you are considering ADHD medication, your GP can refer you directly to a psychiatrist or paediatrician, as they are medical doctors who can assess and prescribe medication.

• Psychologists can assess and diagnoses ADHD but cannot prescribe medication. Some paediatricians may request a psychologist's assessment before confirming an ADHD diagnosis in children, but this is less common for adults seeing psychiatrists. 

• Psychologists aim to support you with understanding your brain better and potentially provide strategies on how to manage some of the characteristics which may challenge you.

Do Psychiatrist accept psychologists reports?​

While our reports are accepted as evidence by psychiatrists, they typically conduct their own assessment before prescribing medication. Each psychiatrist has their own assessment process, and while our reports may help streamline their evaluation, it does not guarantee a shorter or cheaper assessment.

A good first step is to speak with your GP about psychiatrists they refer to and their specific process.

Why choose an ADHD assessment with a psychologist?

Some people prefer an ADHD assessment with a psychologist, either before seeing a psychiatrist or instead of seeing one. Some reasons include - 

• No interest in medication - they want to understand themselves and their neurotype better

• Comprehensive written documentation - helpful for requesting workplace of school accommodations

• A holistic and affirming approach - our reports are neuro-affirming and provide a detailed overview which is helpful for learning strategies to manage any challenges that may arise. The evidence suggests that skill building is the best way to manage the traits of ADHD rather than medication only.

  A detailed report outlining how criteria are met, the assessments used, and in-depth insights is provided as part of this package. So, this is ideal for those applying for accommodations, funding, or seeking a deeper understanding of themselves.

  If additional time is needed due to complexity, we will provide an updated quote before proceeding​.

  We cannot guarantee that an AuDHD assessment report alone will provide enough information about the NDIS functional domains. Often a Functional Capacity Assessment is required for NDIS applications in addition to the diagnostic report. This is generally provided by an OT and it can be a good idea to place your name on a waitlist whilst the assessments are happening due to OT wait time.

  • You can pay privately for your assessment​

  • Private health fund rebates may be available depending on your provider, level of cover, and assessor.

  • You may be able to use your NDIS funding to pay for an assessment, depending on your plan goals. If you are plan-managed, please check with your Support Coordinator or Plan Manager to see if your assessment can be covered.​

  • If you are under 25, you may be eligible for a Medicare rebate for your Autism assessment with a referral from a paediatrician or psychiatrist (unfortunately GP referrals are not eligible). ​