Who is qualified to diagnose ADHD in Australia?

Understanding ADHD Assessment in Australia

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that starts in childhood and can continue into adulthood. Getting an accurate diagnosis is crucial for accessing the right treatment, strategies, and support.

Psychologists and Clinical Psychologists – Expertise in ADHD Assessment

Psychologists, including clinical psychologists, play a central role in diagnosing ADHD—especially through in-depth behavioural and cognitive assessment. To ensure accuracy, the assessment should be completed by a psychologist or clinical psychologist with specific interest and expertise in ADHD.

The process includes:

• Structured clinical interviews
• Standardised ADHD questionnaires and observer reports
• Cognitive testing (when indicated)
• Review of developmental, medical, and educational history to rule out other causes such as learning disorders, anxiety, or trauma

While psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are experts in therapy, skills training, and behavioural interventions—helping both children and adults develop practical strategies for focus, organisation, and emotional regulation. If medication is needed, they will refer you to a psychiatrist or paediatrician.

Learn more about their ADHD assessment process here.

Psychiatrists – Medical Expertise and Medication Management

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialise in mental health. They can diagnose ADHD, prescribe stimulant and non-stimulant medications, and treat co-existing mental health conditions—such as anxiety, depression, or mood disorders—that may require medication.

If ADHD symptoms are accompanied by complex mental health issues, a psychiatrist may be the most appropriate starting point.

Paediatricians – ADHD Diagnosis for Children and Adolescents

Paediatricians can diagnose ADHD in children and adolescents, prescribe medication, and monitor progress. They are often the first specialist referral for children, especially when ADHD overlaps with developmental or medical conditions.

GPs in NSW – New Changes Coming

Traditionally, GPs in Australia have not been able to formally diagnose ADHD for medication purposes. While they could identify likely ADHD and refer on, they could not prescribe most stimulant medications without specialist involvement.

This is about to change in NSW:

• From September 2025 – GPs who complete new Tier 1 training will be able to resupply ADHD medication for patients already diagnosed and stable.
• From early to mid-2026 – Around 100 specially trained Tier 2 GPs will be able to diagnose ADHD and initiate medication treatment. This is expected to reduce wait times significantly, especially in regional and rural areas.

These reforms are backed by NSW Health and the RACGP, with training costs covered for participating GPs. Read these reforms here. 

Who Is Better for an ADHD Diagnosis – Psychologist or Psychiatrist?

The right choice depends on your needs:

• For detailed behavioural and cognitive assessment – start with a psychologist or clinical psychologist
• If medication is required, or there are other mental health conditions – a psychiatrist may be the better first step
• Best option for many people – combined care: psychologist for assessment and therapy, psychiatrist for medication management

ADHD Screening Tools – Available Online

You can access free adult ADHD screeners and child/adolescent ADHD screeners on Insightful Minds’ ADHD resources page. While not diagnostic, they can help you decide whether to book a full assessment.

FAQ – ADHD Diagnosis in Australia

Can any clinical psychologist diagnose ADHD?
Yes—clinical psychologists can diagnose ADHD in both children and adults. For medication purposes, you’ll still need a psychiatrist or paediatrician.

Who is qualified to diagnose ADHD?
In Australia, ADHD can be diagnosed by psychologists, clinical psychologists, psychiatrists, and paediatricians. From 2026, specially trained GPs in NSW will also be able to diagnose and prescribe.

Who can diagnose ADHD in my child in Australia?
Psychologists, paediatricians, and psychiatrists can all assess and diagnose ADHD in children.

Who is better to get an ADHD diagnosis from—a psychologist or a psychiatrist?
Psychologists are best for detailed behavioural and cognitive assessment; psychiatrists are best if you require medication or have complex co-existing mental health issues.

Can a clinical psychologist assess for ADHD?
Yes—clinical psychologists are highly trained in ADHD assessment, using structured interviews, rating scales, and cognitive testing when needed.

Written by Lorren Wright from Insightful Minds

Lorren is a Clinical Psychologist who creates a safe, genuine and compassionate therapy space. With extensive mental health experience, she takes a practical, collaborative approach, helping clients feel supported, understood and involved in their therapy.

About HealthShare

HealthShare is a leading digital health company. We are dedicated to improving health outcomes for patients through our innovative products for GPs, Specialists, Health organisations and more. To see how we can help you, visit HealthShare.