You have a diagnosis from your GP. Now you wonder if someone else should confirm it. For most adults, the answer is no. For some, a psychiatrist is still the right next step.
Dr Jaspreet Saini, Rosedale Medical Practice, West Pennant Hills. Looking after local families since 1997.
The short answer
In NSW, an endorsed GP can assess and diagnose ADHD in adults. Their diagnosis is a real diagnosis. You do not need a second opinion for it to count.
Your GP can also start treatment and look after you over time. For many people, that is the whole journey.
But a few situations call for a psychiatrist. Knowing them helps you plan.
When a psychiatrist is still the right call
Your GP will tell you if your situation needs more than primary care. These are the common reasons.
- Several mental health conditions are tangled together.
- Treatment is complex or has not worked.
- Your GP has safety or risk concerns.
Before you book
If you are in crisis or feel unsafe, do not wait for an ADHD appointment. Call 000 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.
Other conditions that complicate the picture
ADHD often sits alongside other things, such as anxiety, low mood or sleep problems. Many people manage these well with their GP.
But when several conditions overlap and it is hard to tell what is driving what, a psychiatrist can help untangle it.
Your GP will also refer you if there are safety concerns or symptoms that need closer mental health care.
Treatment that is not straightforward
Sometimes the usual first options are not suitable for you. Or they have been tried and did not work.
If treatment becomes complex, a psychiatrist may be well placed to guide it. Your GP can stay involved and keep looking after the rest of your health.
Children and teenagers
Children and teenagers do not need to see a psychiatrist first. At Rosedale, our psychologist, Niro Wanigatunga, assesses and diagnoses ADHD for ages 6 to 17.
After the psychologist’s diagnosis, Dr Saini can start treatment where appropriate and provide ongoing care for children from age 6. You can read more in our ADHD diagnosis guide.
What it looks like when you do not need one
Most people who see an endorsed GP finish their assessment and get a clear answer. They then plan treatment together with the GP.
After that, ongoing care sits with a GP. You can read how this works in our ADHD diagnosis guide.
Choosing your starting point
Our ADHD pathways page explains which doctor does what in NSW. It also covers the cases where a psychiatrist report is helpful.
If you already hold a detailed report from a psychiatrist, bring it. It can save time at your first visit.
Related reading
- Endorsed ADHD GP vs continuation prescriber in NSW
- Do I have ADHD, or am I addicted to my phone?
- ADHD and anxiety: how to tell the difference
- Adult ADHD assessment at Rosedale
Common questions
Is a GP diagnosis of ADHD valid?
Yes. In NSW, an endorsed GP can diagnose ADHD in adults. The diagnosis is made through a full assessment, the same as any other clinician.
Will my GP refer me to a psychiatrist if needed?
Yes. If your situation is complex, your GP will explain why and arrange a referral. You will not be left to work it out alone.
Can I see a psychiatrist and a GP together?
Yes. Many people share care. The psychiatrist guides the complex part and the GP looks after day-to-day health.
Does my child need a psychiatrist?
Not usually. Our psychologist assesses and diagnoses ADHD for ages 6 to 17. Dr Saini can then start treatment where appropriate and provide ongoing care for children from age 6.
Want to know where you fit?
Take our free two-minute fit check. It shows which pathway suits you, with no obligation.
Try the fit check →Medically reviewed by Dr Jaspreet Saini, FRACGP, 8 October 2026