Doctors That Treat ADHD in Adults
If you have ADHD Your doctor is likely to refer you to a mental health professional. Psychiatrists and psychologists are the two major types of professionals who treat ADHD. Psychiatrists are able to prescribe medication.
Your doctor may speak with coworkers as well as teachers, supervisors and coworkers to learn about your school or work problems. They might also inquire about your family history, and may use psychological tests.
Psychiatrists
Some psychiatrists have experience with treating adults suffering from ADHD. However it is recommended to seek out a specialist. If your local mental health clinics or community centers offer referral services, they may have lists of specialists in the region. You can also search online or ask your friends for suggestions. If you are insured make sure you know which providers accept your plan.
A psychiatrist, also known as a psychiatrist, is a licensed physician who can prescribe medication to treat a variety psychiatric disorders including ADHD. They are trained in differential diagnosis, and can determine the root of the problem and recommend the appropriate treatment. They can also treat co-occurring disorders, including depression, severe anxiety, bipolar disorder, or aggressive disorders, that co-occur with ADHD.
Adult ADHD is managed by psychologists who focus on the psychological aspect of the condition. They help patients cope with symptoms through talk therapy. This can be cognitive behavioral therapy or a psychodynamic therapy. They may not be able prescribe medication, but they can work with an ADHD medical professional or psychiatrist to oversee the patient's treatment plan. They can help patients learn how to improve their daily functioning. This includes organizing techniques and healthy habits that are related to eating, exercise, and schedules for sleep/wake, or strategies for organizing.
Licensed Mental health counselors or Professional Counselors are mental health professionals with an advanced degree that provide different types of therapy. LMHCs and LPCs are able to conduct initial assessments, and can refer clients for a deeper assessment with a psychologist or psychiatrist. Therapists are also able to offer support sessions and individual therapy to address specific needs.
A psychiatrist can aid those with ADHD who are having difficulties in their relationships. They can learn to improve their communication skills and solve conflicts. Some psychiatrists provide family or marriage therapy. Others may work with a coach or specialist therapist who has been specifically trained in working with ADHD patients to ensure that their patients receive comprehensive behavioral support in addition to their medication.
Take into consideration your personal circumstances and goals when searching for a doctor who can treat adult ADHD. Make a list of your symptoms and problems you'd like to address and then search for an expert who has prior experience in these areas.
Family Physicians
Family doctors are the most frequent healthcare professionals who treat ADHD in adults. They will ask you about your symptoms, issues at school, work or in relationships. They'll also ask about your medical history and review any childhood records, such as report cards. They can assist you with managing ADHD by offering tools, accommodations, or modifications that allow you to achieve and excel as people with ADHD. These adjustments can be compared to an incline which allows someone who is shorter to achieve higher goals.
Many doctors believe that ADHD is caused by a shortage or imbalance of neurotransmitters, chemical substances in the brain that signal different parts of the body to function. Doctors may prescribe medication to restore the balance of neurotransmitters. These medications include stimulants, like amphetamines and methylphenidate, and non-stimulants, like atomoxetine or bupropion. They can be helpful however, most people with ADHD do better with therapy or lifestyle changes.
Signs of ADHD including impulsivity and inattention, can cause stress. They can also make people more susceptible of depression or anxiety and increase their risk to self-medicating using alcohol or drugs, which can actually worsen their ADHD symptoms. People with ADHD are often required to work harder at home and at work to meet their goals which can cause them to feel ashamed or guilt. This can result in strained relationships between family members and friends.
There is no cure for ADHD, but treatment can help you to be successful at work and at home. It could even help you turn some of your ADHD symptoms into positives, 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 that understands your symptoms and can assist you in managing these. It's also important to find a support group to ensure you receive the assistance you require. The more you understand about your symptoms and how to deal with them, the better off you'll be at handling life's challenges. You'll also be more likely to maintain positive relationships with family, colleagues and friends.
Neurologists
Certain people with ADHD are not diagnosed until they reach adulthood. Others never learn that they suffer from ADHD. This can be due to many reasons. For instance, their symptoms could have been ignored during their childhood because parents or teachers did not notice them or provided them with the support they needed to flourish despite their issues. The comorbidity of other conditions like depression or sleep disorders can be similar to the symptoms of ADHD and make it difficult to differentiate one from the other.
It is essential to select an expert in healthcare who is experienced in diagnosing and treating ADHD in adults. This includes neurology specialists who can conduct comprehensive ADHD tests and assessments to evaluate the patient's cognitive performance, medical history, and psychosocial context.
Ask your primary care doctor for recommendations or verify credentials with local associations for neurology. You should also ensure that your doctor has the board certification and has experience treating adults with ADHD. Select a neurologist who communicates clearly and provides details about the treatment options available to you.
A neurology specialist can also evaluate for comorbid conditions that frequently coexist with ADHD, such as learning disabilities and sleep disorders. They can use electroencephalogram (EEG) tests to determine if a person's brain activity is normal or if they have a seizure disorder or another neurological issue that should be addressed in order to maximize the effectiveness of their ADHD treatment.
A neurologist can also offer psychotherapy to help adults with ADHD overcome their issues and improve their self-image. They can teach strategies for managing time, assist organize tasks and stay organized. They can also help individuals learn to manage their anger and deal with anger and develop their interpersonal skills. They can also address negative self-talk that has developed over the course of dealing with ADHD.
Psychologists
ADHD can be treated. The most effective treatments are typically the combination of medication, skill-training, and psychotherapy. But, it's crucial to find the right professional for you. It's best to start by talking with your primary care physician or family doctor to help you get started on the right path. In evidence based treatment for adhd in adults , many people have found it helpful to seek advice from a counselor, therapist or coach.
If you are looking for an adult ADHD specialist, be sure to speak with various potential providers. Create a list of symptoms and goals you wish to focus on in therapy, and inquire of potential specialists about their treatment approach. You may also inquire about their education, training and expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD.
Many psychologists are trained in the diagnosis and treatment adult ADHD. They can employ a variety of psychotherapy methods including cognitive behavior therapy and inter-personal therapy. They may also use relaxation and mindfulness techniques to enhance the capacity of the client to manage their own emotions and cope with symptoms. These strategies are especially helpful for those who suffer from low self-esteem, negative thoughts and self-criticism.
Psychologists who specialize in adult ADHD are often more sensitive to the particular difficulties of adult ADHD than other mental health professionals. They could also be more familiar with the ways ADHD affects work and relationships.
In certain states, psychologists are able to prescribe medication to their patients. They will refer clients who require psychiatric care to psychiatrists. The psychiatrists can diagnose ADHD as well as other disorders of the psyche that are commonly associated with adult ADHD. They can diagnose bipolar disorder, depression and severe anxiety.
In general it is an ideal idea to search for an ADHD specialist within the larger medical practice. It's beneficial to have a psychiatrist, therapist, or counselor in the same location. It can also make it easier to communicate and exchange information with them. Additionally certain psychiatrists take a family-oriented approach and are willing to see children and adult members of the same family.