You're 34. Or 45. Or 28. You've always had trouble finishing what you start, managing your time, maintaining your concentration on tasks that don't stimulate you. For years, you've compensated - sometimes brilliantly. Then, at some point, the compensations are no longer enough. A doctor, a shrink, someone close to you or yourself have put a word to what you're experiencing: ADHD.
But there's a gulf between putting a word to something and getting an official diagnosis in Quebec. A gulf measured in months, sometimes years, and often accompanied by real confusion about what to do, who to ask, and what it will cost.
This article presents the reality of the adult ADHD assessment process in Quebec in 2026 - straightforwardly and with actual figures.
Adult ADHD in Quebec - an under-diagnosed reality
Attention deficit disorder with or without hyperactivity (ADHD) affects approximately 5 % adults worldwide, according to data from the World Health Organization. In Canada, estimates put the figure at between 4 and 6 % of the adult population - representing several hundred thousand Quebecers.
Yet adult ADHD remains massively under-diagnosed in Quebec. There are several reasons for this. Historically, ADHD has been considered a childhood disorder - many adults who suffer from it today were never assessed in their youth, either because the disorder was not recognized at the time, or because their atypical profile (predominantly inattentive without hyperactivity, female profile, compensatory high intellectual potential) did not correspond to conventional representations of the disorder.
The consequences of undiagnosed ADHD in adulthood are documented and significant: chronic work difficulties, relational instability, pathological procrastination, secondary anxiety, reactive depression, weakened self-esteem, and in some cases, the use of substances as a self-regulatory mechanism.
A proper diagnosis, followed by appropriate treatment - both medicinal and non-medicinal - will change the life trajectory of the vast majority of adults concerned. That's why access to assessment is a public health issue, not a luxury.
The adult ADHD assessment process - what it really involves
Before talking about deadlines and costs, it's essential to understand what a rigorous adult ADHD assessment entails - because the content of the assessment varies considerably depending on the context and the professional consulted.
A complete adult ADHD evaluation generally includes:
A detailed history covering developmental, school, work and family history. ADHD symptoms must have been present since childhood - even if not recognized until adulthood. Standardized clinical questionnaires - validated self-report scales such as the Conners Adult ADHD Rating Scales (CAARS), the Brown ADD Rating Scales, or the WHO Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS). An assessment of frequent comorbidities - anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, mood disorders, learning disabilities - which may mimic or accompany ADHD and need to be distinguished or taken into account in management. A structured clinical interview enables the professional to assess the overall symptomatic picture, the functional impact in several areas of life, and to eliminate differential diagnoses.
Depending on the context and complexity of the clinical picture, formal neuropsychological tests may be added - assessment of sustained attention, working memory and executive functions. These tests are not always necessary to make a diagnosis of ADHD, but they can be useful in complex cases or to objectify the cognitive profile.
Who can make the diagnosis :
In Quebec, the diagnosis of adult ADHD may be made by a medical specialist. doctor - general practitioner or psychiatrist - and by a neuropsychologist (for formal neuropsychological assessment, but a doctor is then required to prescribe medication). The psychologist can contribute to the assessment, but cannot make a medical diagnosis or prescribe medication.
Delays in the public network - the reality in 2026
This is where the problem lies for the vast majority of Quebec adults who suspect ADHD.
Via a family doctor : For patients who have a family doctor, the process often begins with a discussion with that physician. Some GPs feel comfortable assessing and diagnosing adult ADHD themselves - others prefer to refer to a psychiatrist. In either case, if a referral is necessary, the time it takes to see a psychiatrist in public psychiatry in Quebec can be counted in years. months to years depending on the region and perceived clinical urgency. For a functional adult whose ADHD is not considered a psychiatric emergency, the wait can exceed 18 to 24 months in several regions.
Via a neuropsychologist in the public network: Neuropsychological assessments in the public network - CLSCs, hospitals - are reserved primarily for children and for cases of clinical urgency for adults. Access for adults with suspected non-urgent ADHD is extremely limited, and delays are similar to or longer than those in psychiatry.
Without a family doctor : For the 1.5 million Quebecers without a family doctor, starting the process in the public network is even more complex. Without a dedicated physician to carry out an initial assessment or generate a referral, access to the specialized public network is virtually inaccessible within a reasonable timeframe.
The concrete result: the vast majority of adults diagnosed with ADHD in Quebec within a reasonable timeframe do so via the private sector.
Private options - what they offer and what they cost
The private sector offers several routes to adult ADHD assessment, with significant differences in terms of content, timing and cost.
Medical evaluation by a private general practitioner :
A general practitioner experienced in adult ADHD can carry out a complete clinical assessment - history-taking, standardized questionnaires, structured interview - and make a diagnosis of ADHD when the clinical picture warrants it. This assessment does not include formal neuropsychological tests, but these are not systematically necessary for all profiles.
At Clinique Omicron, we offer adult ADHD assessments performed by doctors with expertise in this field. Depending on the patient's profile, the assessment can be carried out face-to-face, or in part by teleconsultation. Turnaround times are significantly shorter than those of the public network - book an appointment on cliniqueomicron.ca for current availability.
The cost of an adult ADHD medical evaluation at Clinique Omicron - which includes the evaluation consultation and clinical questionnaires - is transparently displayed on our website. The prescription of medication, if indicated following diagnosis, is a medical procedure covered by the RAMQ. The medication itself is then covered by your drug insurance plan.
Private neuropsychological assessment :
For complex cases - multiple comorbidities, atypical clinical picture, need to objectify the cognitive profile for school or professional reasons, or when the patient wishes a formal neuropsychological evaluation - an evaluation by a private neuropsychologist may be considered.
A complete neuropsychological evaluation for adult ADHD in the private sector in Quebec generally costs between 1,500 $ and 3,500 $ depending on the professional, assessment content and region. The time it takes to obtain an appointment in private neuropsychology is generally a few weeks to a few months - longer than for a medical evaluation, but significantly shorter than the public network.
This assessment is not covered by RAMQ. Some private insurances may cover a portion - check your coverage before committing yourself. The neuropsychological evaluation produces a detailed report that can be useful for requests for educational or professional accommodations, as well as confirming or qualifying the diagnosis.
Evaluation by a private psychiatrist :
Psychiatrists practice in the private sector in Quebec, with much shorter waiting times than in public psychiatry. The cost of a private psychiatric consultation generally varies between 250 $ and 450 $ per hour consultation. A complete ADHD evaluation may require one to three hours of consultation, depending on the complexity. These consultations are generally not covered by RAMQ when the psychiatrist does not practice in the public network.
After diagnosis - drug management
A diagnosis of adult ADHD paves the way for treatment that can transform daily life. Treatment is generally multimodal - combining medication and non-medication approaches.
Medications for adult ADHD in Quebec :
Two main classes of medication are used for ADHD: stimulants and non-stimulants.
Visit stimulants - methylphenidate (Ritalin, Biphentin, Concerta) and amphetamines (Adderall, Vyvanse, Dexedrine) - are first-line treatments, with proven efficacy in the vast majority of adult patients. These are controlled substances in Quebec, which implies specific prescribing rules: manual prescription required, non-renewable by telephone, limited duration per prescription.
Visit non-stimulants - atomoxetine (Strattera), guanfacine (Intuniv), bupropion (Wellbutrin, used off-label) - are alternatives for patients who cannot tolerate stimulants or for whom they are contraindicated.
These drugs are covered by the RAMQ's general drug insurance plan, subject to the eligibility criteria for each individual drug. The prescription itself - the medical act - is covered by the RAMQ, whether during a follow-up consultation at Clinique Omicron or elsewhere.
Follow-up after diagnosis :
Diagnosis is not an end in itself - it's the beginning of a management process. Medical follow-up after a diagnosis of ADHD generally involves adjusting medication (the dose and type of medication may need to be adjusted in the first few weeks or months), monitoring side effects, and regularly evaluating the effectiveness of treatment.
At Clinique Omicron, post-diagnosis follow-up can be done via teleconsultation for patients throughout the province - prescription renewals, treatment adjustments, regular check-ups. Prescriptions for controlled substances require special rules - your doctor will explain how this works during the consultation.
Non-medication approaches - ADHD-specific cognitive-behavioural therapy, ADHD coaching, time and environmental management strategies - are complementary to medical treatment and recommended in clinical guidelines. These resources exist in Quebec, although access to them also varies from region to region.
What Clinique Omicron concretely offers for adult ADHD
Clinique Omicron offers a structured pathway for adults who suspect ADHD or are seeking a diagnostic evaluation:
A initial assessment consultation with a doctor with expertise in adult ADHD - developmental and clinical history, validated standardized questionnaires, assessment of comorbidities, and discussion of the overall clinical picture. In the vast majority of cases, this assessment enables us to make or rule out a diagnosis of ADHD, or to identify the need for further investigations.
If a diagnosis of ADHD is made, an follow-up consultation to initiate drug treatment if indicated - choice of medication according to patient profile, explanation of prescribing rules for controlled substances, and follow-up planning.
From regular follow-up consultations - by teleconsultation from anywhere in Quebec - to adjust treatment, renew prescriptions according to the rules applicable to controlled substances, and ensure continuity of care without the patient having to repeat the process each time.
For cases requiring a formal neuropsychological assessment, we can refer you to the appropriate resources and collaborate with the neuropsychologist in overall management.
Make an appointment on cliniqueomicron.ca - When making your appointment, please specify that you would like an adult ADHD assessment, so that we can refer you to the appropriate doctor and plan the necessary consultation time.
Frequently asked questions
Can a general practitioner diagnose adult ADHD, or is a psychiatrist or neuropsychologist absolutely necessary?
A general practitioner with expertise in adult ADHD can diagnose ADHD and prescribe the appropriate treatment - this is a recognized and widespread practice in Quebec. Referral to a psychiatrist or neuropsychologist is indicated in complex cases - atypical clinical picture, significant multiple comorbidities, or when the patient requires a neuropsychological report for specific academic or professional purposes. For the majority of adults with a clear clinical picture, a medical assessment by a competent general practitioner is appropriate, more accessible and considerably less costly.
Are adult ADHD assessments covered by the RAMQ at Clinique Omicron?
The medical consultation - the physician's act during the assessment - is covered by RAMQ. Clinical questionnaires and assessment time that goes beyond the standard RAMQ consultation may entail additional charges, depending on the structure of the assessment. Consult our fee schedule on cliniqueomicron.ca or contact the clinic before your appointment for complete and transparent cost information.
How long does an adult ADHD evaluation at Clinique Omicron last?
A full initial assessment generally requires more time than a standard general medical consultation - typically between 60 and 90 minutes for a thorough initial assessment, depending on the complexity of the clinical picture. Please specify when booking your appointment that you would like an adult ADHD assessment, so that the appropriate consultation time can be reserved.
Can I get a diagnosis of ADHD and a prescription at the same consultation?
This depends on the complexity of your clinical picture. In some cases, when the picture is clear and the doctor has enough information at the first consultation, diagnosis and initiation of treatment can be made in a single encounter. In other cases, a second follow-up consultation is preferable - particularly to discuss the results of questionnaires and treatment options in depth. Your doctor will advise you on the best course of action for your particular situation.
I've already been diagnosed with adult ADHD by another doctor - can Clinique Omicron follow up and renew my prescriptions?
Yes, if you already have a diagnosis of adult ADHD from a physician or other qualified professional, Clinique Omicron can provide you with follow-up and prescription refills - including for stimulant medications, in accordance with Quebec's controlled substance regulations. Bring your existing diagnostic documentation and list of current medications to your first consultation at the clinic.
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