Do i need to get a psychologist to get tested for add or can i just talk to my doctor?

ADD: Either one. If psychological testing is also needed, in addition to diagnostic interview, then a psychologist is needed. If medication is warranted, then psychiatrist would be best bet.

Diagnostic certainty: Folks receive all sorts of levels of service for assessment of adhd. From very thorough testing (see www.Adhdassessment.Com) to a few questions an less than a few minutes with your doctor. Each has costs, risks and benefits. Adhd is presumed to be a developmental lifelong disorder, and has lots of coexisting conditions and no unique symptom - my bias is best treatment comes from best assessment.

If you need the: diagnosis to get special accommodations for work or Schiller, you need psychological testing results. If you wish to start a trial on medication, many physicians will consider it without psychosocial testing. They may do a simpler pencil and paper test (Connors) or ask to speak with your psychologist before prescribing medication.

Neuropsychologist: Neuropsychologists, in my opinion are best equipped to make an ADD diagnosis because of all the testing that takes place. However, they cannot provide meds or therapy. Psychiatrists can provide meds, but do not usually provide therapy and do not do comprehensive testing as do neuropsychologists. Psychologists can provide good therapy, but cannot usually do in-depth testing or provide meds.