How to Find an ADHD Psychiatrist Near You: A Guide to Getting the Help You Deserve

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “In 2023, an estimated 15.5 million U.S. adults had an ADHD diagnosis, approximately one half of whom received their diagnosis in adulthood.”[1]

Living with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) — whether diagnosed or suspected — can feel overwhelming. You might struggle with paying attention, impulsive behavior, or managing daily tasks. But finding the right ADHD psychiatrist near you can make a big difference in your daily life, especially when you’re seeking a proper diagnosis, effective treatment, or help managing other mental health conditions like anxiety or depression.

Let’s walk through everything you need to know — from identifying symptoms to choosing the right licensed mental health professional. This guide is written for adults navigating ADHD, parents supporting their children, or anyone curious about improving mental health through professional help.

Understanding ADHD and Its Impact

What Is ADHD?

ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects both children and adults. It’s characterized by difficulty focusing, impulsive behavior, and hyperactivity. The condition can interfere with daily functioning, relationships, school, work, and self-esteem.

There are three main types:

• Inattentive (difficulty paying attention, careless mistakes, trouble with sustained mental effort)
• Hyperactive-Impulsive (fidgeting, interrupting, impulsive behavior)
• Combined Type (symptoms of both)

How Common Is ADHD?

According to the CDC, ADHD affects approximately:[1]

• 9.8% of children (ages 3-17)
• 4.4% of adults in the U.S.

However, many adults go undiagnosed, mistaking their symptoms for stress or disorganization. If you’re noticing challenges with time management, executive function, or relationship problems, an ADHD evaluation could be key.

Why You Need an ADHD Psychiatrist

A psychiatrist is a licensed mental health professional who can diagnose ADHD, prescribe medication, and develop a treatment plan. They also treat other mental health disorders, including anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and oppositional defiant disorder in children.

While psychologists and therapists can conduct psychological tests, psychiatrists have medical degrees and specialize in medication management — especially important when treating ADHD with stimulants or other medications.

A psychiatrist can:

• Evaluate symptoms using diagnostic criteria
• Conduct or refer out for psychological testing
• Rule out other medical conditions
• Create an individualized treatment plan
• Manage medications, including controlled substances
• Address coexisting conditions like depression or anxiety

ADHD Symptoms in Adults and Children

The common symptoms of ADHD vary by age. Understanding the differences between ADHD in adults and children can help you determine if it’s time to seek professional help.

The symptoms of ADHD in adults include:

• Chronic disorganization
• Difficulty sustaining attention
• Forgetfulness with daily tasks
• Poor time management
• Frequent careless mistakes
• Trouble with certain tasks requiring long focus
• Low self-esteem and relationship issues

The symptoms of ADHD in children include:

• Excessive fidgeting or talking
• Not listening or following through on instructions
• Trouble staying seated or quiet in school
• Problems with school performance
• Often losing things

Some people are misdiagnosed with ADHD as children. That said, there are risk factors that make you more likely to have ADHD, including:[2]

• Genetics: ADHD often runs in families; a specific gene may play a role
• Low birth weight
• Prenatal exposure to alcohol or tobacco
• History of learning disabilities

Just because you meet the risk factors does not mean you’ll have ADHD. However, if you notice symptoms that begin impacting your ability to function in daily life, you should seek a diagnosis from a mental health professional. Getting diagnosed is the first step towards evidence-based treatment for ADHD.

How to Start Your Search for an ADHD Psychiatrist Near You

1. Talk to Your Primary Care Provider

Start with your primary care doctor or primary care provider. They can:

• Rule out physical causes of symptoms
• Refer you to a mental health services provider
• Coordinate care if you have other mental health conditions

2. Use a Professional Directory

Search a professional directory such as:

• Psychology Today
• Zocdoc
• American Psychiatric Association
• Health insurance provider directories

Look for an ADHD specialist with experience treating deficit hyperactivity disorder ADHD in your age group.

3. Check Credentials and Experience

Make sure your psychiatrist:

• Is board-certified in psychiatry
• Has experience diagnosing and treating ADHD
• Understands coexisting conditions
• Offers medication management if needed

Some psychiatrists also collaborate with therapists or offer family therapy, which is helpful when family members are also affected by ADHD dynamics.

What to Expect at Your First Appointment

Your first appointment with a psychiatrist will be about getting to know you and your symptoms. You might tell them about yourself, explain your background, and give them information about the symptoms that affect you daily. It is also common to complete a diagnostic assessment to confirm that ADHD is the right condition.

A reputable ADHD psychiatrist will:

1. Conduct a comprehensive evaluation
2. Ask about symptoms of ADHD, family history, and daily functioning
3. Assess for other mental health disorders
4. Possibly order psychological tests
5. Discuss treatment options, which may include ADHD medications (e.g., stimulants, non-stimulants), therapy (e.g., CBT for problem-solving skills), and lifestyle changes (sleep, nutrition, exercise)

ADHD Treatment Options

Medication

Stimulants (like Adderall or Ritalin) are the most common, but your psychiatrist may also explore:

• Non-stimulant medications
• Antidepressants (if co-occurring mood disorders exist)
• Ongoing medication management for safety and effectiveness

Sometimes, stimulant medication can cause depression, which means you might need to add an antidepressant to your regimen. Thankfully, psychiatrists are trained in medication management to ensure you have the right combination of medication for your needs.

Therapy

You will engage in therapy on top of medication. Therapy is especially helpful for:

• Building executive function and time management skills
• Addressing relationship problems
• Boosting self-esteem
• Coping with anxiety disorders

The common therapeutic approaches for ADHD include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), family therapy, and other behavioral interventions.

Questions to Ask a Potential ADHD Psychiatrist

When choosing an ADHD psychiatrist, you want to make sure their approach is right for you. Before committing, ask:

• What’s your experience with treating ADHD in adults/children?
• Do you also treat other mental health disorders?
• What does your treatment plan usually involve?
• Do you offer therapy referrals or coordinate with therapists?
• How do you handle prescribing stimulants and controlled substances?

Get Connected to an ADHD Psychiatrist in New Jersey

Finding an ADHD psychiatrist near you is an investment in your daily life, health, and happiness. Whether you’re an adult struggling with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or a parent navigating the challenges of childhood ADHD, the right support can lead to transformative changes.

The journey may feel intimidating at first — but with the right licensed mental health professional, you’ll gain clarity, strategies, and a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

At New Jersey BHC, we offer evidence-based approaches to managing ADHD. In other words, we will provide you with all of the tools and services you need to recover. Contact us today for more information on how to get started.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can a therapist or psychologist prescribe ADHD medication?

No. Only a licensed medical professional, such as a psychiatrist, primary care doctor, or nurse practitioner, can prescribe medication for ADHD. Therapists and psychologists can help with diagnosis and therapy, but they are not authorized to prescribe controlled substances like stimulants.

2. Is virtual ADHD treatment as effective as in-person care?

Yes, for many people. Telepsychiatry has become a viable and effective option, especially for medication management and follow-up care. However, initial evaluations might be more thorough in person, and access to certain diagnostic tools may vary by provider.

3. How long does it take to get a formal ADHD diagnosis?

The timeline can vary. Some psychiatrists provide a diagnosis after one or two sessions based on clinical interviews and history. Others may require psychological testing or collateral input (from family, school, etc.), which can take a few weeks. The goal is a comprehensive, accurate assessment rather than a rushed label.

4. Can ADHD symptoms get worse with age?

While hyperactivity often decreases over time, other symptoms like difficulty focusing, impulsivity, and executive dysfunction can persist or even intensify as adult responsibilities grow. Untreated ADHD can also compound stress, anxiety, or burnout in adulthood.

5. Are there alternative treatments to medication for ADHD?

Yes. Some individuals benefit from behavioral therapy, coaching, mindfulness practices, nutrition adjustments, or exercise routines that target executive functioning. While these aren’t replacements for medication in moderate to severe cases, they can be valuable parts of a multimodal treatment plan.

6. Is ADHD overdiagnosed or misdiagnosed?

Both occur. ADHD can be underdiagnosed, especially in adults or women whose symptoms may not fit the stereotypical profile. On the flip side, misdiagnosis can happen when other issues (like anxiety, trauma, or sleep disorders) mimic ADHD symptoms. That’s why working with a qualified specialist is critical for a proper diagnosis.

References:

1. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Diagnosis, Treatment, and Telehealth Use in Adults — National Center for Health Statistics Rapid Surveys System, United States, October–November 2023
2. Springer Nature Link: Identifying Risk Factors for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): a Public Health Concern and Opportunity