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What are signs a doctor is not familiar with adult ADHD? 

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

Recognising when a healthcare professional lacks ADHD doctor knowledge can be key to getting the right support. While many GPs are well-intentioned, not all have in-depth experience with diagnosing ADHD in adults. 

Get a personalised assessment for ADHD

How It Helps to Know What to Look For 

Awareness of certain red flags can help you decide whether to seek a second opinion. 

Dismissive Attitudes 

If a doctor says, “Everyone has trouble focusing,” or minimises your concerns, it may reflect a lack of expertise ADHD. ADHD doctor knowledge includes understanding that ADHD impacts more than attention,  it affects executive function and emotional regulation too. 

Outdated Information 

Some professionals may rely on childhood-only stereotypes or assume ADHD is overdiagnosed. In reality, adult symptoms may present differently, and a modern, evidence-based understanding is essential for proper assessment. 

Skipping Comprehensive Evaluation 

A doctor who does not explore symptoms in multiple areas of your life, or fails to ask about your personal history, may not follow proper diagnostic procedures. This is a sign of recognising poor assessment. 

Trust your instincts. If you feel misunderstood or rushed, it may be worth seeking someone with strong ADHD doctor knowledge. A good evaluator listens, asks detailed questions and respects your lived experience. 

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.