How to Get an Adult ADHD Diagnosis in Canada: Step-by-Step Guide
- Kaitlyn Boudreault
- May 10, 2024
- 6 min read
Updated: Oct 18
ADHD is a widely recognized neurodevelopmental difference affecting millions of adults worldwide. Current statistics suggest that approximately 336 million adults globally live with ADHD. Despite its prevalence, many individuals don’t receive a diagnosis until adulthood.
Many childhood diagnoses are missed because children may not display stereotypical signs of ADHD, such as classroom disruptions or academic struggles. This is particularly common among young boys, who tend to display more hyperactive traits.
In contrast, girls, AFAB individuals, BIPOC, and LGBTQ+ populations are frequently diagnosed later in life due to misdiagnosis or underdiagnosis in childhood. Factors such as limited access to care or masking ADHD traits can further contribute to this issue.
As an adult, you may begin exploring an ADHD diagnosis as you reflect on lifelong challenges and whether ADHD may be a contributing factor.
Seeking a diagnosis can help you access necessary accommodations, improve daily functioning, and enhance quality of life. The decision is entirely personal, based on what fits your needs.
Let’s dive into what ADHD is, the traits associated with it, its types, who can diagnose it, and how to navigate the diagnostic process as an adult.
ADHD is a neurological difference and form of neurodivergence, akin to autism and dyslexia. It is characterized by impulsivity, difficulty focusing, hyperactivity, and challenges with emotional regulation.
ADHD is chronic and may impact school, interpersonal relationships, and home life. Adults may also experience difficulties in the workplace, often due to sensitivity to criticism. The brains of individuals with ADHD process information and interact with the world differently, presenting unique strengths alongside challenges.
Signs You May Benefit from an ADHD Diagnosis
ADHD manifests through a range of traits that vary from person to person and may often benefit from ADHD coaching. Even if you weren’t diagnosed as a child, you might consider exploring an ADHD assessment if you notice persistent challenges in your daily life. Common signs include:
Trait | How It Shows Up | Potential Supports |
Time Management Challenges | Missing deadlines, lateness | Visual planners, automatic reminders |
Overworking or avoiding tasks | Coaching strategies, task chunking | |
Restlessness | Need to move frequently. | Fidget tools, walking breaks |
Hiding traits to conform | Safe neurodivergent-affirming spaces | |
Impulsiveness / Forgetfulness | Impulse purchases, missed cancellations | Financial coaching, reminders |
Difficulty starting tasks | ADHD-specific coaching strategies | |
Emotional overreactions | Emotion regulation strategies | |
Hyperfixation | Intense focus on one task | Scheduling breaks, task prioritization |
Easily overwhelmed | Quiet spaces, headphones | |
Difficulty initiating or completing tasks | Decision-making frameworks | |
Challenges with organization | Task management tools | |
Forgetting routines | Routine checklists | |
Anxious when waiting for tasks or situations | Setting appointments earlier in the day |
💡 Tip: If several of these signs resonate with you across multiple areas of life, it may be worth speaking with a qualified healthcare professional for an ADHD assessment.
Inattentive ADHD: Characterized by inattentive traits, without hyperactive-impulsive traits, including difficulty focusing, disorganization, forgetfulness, and challenges with sustained mental effort.
Hyperactive-Impulsive ADHD: Primarily present with hyperactive and impulsive traits, without inattentive traits. Hyperactive-impulsive ADHDers present with excessive fidgeting, constant movement, difficulties in remaining quiet, and interrupting others.
Combined type ADHD: Individuals present with a mix of hyperactive-impulsive traits and inattentive traits.
Note: For the format ADHD diagnosis, symptoms must have been present before age 12, even if undiagnosed.
How to Get Diagnosed with ADHD as an Adult
If you suspect ADHD, you'll want to begin by knowing who can diagnose it in Canada. Only qualified healthcare providers, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, and physicians, can provide an official ADHD diagnosis.
Registered psychotherapists and social workers cannot diagnose ADHD, but they can facilitate your path to seeking one by providing neurodiversity-affirming therapy.
step-by-step guide to pursuing an ADHD diagnosis as an adult
Step 1: Identify a Qualified Professional
Your family doctor, nurse practitioner, or general practitioner should be your first point of contact to begin the assessment process. If they have experience with ADHD, they may be able to diagnose, and this would be covered by your provincial health insurance in Canada.
If they do not feel competent enough in ADHD, they may refer you to a specialist, like a psychiatrist or psychologist, depending on your specific needs and financial circumstances.
Feature | Psychiatrist Assessment | Psychological Assessment |
Insurance Coverage | Covered by provincial health insurance plans | Usually not covered by provincial health insurance plans |
Services Provided | Can diagnose ADHD, prescribe medications, and provide counselling | Can diagnose ADHD, provide detailed cognitive and behavioral testing |
Cost | Covered (out-of-pocket, minimal if any) | Private, $300–$3,500 CAD depending on provider and assessment type |
Waitlist | Often long (months) | Usually shorter than psychiatric assessments |
Accessibility Tips | Start with a family doctor referral if unsure. | If you have a disability, consider disability grants, such as the Bursary for Students with Disabilities and the Canada Student Grant for Students with Disabilities, to help with funding the assessment. |
Once you have an idea of what healthcare professional you want to see, you can then take further steps to get an ADHD diagnosis.
Step 2: Cost of Adult ADHD Assessments in Canada:
If you are seeking a diagnosis from a psychiatrist or your general practitioner, it may be covered by your provincial health insurance plan; verify this with your healthcare provider.
If you can afford a private ADHD assessment, costs can range from $300 to $3,500. Factors such as location and the extent of the assessment will influence pricing. We recommend scheduling free consultations with several providers to find the best fit.
Step 3: Book an Appointment:
Once you have determined the cost and have chosen a practitioner, schedule your appointment via phone, email, or an online booking system, depending on the provider's preferences.
Step 4: Gather All Relevant Information:
Prepare for the appointment by collecting pertinent information and completing these forms, such as:
Current concerns and their impact on your functioning
Medical history
Report cards and any previous assessments
Family history regarding ADHD or related conditions
Lifestyle history and any previous mental health diagnoses
Any past cognitive tests and pharmacy records
Bringing comprehensive documentation can greatly assist the provider in making an informed diagnosis.
Blue Sky Learning’s Partners
Blue Sky Learning collaborates with three neuro-affirming clinics that can provide ADHD assessments. Here’s a brief overview of these clinics:
Finding Focus
Cost: $399 CAD for a diagnosis and treatment plan (payment plans available)
At Finding Focus, there are no labels or stigmas. Their team of licensed, expert clinicians will take your diagnostic appointment on the same or the next day and follow best practices of care so you can move forward with clarity.
Free consultation with ADHD Coach Maddy for a $25 rebate on your assessment.
Adult ADHD Centre
Cost: provides an adult ADHD assessment for $300 CAD
The Adult ADHD Centre is a neuro-affirming clinic led by Dr. Parhar, who actively treats individuals with ADHD.
Potential refund through private health insurance. Blue Sky Learning can assist you in seeing if coaching fits your needs.
Psychotherapy Matters
Psychotherapy Matters connects clients and therapist health providers with psychiatrists who can diagnose ADHD, covered by provincial insurance.
With consent, therapists can request referrals and attend consultations to stay updated on your care.
Blue Sky Learning offers a chance to book a free consultation to learn more about this exciting and affordable opportunity.
FAQs About Adult ADHD in Canada
How long does it take to get diagnosed with adult ADHD in Canada?
The time it takes to get an adult ADHD diagnosis in Canada varies depending on the type of healthcare professional you see and your location. Psychiatrist assessments may have long waitlists, sometimes several months, while psychological assessments can be quicker but costly. Some private clinics offer faster appointments, often within days or weeks. Starting with your family doctor or nurse practitioner can also influence the timeline.
Is an ADHD diagnosis covered by Canadian health insurance?
In Canada, ADHD assessments conducted by psychiatrists are generally covered by provincial health insurance plans. However, psychological assessments typically are not covered and may require private payment. Coverage varies by province, so it’s important to check with your healthcare provider or local health authority for details.
Can adults get diagnosed if they were missed as children?
Yes, adults can receive an ADHD diagnosis even if they were not diagnosed as children. ADHD symptoms often persist into adulthood, and many people discover their neurodivergence later in life. A formal diagnosis requires that symptoms were present before age 12, but the diagnosis itself can be made at any age once the history and current challenges are thoroughly evaluated.
Practical Tips to Reduce Frustration Before & After Diagnosis
Keep digital records of symptoms and challenges
Start neurodiversity-affirming coaching to learn coping strategies
Use visual aids, reminders, and structured routines
Join support groups for adults with ADHD
Book a Free Consultation With Blue Sky Learning
At Blue Sky Learning, the team embodies compassion, empathy, and a person-centered approach, providing various opportunities for students, professionals, parents, and educators to address individual concerns and growth areas. The mission is to create a safe, supportive space where clients feel understood.
If you’re a neurodivergent individual considering an ADHD assessment or seeking support from an ADHD coach or therapist, Blue Sky Learning is here to help. Book a free 20-minute consultation with one of the team members by emailing hello@blueskylearning.ca or visiting the website.
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