Who can diagnose ADHD?

ADHD can be diagnosed by a number of qualified healthcare professionals who have specialized training in mental health and developmental disorders. In Ontario, these include:

• Registered psychologists (especially clinical or school psychologists)

• Psychiatrists

• Pediatricians or family physicians

• Nurse practitioners, depending on their scope of practice

5 Reasons to Choose a Registered Psychologist for Your ADHD Assessment

1. Comprehensive understanding of the whole child

   
   

A psychologist can assess not just attention and behavior but also cognitive abilities (like memory, processing speed, and executive functioning) as well as academic skills (such as reading, writing, and math). This helps distinguish ADHD from learning disorders or other underlying challenges that may look similar.

2. Differential diagnosis and accuracy

Psychologists use standardized tests and multiple sources of information (parent/teacher reports, observations, self-ratings, etc.) to ensure that symptoms of ADHD are not misdiagnosed for other conditions such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or other developmental conditions.

3. Individualized recommendations for school and home

A psychological assessment provides detailed insights that can inform individualized education plans (IEPs), and specific strategies tailored to the child’s unique learning and behavioral profile.

4. Evidence-based mental health evaluation

ADHD often co-occurs with other emotional or behavioral challenges (e.g., anxiety, mood difficulties). Psychologists are trained to evaluate and interpret these coexisting issues, ensuring that supports address the child’s overall mental health, not just attention symptoms.

5. Objective and standardized assessment data

Psychologists use validated tools to gather objective data rather than relying solely on checklists or clinical impressions. This increases diagnostic reliability and provides a strong foundation for future planning, therapy, or medication management if needed.

Learn more about psychological assessments available at Aspire Speech for children and adults.