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Can I Ask My GP About ADHD or Do I Need a Specialist? 

PostedOctober 15, 2025
UpdatedOctober 16, 2025
ByMy Patient Advice
Author: Harriet Winslow, BSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

If you’re considering whether to ask your GP about ADHD, it’s important to know that your GP is often the first point of contact. They can help assess your symptoms and, if needed, provide an ADHD GP referral to a specialist. While you may not need to see a specialist right away, your GP can guide you through the next steps based on your symptoms. 

In the UK, the NHS ADHD pathway typically starts with a visit to your GP, who can evaluate whether your symptoms warrant further investigation. They can provide advice on managing your symptoms, recommend lifestyle changes, or refer you to a specialist for a more detailed assessment if necessary. 

Get a personalised assessment for ADHD

GP vs Specialist ADHD 

GP Role 

Your GP can help assess your general health, discuss your ADHD symptoms, and refer you to a specialist if appropriate. They can also prescribe medication or recommend therapies once a diagnosis is made. 

Specialist Role 

A specialist, such as a psychiatrist or clinical psychologist, has more expertise in diagnosing ADHD and may be required for a full evaluation and treatment plan, especially if your symptoms are complex or have been present since childhood. 

While you can ask your GP about ADHD, if further investigation is needed, they will guide you through the ADHD GP referral process to ensure you get the right care. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert advice tailored to your needs.    

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to How to talk to doctors or get assessed. 

Get a personalised assessment for ADHD
Harriet Winslow, BSc - My patient advice author - mypatientadvice.co.uk
Harriet Winslow, BSc
Author

Harriet Winslow is a clinical psychologist with a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience in behaviour therapy and developmental disorders. She has worked with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, and behavioural challenges, providing individual and group therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT. Dr. Winslow has developed and implemented personalised treatment plans, conducted formal and informal assessments, and delivered crisis intervention for clients in need of urgent mental health care. Her expertise spans assessment, treatment planning, and behavioural intervention for both neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk
Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS
Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.