Doctors That Treat ADHD in Adults
If you have ADHD, your doctor will likely refer you to a mental health specialist. The two primary kinds of specialists who treat ADHD are psychiatrists and psychologists. Psychologists are able to prescribe medication.
Your doctor may ask questions of your supervisors or coworkers as and your teachers, to find out about any issues you're having at work or in school. They might also inquire about your family history and conduct psychological testing.
Psychiatrists
Some psychiatrists have experience with treating adults with ADHD. However it is recommended to consult with a specialist. If your local mental health clinics or community centers offer referral services, they could have lists of specialists in the region. You can ask your friends or search online for recommendations. 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 prescribes medication to treat a variety psychiatric disorders, including ADHD. They are trained in the field of differential diagnosis and can determine the cause of symptoms and suggest appropriate treatment. They also treat comorbid disorders, such as depression, anxiety that is severe bipolar disorder, aggressive disorders, which co-occur with ADHD.
Psychologists who treat adults with ADHD concentrate on the psychological aspect of the condition and try to assist patients in coping with their symptoms through talks therapy, usually psychodynamic or cognitive therapy. They may not be able prescribe medication, but they can work with an ADHD medical professional or psychiatrist to manage the patient's entire treatment plan. They can teach patients strategies to improve their daily functioning, such as organizing techniques or healthy habits related to diet, exercise and sleep/wake schedules.
Licensed Mental health counselors or Professional Counselors are mental health professionals with master's degrees who offer different kinds of talk therapy. LMHCs or LPCs can conduct initial assessments and recommend clients to a psychiatrist or psychologist for a more comprehensive evaluation. These therapists are also able to provide support groups or individual therapy for specific requirements.
A psychiatrist can assist people with ADHD who have issues with their relationships. They can learn how to improve communication skills and solve conflicts. Some psychiatrists will offer marriage or family therapy. Others may work with a coach or therapist who is specifically trained to work with ADHD patients to ensure their patients receive a comprehensive treatment plan in addition to their medication.
Be aware of your unique circumstances and goals when looking for a doctor to treat adult ADHD. Make an inventory of your symptoms and problems you'd like to address and then search for an expert with prior experience in these areas.
Family Physicians
Family doctors are the most popular healthcare providers who treat ADHD in adults. They'll discuss with you your symptoms and concerns in school, work or relationships. They'll also inquire about your medical history and review any childhood records such as school reports. They can also help you manage your ADHD by recommending adjustments, tools or modifications that make it possible to reach and achieve the same level as those who don't suffer from ADHD. These accommodations can be like a step stool that helps those who are smaller to achieve greater goals.
Many doctors believe that ADHD is caused due to the absence or imbalance of neurotransmitters. These are the chemicals that signal different organs of your body to function. These doctors may prescribe medication to restore the balance of neurotransmitters. These medications include stimulants like amphetamines, methylphenidate and bupropion, and non-stimulants like atomoxetine. They can be beneficial, but most people with ADHD benefit from counseling or lifestyle modifications.
Stress can be triggered by ADHD symptoms, including impulsivity and lack of attention. They also increase the likelihood of anxiety and depression and cause people to be more likely to self-medicate with alcohol or drugs. This can worsen ADHD symptoms. People who suffer from ADHD often need to work harder to meet expectations at work and home which can trigger feelings of guilt or shame. This can lead to tensions between family members and friends.
There is no cure for ADHD but treatment can make it easier to achieve success at work and home. It can help you turn some ADHD symptoms into benefits such as being highly creative or having a good memory.
Finding a doctor who can understand the symptoms you are experiencing can be challenging, but you need to find one who can help manage them. It's also crucial to join a support group to get the help you require. The more you know about your symptoms and the best ways to deal with them, you will be better prepared to tackle the challenges of life. You'll be more likely to have positive relationships with your family, friends, and colleagues.
Neurologists
Many people who suffer from ADHD don't get diagnosed until later in life Some don't even realize they suffer from the condition in the first place. This can be due to various reasons. The symptoms may have been ignored by parents or teachers in their early years or they might not have received the assistance needed to thrive. Or, more information -factorial nature of other disorders such as sleep disorders or depression could mimic the symptoms of ADHD and make it difficult to distinguish one from the other.
It is crucial to select an expert in healthcare who has expertise in diagnosing and treating ADHD in adults. A neurology specialist can provide comprehensive ADHD tests and assessments to evaluate the cognitive capacity of the patient and psychosocial context, medical history, and other factors.
When choosing a neurologist, consult your primary doctor for referrals or check with local associations of neurologists to confirm credentials. Also, ensure that your neurologist is board-certified and has experience in treating adult ADHD patients. Find a neurologist who communicates clearly and gives you information about your treatment options.
A neurology specialist can also assess for comorbid conditions that frequently coexist with ADHD like learning disabilities and sleep disorders. They can employ electroencephalograms (EEG) to determine if a person has normal brain activity or if there's a seizure disorder, or another neurological issue that needs to treated to increase the effectiveness of their ADHD treatment.
A neurologist may also provide psychotherapy to help those suffering from ADHD overcome their challenges and improve their self-image. They can teach strategies for managing time, assist plan tasks and keep organized. They can help people learn to handle anger and frustration and also improve their relationships. In addition, they are able to address negative self-talk that has been accumulated as a result of years of struggling with ADHD.
Psychologists
ADHD is treatable and the most effective treatments often require a combination of medication as well as skills training and psychotherapy. However, it's important to find the right specialist for you. A good place to start is with a primary physician or family physician who can help you get started on the treatment path. Additionally, many have found it beneficial to seek advice from a counselor, therapist, or coach.
When searching for an adult ADHD specialist, be sure to talk with several potential providers. Ask prospective specialists how they approach treatment. Create a list of symptoms and goals you'd like to focus on in therapy. You can also inquire about their training and education and if they have expertise in treating adults with ADHD.
Many psychologists are certified in the diagnosis and treatment of adults with ADHD. They can employ a variety of psychotherapy methods that include cognitive psychotherapy and interpersonal therapy. They may also utilize techniques of relaxation and mindfulness to enhance a client's capacity to manage and cope with their symptoms. These strategies are especially helpful for adults who struggle with low self-esteem, negative thinking, and self-criticism.
Adult ADHD is a particular issue that can be more difficult to manage than other mental health problems. They might also be more aware of the way ADHD affects relationships at work and in the workplace.
In some states psychologists can prescribe medications for their patients. However, they usually refer clients who need psychotherapeutic treatment to psychiatrists. Psychiatrists can diagnose ADHD and can also help patients with other psychiatric disorders that are often co-occurring with adult ADHD including bipolar disorder, depression, and severe anxiety.
It's best to look for an ADHD specialist in a larger medical practice. It's more convenient to have a therapist, psychiatrist, or counselor in the same place. It also makes it easier for you to communicate and share information with them. Additionally, some psychiatrists have a family-oriented approach and are willing to see children and adults who are part of the same family.