Doctors That Treat ADHD in Adults
If you have adult ADHD, your doctor will likely refer you to a mental health specialist. The two primary types of specialists that treat ADHD are psychiatrists and psychologists. Psychiatrists are able to prescribe medication.
Your specialist may interview co-workers, supervisors and teachers to find out about your school or work issues. They might also inquire about your family background and conduct psychological tests.
Psychiatrists
Certain psychiatrists are skilled in treating adults suffering from ADHD However, it is recommended to seek out an expert. If your local mental health clinics or community centers offer referral services, they might have experts in your local area. You can also search online or ask friends for suggestions. If you have insurance look up which insurance companies accept your plan.
A Psychiatrist, or psychiatrist is a licensed physician who prescribes medication to treat a variety of psychiatric disorders including ADHD. They typically have specialized training in differential diagnosis and can identify the root cause of your symptoms and suggest the best treatment. They can also treat co-occurring conditions, such as anxiety or depression bipolar disorders, as well as aggressive disorders that co-occur along with ADHD.
Adult ADHD is treated by psychologists who focus on the psychological aspect of the disorder. They help patients cope with symptoms through talk therapy. This can include cognitive behavioral therapy or a psychodynamic therapy. They may not be able to prescribe medication, but they can coordinate with an ADHD physician or psychiatrist to oversee a patient's complete treatment plan. They can guide patients on how to improve their daily functioning. This includes organizing techniques such as healthy habits, diet, exercise and schedules for sleep/wake, or organizational techniques.
Licensed Mental health counselors or Professional Counselors are mental health professionals who have a master's degree who provide different kinds of therapy. LMHCs and LPCs are qualified to conduct initial assessments, and they can refer their clients for a more in-depth assessment with a psychologist, or psychiatrist. Therapists are also able to offer support sessions or individual therapy to meet particular needs.
A psychiatrist can assist people with ADHD who have difficulties in their relationships. They can learn to improve communication skills and resolve conflicts. Some psychiatrists will offer family or marriage therapy. Others will collaborate with a coach, or therapist who is specifically trained in working with ADHD patients to ensure their patients receive comprehensive behavioral support along with their medication.
Take into consideration your personal circumstances and goals when looking for a doctor to treat adult ADHD. Make an inventory of your symptoms as well as the problems you'd like to address and then find an expert with experience in those areas.
Family Physicians
Adults suffering from ADHD are most commonly treated by family doctors. They'll ask you about your symptoms, problems at work, school or in relationships. They'll also ask about your medical history and look at any childhood records, such as report cards. They can also help you manage your ADHD by suggesting accommodations, tools or changes that make it possible to succeed and reach your goals like those who don't suffer from ADHD. Consider these accommodations as a step that allows a person who is shorter to reach higher things.
Many doctors believe ADHD is due to an imbalance or lack of neurotransmitters. These are chemicals that allow different organs of your body to function. These doctors may prescribe medication to restore the balance of neurotransmitters. These drugs include stimulants, such as amphetamines, the methylphenidate. They also include non-stimulants such as atomoxetine and bupropion. Although they can be helpful for some, the majority of people with ADHD benefit more from psychotherapy or lifestyle modifications.
The symptoms of ADHD including inattention and impulsivity, may cause stress. They can also increase the risk of anxiety and depression, and cause people to be more likely to use alcohol or other drugs. This can actually worsen ADHD symptoms. People with ADHD often have to work harder to meet expectations at work and home and this can cause feelings of shame or guilt. This can cause strained relationships between family members and friends.
There is no cure for ADHD, but treatment can help you to be successful at work and home. It can help you turn ADHD symptoms into advantages such as being highly creative or having a good memory.
Getting diagnosed and treated can be difficult, but it's important to find a doctor who understands your symptoms and can assist you in managing them. You should also join an aid group to get the assistance you need. The more you understand about your symptoms and the best methods to manage them, you will be better prepared to face life's challenges. You'll be more likely to have positive relationships with your family, friends, and colleagues.
Neurologists
Many people with ADHD don't get diagnosed until adulthood and some don't discover they suffer from the condition at all. This can be for a variety of reasons. For instance, their symptoms may have been overlooked during their childhood because teachers or parents didn't notice them or provide them with the support they needed to thrive despite their ailments. Also, the comorbidity of other conditions like sleep disorders or depression could mimic the symptoms of ADHD, making it difficult to distinguish one from the other.
It's crucial to select a healthcare professional who has experience in diagnosing and treating ADHD among adults. A neurology specialist can offer thorough ADHD assessments and testing to assess the patient's cognitive abilities and psychosocial history, medical history, and other factors.
Ask your primary care doctor for recommendations or verify credentials with local neurology associations. It is also important to ensure that your neurologist is board-certified and has experience in treating adult ADHD patients. Find a neurologist who communicates clearly and provides details about the treatment options available to you.
A neurology expert can also examine for other disorders that are often associated with ADHD. This includes sleep disorders and learning disabilities. They can utilize electroencephalograms (EEG) to determine if someone has normal brain activity or if there's seizure disorder or another neurological issue that needs to treated to increase the effectiveness of their ADHD treatment.
A neuroscientist can also conduct psychotherapy to help adults who have ADHD cope with their difficulties and build self-confidence. For instance, they could teach strategies to manage time, plan work tasks, and keep things in order. They can also help people learn to tolerate frustration and address their anger and develop their interpersonal skills. They can also address the negative self-talk that has developed over the course of dealing with ADHD.
Psychologists
ADHD is treatable and the most effective treatments often include a combination of drugs, skills training, and psychotherapy. It is important to find the right professional for you. The best place to begin is with a primary care doctor or family physician who can get you started on the right path for treatment. Additionally, many have found it helpful to seek help from a counselor, therapist or coach.
Click On this page providers when looking for an adult ADHD expert. Create a list of symptoms and goals you wish to concentrate on in therapy, and inquire of prospective specialists about their treatment approach. You can also ask about their qualifications and education, as well as whether they have experience treating adults with ADHD.
Many psychologists are trained in the diagnosis and treatment of adult ADHD. They can employ a variety of psychotherapy techniques, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and inter-personal therapy. They may also employ mindfulness and relaxation techniques to enhance the client's ability self-regulate, and manage symptoms. These strategies are especially beneficial for those who suffer from low self-esteem, negative thoughts, and self-criticism.
Adult ADHD is a particular problem that is more difficult to manage than other mental health problems. They may also be more familiar with the ways ADHD affects relationships at work and in the workplace.
In some states psychologists can prescribe medication to their patients. They will refer patients who require psychiatric care to psychiatrists. The psychiatrists can diagnose ADHD and other psychiatric disorders that are typically associated with adult ADHD. They can diagnose depression, bipolar disorder and severe anxiety.
It is best to find an ADHD specialist in an established medical practice. This will give you the benefit of having a psychologist, psychiatrist or counselor in one place, and it can make it easier to exchange information and inform them about their respective care. Some psychiatrists are family-oriented and will see children as well as adults within the same family.