Doctors That Treat ADHD in Adults
If you have ADHD Your doctor may refer you to a mental health specialist. Psychologists and psychiatrists are the two primary types of professionals who treat ADHD. Psychiatrists can prescribe medication.
Your specialist may interview co-workers, supervisors and teachers to get a better understanding of your school or work problems. They may also ask you about your family history and use psychological tests.
Psychiatrists
Certain psychiatrists are adept at treating adults suffering from ADHD However, it is recommended to seek out an expert. If your local mental health clinics or community centers provide referral services, they may have lists of specialists in the region. You can also ask your friends or browse the internet for recommendations. If you are insured, check to see which companies will accept your plan.
A psychiatrist, also known as a Psychiatrist is a licensed doctor who prescribes medication to treat a variety psychiatric disorders, including ADHD. They typically have specialized training in differential diagnosis. They are able to identify the cause of your symptoms and recommend the most appropriate treatment. They also treat comorbid disorders, like depression, severe anxiety, bipolar disorder, or aggressive disorders that are co-occurring with ADHD.
Psychologists who treat adults with ADHD focus on the psychological aspects of the disorder and work to help patients manage their symptoms through talk therapy, which is often called cognitive behavioral therapy or psychodynamic therapy. They may not be able prescribe medication, but they are able to work with an ADHD medical doctor or psychiatrist to manage the patient's entire treatment plan. They can teach patients how to improve their daily functioning. This can include organizing techniques and healthy habits that are related to diet, exercise and schedules for sleep/wake, or methods for organizing.
Licensed Mental Health Counselors or Professional Counselors (LMHC, LPC) are mental health professionals who have completed a masters degree and are able to provide different types of talk therapy. LMHCs and LPCs are qualified to conduct initial assessments, and they can refer their clients for a deeper assessment with a psychologist or psychiatrist. Therapists are also able to offer support groups and individual therapy for specific requirements.
Many people who suffer from ADHD encounter difficulties in their relationships, and a psychiatrist can help them develop skills to improve communication and resolve conflicts. Some psychiatrists provide marriage or family counseling. Others may work with a coach or therapy therapist who is 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 who can treat adult ADHD. Make a list with your symptoms and the issues you want to address, and then locate an expert who has experience in these areas.
Family Physicians
Family physicians are the most common healthcare professionals who treat ADHD in adults. They'll discuss your symptoms and concerns in school, work or relationships. They'll also ask you about your medical history, and may also look over records from childhood such as report cards. They can also assist you to manage your ADHD by suggesting accommodations, tools or changes that make it possible to achieve and succeed like people who don't have ADHD. These accommodations can be like a step stool that allows someone who is shorter to achieve greater goals.
adhd treatment for adults believe ADHD is due to an imbalance or lack of neurotransmitters. These are the chemicals that are responsible for allowing different organs of your body to function. As a result, these doctors may prescribe medication to restore the correct balance of neurotransmitters. These drugs include stimulants, like amphetamines and methylphenidate, and non-stimulants, including atomoxetine and bupropion. They can be beneficial however most people suffering from ADHD prefer therapy or lifestyle changes.
Stress can be triggered by ADHD symptoms, including the lack of focus and impulsivity. They also put people at risk of depression or anxiety and lead them to self-medicating through alcohol or other drugs, which can actually worsen their ADHD symptoms. People who suffer from ADHD are often forced to work more at home and at work to meet their goals which can cause them to feel shame or guilt. This can lead to difficult relationships with family and friends.
There is no cure for ADHD however, treatment can make it easier to succeed at work and home. It can help you turn ADHD symptoms into benefits, such as being creative or having an excellent memory.
Getting diagnosed and treated can be hard, but it's important to find a doctor who understands your symptoms and can help you manage them. You should also join a support network to get the assistance you need. The more you are aware of your symptoms and the best way to deal with them, you will be better prepared to tackle life's challenges. You'll also be more likely to maintain positive relationships with family members, colleagues and friends.
Neurologists
Many people who suffer from ADHD don't get diagnosed until adulthood and some don't realize they are suffering from the condition at all. This could be due to a variety of reasons. Symptoms may have been overlooked by parents or teachers in childhood, or they may not have received the assistance needed to be successful. Or, the comorbidity of other conditions such as sleep disorders or depression can be similar to the symptoms of ADHD which makes it difficult to differentiate one from the other.
It is essential to choose an expert in healthcare who has experience in diagnosing and treating ADHD in adults. A specialist in neurology can provide comprehensive ADHD tests and assessments to evaluate the patient's cognitive function as well as medical history, psychosocial context, and other factors.
When selecting a neurologist consult your primary physician for recommendations or consult with local associations for neurology to confirm credentials. You also want to ensure that the neurologist you choose is board certified and has experience in treating adult ADHD patients. Choose a neurologist who communicates clearly and offers information about your treatment options.
A neurology specialist can also evaluate for comorbid disorders that often occur alongside ADHD, such as sleep disorders and learning disabilities. They can use electroencephalograms (EEG) to determine if someone has normal brain activity or if they have seizure disorder or another neurological issue that needs to addressed to improve the effectiveness their ADHD medication.
A neuroscientist can also conduct psychotherapy to help adults with ADHD manage their issues and develop positive self-perception. For instance, they could teach strategies for managing time, plan tasks, and stay organized. They can also assist individuals to learn to manage their anger, address their anger, and improve their relationship skills. They can also help address the negative self-talk developed over years of dealing with ADHD.
Psychologists
ADHD can be treated, and the most effective treatments usually involve a combination of medications 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 care physician or family physician who can get you started on the right path for treatment. Many have discovered it beneficial to seek out help from an therapist, coach or counselor.
Meet with several potential providers when you are looking for an adult ADHD expert. Ask potential specialists about how they approach treatment. Create a list of symptoms and goals you'd like to address in therapy. You can also inquire about their qualifications and education, as well as whether they have expertise in treating adults with ADHD.
Many psychologists have specific training in the diagnosis and treatment of adults with ADHD. They can employ various psychotherapy methods, including cognitive psychotherapy and interpersonal therapy. They may also use mindfulness and relaxation techniques to improve a client's ability to regulate their behavior and manage their symptoms. These techniques can be especially helpful for adults who have issues with self-esteem, negative self-talk, and self-criticism.
Adult ADHD is a unique challenge that can be more difficult to manage than other mental health issues. In addition, they might be more aware of the ways that ADHD affects relationships and performance.
In some states psychologists can prescribe medication to their patients. However, they usually refer patients who require psychotherapeutic intervention to psychiatrists. Psychiatrists can diagnose ADHD as well as other psychiatric disorders that are often associated with adult ADHD. These include bipolar disorder, depression and severe anxiety.
In general it is an ideal idea to search for an ADHD specialist within a larger medical practice. This gives you the convenience of having a psychiatrist, psychologist or counselor all in one place, and it can make it easier to exchange information and inform them about each other's care. Additionally certain psychiatrists take a family-oriented approach and are willing to see children and adults who are part of the same family.