Doctors That Treat ADHD in Adults
If you have ADHD, your doctor may recommend you to a mental health specialist. Psychiatrists and psychologists are the two primary kinds of specialists who treat ADHD. Psychologists can prescribe medications.
Your doctor may ask questions of your co-workers or supervisors, as well as your teachers, to find out about any problems you are experiencing at work or at school. They could also inquire about your family history, and may use psychological testing.
Psychiatrists
Certain psychiatrists are adept at treating adults suffering from ADHD However, it is best to find an expert. If your local mental clinics or community centers offer referral services, then they might have a list of specialists in your local area. You can also search online or ask your friends for recommendations. Make sure that your insurance plan is recognized by the insurers.
A Psychiatrist is a physician who is authorized to prescribe medication for a range of psychiatric conditions, including ADHD. They are trained in the field of differential diagnosis and can identify the cause of symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment. They can also treat comorbid disorders, like anxiety or depression bipolar disorders, aggressive disorders that occur in conjunction with ADHD.
Adult ADHD is handled by psychologists who concentrate on the psychological aspect of the condition. They assist patients in coping with their symptoms by using talk therapy. This can include cognitive behavioral therapy or a psychodynamic therapy. They may not be able prescribe medications, but they can collaborate with an ADHD psychiatrist or medical doctor to oversee the patient's complete treatment plan. They can help patients develop strategies to improve their daily functioning, such as organizing methods or healthy habits linked to diet, exercise, sleep/wake routines.
Licensed Mental Health counselors or Professional Counselors are mental health professionals who have master's degrees who offer various types of talk therapy. LMHCs and LPCs are able to conduct initial assessments, and can refer clients for a deeper assessment with a psychologist or psychiatrist. These therapists are also able to provide support sessions or individual therapy to meet specific requirements.
A psychiatrist can aid those with ADHD who have difficulties in their relationships. They can learn how to improve communication skills and solve conflicts. Some psychiatrists provide marriage or family counseling. Others will collaborate with a coach or therapy therapist who is trained in working with ADHD patients to ensure their patients receive a comprehensive treatment plan in addition to their medication.
When looking for a doctor who treats adults with ADHD be sure to consider the unique circumstances and goals you have set for your life. Make a list of the symptoms and issues that you want to address, then find an expert with expertise in these areas.
Family Physicians
Adults suffering from ADHD are typically treated by family doctors. They'll discuss your symptoms and problems with school, work or relationships. They will also ask you about your medical history, and may also look over records from childhood such as report cards. They can also help you manage your ADHD by suggesting adjustments, tools or modifications that allow you to reach and achieve the same level as people who don't have ADHD. These accommodations can be like an incline which helps those who are smaller to achieve greater goals.
Many doctors believe ADHD is due to an imbalance or lack of neurotransmitters. These are chemicals that allow different parts of your body to function. These doctors may prescribe medication to restore the balance of neurotransmitters. These medications include stimulants such as amphetamines and methylphenidate as well as bupropion, and non-stimulants like atomoxetine. They can be helpful, but most people with ADHD do better with therapy or lifestyle changes.
The symptoms of ADHD such as impulsivity and inattention, can cause stress. They also put people at risk of anxiety or depression and make them more prone to self-medicating through alcohol or other drugs which can worsen their ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD are often forced to perform more at home and at work to meet expectations, which can lead them to feel ashamed or guilt. This can result in strained relationships between family members and friends.
ADHD isn't cureable, but the correct treatment can help you achieve success at work and at home. It can help you turn ADHD symptoms into positives like being more creative or having an excellent memory.
Finding a doctor and getting treated can be difficult, but it's important to find a doctor who is aware of your symptoms and can help you manage these. It is also important to find an organization that can provide the help you require. The more you know about your symptoms and how to deal with them, the better prepared you'll be able to deal with life's challenges. You'll be more likely to enjoy positive relationships with your family, friends and colleagues.
Neurologists
Many people with ADHD aren't diagnosed until they reach adulthood and some don't discover they are suffering from the condition at all. This could be due to a variety of reasons. The symptoms may have been ignored by parents or teachers in their early years or they may not have received the assistance required to flourish. The comorbidity with other disorders, like sleeping disorders or depression may resemble the ADHD symptoms and make it difficult to differentiate between the two.
It is essential to choose the right healthcare professional with experience in diagnosing and treating ADHD among adults. This includes neurology specialists who are able to perform comprehensive ADHD testing and assessments to assess a patient's cognitive functioning medical history, as well as psychosocial context.
When selecting a neurologist consult your primary physician for recommendations or consult with local associations for neurology to confirm credentials. You should also ensure that your neurologist has board certification and experience treating adult ADHD. Find a neurologist who communicates clearly and gives you details about the treatment options available to you.
A specialist in neurology can also assess for other conditions that can coexist with ADHD. This includes sleep disorders and learning disabilities. They can employ electroencephalograms (EEG) to determine if a person is experiencing normal brain activity or if they have seizure disorder or a different neurological issue that must be dealt with to improve the effectiveness of their ADHD medication.
A neurologist can also provide psychotherapy to help adults who have ADHD overcome their challenges and build self-confidence. For example, they can teach strategies to manage time, plan tasks and remain organized. They can help people learn to manage anger and frustration, as well as improve their relationships. In addition, they are able to deal with negative self-talk that been accumulated as a result of years of struggling with ADHD.
Psychologists
ADHD is treatable and the most effective treatments often include a combination of drugs, skills training, and psychotherapy. It's important to choose the right specialist. You can start by consulting your primary care physician or family doctor, who will assist you in starting on the right track. Additionally, many have found it helpful to seek advice from a counselor, therapist or coach.
Meet with several potential providers when you are looking for an adult ADHD expert. 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 qualifications and education, and if they have prior experience treating adults suffering from ADHD.
A lot of psychologists have training in the diagnosis and treatment of adults with ADHD. They can employ a variety of psychotherapy methods, including cognitive behavior therapy and interpersonal therapy. adhd treatment for adults may also utilize mindfulness and relaxation techniques to improve a client's ability to manage and cope with their symptoms. These techniques are particularly beneficial for those who suffer from low self-esteem, negative thoughts, and self-criticism.
Psychologists who specialize in adult ADHD are often more attentive to the unique difficulties of adult ADHD than other mental health professionals. They may be more knowledgeable about the ways ADHD affects relationships at work and in the workplace.
In some states psychologists can prescribe medication to their patients. However, they typically refer clients who need psychotherapeutic intervention to psychiatrists. Psychiatrists can diagnose ADHD and can also help patients with other psychiatric disorders that often co-occur with ADHD like bipolar disorder, depression, and severe anxiety.
It's best to look for an ADHD specialist in a larger medical practice. This gives you the convenience of having a psychiatrist, psychologist or counselor all in one location and makes it easier to share information and communicate with the other about each other's treatment. In addition, some psychiatrists have a family-oriented approach and are willing to treat children as well as adults who are part of the same family.