Both can diagnose ADHD. A clinical psychologist does the detailed assessment and provides therapy; a psychiatrist is the medical doctor who can prescribe medication. Most people get the best care when the two work together. Here is how to decide where to start.
The short answer: a clinical psychologist assesses ADHD and provides therapy; a psychiatrist can also diagnose ADHD and is the one who prescribes medication. Here is how their roles compare.
| Clinical psychologist | Psychiatrist | |
|---|---|---|
| Training | Postgraduate clinical psychology training, licensed by the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) | Medical degree (MBBS) plus MD or DNB in psychiatry, registered with a medical council |
| Diagnose ADHD | Yes, through a formal assessment | Yes, through a clinical evaluation |
| Detailed psychological testing | Yes: standardised scales, interviews, attention and cognitive tests | Sometimes, often by referring to a psychologist |
| Prescribe medication | No | Yes |
| Therapy (CBT, parent training, skills) | Yes, a core part of the role | Some do; many focus on medication |
| Typical visits | Longer sessions, usually weekly during therapy | Shorter consultations, with follow-ups to adjust medication |
For many adults, the best answer is both: a psychologist for assessment and therapy, and a psychiatrist for medication, working from the same plan. See ADHD treatment options in India.
Often the first stop for parents. They can screen for ADHD, rule out medical causes and, in many cases, prescribe medication for children. A psychologist usually does the detailed assessment and behaviour therapy. See ADHD therapy for children.
ADHD is not usually treated by neurologists. A neurologist may be involved if there are seizures, a head injury or another neurological condition alongside attention problems.
Counselling psychologists with ADHD experience provide therapy, skills work and support. The formal diagnostic assessment is usually done by a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist.
You do not have to choose and hope. At Coach For Mind, RCI-registered clinical psychologists lead ADHD assessment and therapy, and our consultant psychiatrist, Dr. Anubhav Katyal, sees clients when medication is worth considering. Both work from the same plan, online across India or at our clinic in Sector 70, Gurugram (see ADHD treatment in Gurgaon).
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