Doctors That Treat ADHD in Adults
If you are diagnosed with adult ADHD then you will likely be referred to an expert in mental health by your physician. Psychologists and psychiatrists are the two primary types who treat ADHD. psychiatrists can prescribe medication.
Your specialist may interview co-workers as well as teachers, supervisors and coworkers to find out about your work or school performance problems. They could also inquire about your family history, and may use psychological tests.
Psychiatrists
Some psychiatrists have experience treating adults suffering from ADHD. However it is advisable to consult a specialist. If your local mental health clinics or community centers provide referral services, they might have lists of specialists in the region. You can also look online or ask your friends for recommendations. Make sure that your insurance plan is accepted by the providers.
A Psychiatrist is a physician who is authorized to prescribe medication for a variety of psychiatric conditions that include ADHD. They typically have specialized training in differential diagnosis. They can identify the root of your symptoms and recommend the appropriate treatment. They can also treat comorbid disorders, like anxiety or depression bipolar disorders, as well as aggressive disorders that are co-occurring with ADHD.
Psychologists who treat adults with ADHD focus on the psychological side of the condition and work to assist patients in coping with their symptoms through talk therapy, which is often called psychodynamic or cognitive therapy. They might not be able to prescribe medication, but they can collaborate with an ADHD medical professional or psychiatrist to manage the patient's entire treatment plan. They can teach patients strategies that help improve their everyday functioning, such as organizational strategies or healthy habits relating to exercise, diet and sleep/wake schedules.
Licensed Mental Health Counselors or Professional Counselors (LMHC, LPC) are mental health professionals with an advanced degree and offer various types of therapy. LMHCs and LPCs are certified to conduct initial assessments and can refer clients for a more in-depth evaluation with a psychologist or psychiatrist. These therapists can also provide support sessions or individual therapy to meet specific requirements.
Many people who suffer from ADHD experience challenges in their relationships. A psychiatrist can help them develop skills to improve communication and resolve conflicts. Some psychiatrists offer family or marriage therapy. Some psychiatrists collaborate with a therapist, coach or a therapist that is specially trained to work with ADHD patients.
When looking for a doctor who treats adult ADHD take into consideration the specific circumstances and goals you're pursuing in your life. Make a list of your symptoms and issues you want to tackle, then look for a practitioner who has experience in those areas.
Family Physicians
Family doctors are the most frequent healthcare providers who treat ADHD in adults. They'll talk to you about your symptoms and issues with school, work or relationships. They will also ask you about your medical history and may also look over the records from your childhood like report cards. They can assist you in managing ADHD by providing tools, accommodations or modifications that enable you to reach and excel as people with ADHD. Consider these accommodations as a step stool that allows a smaller person to achieve greater heights.
Many doctors believe ADHD is caused due to the absence or imbalance of neurotransmitters. These are the chemicals that signal different organs of your body to function. In the end, doctors may prescribe medications to restore the balance of neurotransmitters. These include stimulants such as amphetamines, methylphenidate, and bupropion, and non-stimulants like atomoxetine. While they can be beneficial for some, the majority of people with ADHD benefit more from psychotherapy or lifestyle changes.
Symptoms of ADHD such as impulsivity and inattention, can result in stress. They also increase the risk of depression or anxiety and lead them to self-medicating through alcohol or other drugs which can exacerbate their ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD are often forced to perform more at home and at work to meet their goals which can cause them to feel embarrassed or guilt. This can cause difficult relationships with family and friends.
There is no cure for ADHD but treatment can make it easier to succeed at work and at home. It can even assist you in turning some of your ADHD symptoms into positives, such as being highly creative or having a great memory.
Finding a doctor who understands your symptoms can be difficult however, you must find one who can help manage them. It is also important to find an organization that can provide the assistance you need. The more you understand about your symptoms and the best way to manage them, the better prepared you'll be able to deal with the challenges of life. You'll be more likely to have positive relationships with your family, friends and co-workers.
Neurologists
Certain people with ADHD are not diagnosed until they reach adulthood. Others never learn that they have ADHD. This could be due to various reasons. The symptoms may have been ignored by parents or teachers in childhood, or they may not have received the assistance needed to thrive. The comorbidity with other illnesses, like depression or sleeping disorders, could be similar to the ADHD symptoms, making it hard to distinguish between the two.
It's crucial to select the right healthcare professional with experience in diagnosing and treating ADHD in adults. A neurology specialist can offer complete ADHD tests and assessments to determine the patient's cognitive abilities, medical history, psychosocial context and other aspects.
Ask your primary physician for recommendations or check credentials with local associations for neurology. You also want to ensure that your neurologist is board-certified and has experience in treating adult ADHD patients. Find a neurologist who communicates clearly and gives you details on the treatment options available.
A neurology expert can also assess for comorbid disorders that often occur alongside ADHD for example, learning disabilities and sleep disorders. They can perform electroencephalogram (EEG) tests to determine whether a person's brain activity is normal or if they suffer from a seizure disorder or another neurological issue that must be addressed to maximize the effectiveness of their ADHD treatment.
A neurologist can also provide psychotherapy to help adults who have ADHD cope with their difficulties and build self-confidence. They can help teach strategies for managing time, and help organize tasks and stay organized. They can also help people learn to tolerate frustration, address their anger, and improve 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 require a combination of medication, skills training, and psychotherapy. However, adult adhd diagnostic assessment and treatment to choose the right doctor for you. Start by speaking with your primary medical doctor or family doctor, who will assist you in starting on the right track. In addition, many people have found it helpful to seek out help from a therapist, counselor, or coach.
Meet with several potential providers when looking for an adult ADHD expert. Ask prospective specialists how they approach treatment. Make a list with the symptoms you'd like to concentrate on during therapy. You can also ask about their training and education and if they have experience treating adults with ADHD.
Many psychologists have specific training in the diagnosis and treatment of adult ADHD. They can employ a variety of psychotherapy methods including cognitive behavior therapy and inter-personal therapy. They may also use mindfulness and relaxation techniques to increase the ability of the client to self-regulate and cope with symptoms. These strategies are particularly helpful for adults who have difficulties with self-esteem, negative self talk, and self-criticism.
Psychologists who specialize in adult ADHD are sometimes more attuned to the unique challenges of adult ADHD than other mental health professionals. They may be more knowledgeable about the ways ADHD affects work and relationships.
In some states, psychologists are able to prescribe medications for their patients. They will refer patients who require psychiatric care to psychiatrists. The psychiatrists can diagnose ADHD and other disorders of the psyche that are commonly associated with adult ADHD. These include bipolar disorder, depression, and severe anxiety.
In general it's a good idea to search for an ADHD specialist within a larger medical practice. This can provide the convenience of having a psychiatrist, psychologist or counselor in one location and can make it easier to share information and communicate with them about each other's care. Some psychiatrists are family-oriented, and will see children as well as adults within the same family.