Doctors That Treat ADHD in Adults
If you're diagnosed with adult ADHD, you will likely be referred to an expert in mental health by your doctor. The two main kinds of specialists who treat ADHD are psychologists and psychiatrists. Psychiatrists can prescribe medication.
Your doctor may ask questions of your supervisors or coworkers as well as your teachers to find out about any issues you're experiencing at work or in school. They might also inquire about your family history and conduct psychological tests.
Psychiatrists
Certain psychiatrists are skilled in treating adults with ADHD However, it is recommended to seek out an expert. If your local mental health clinics or community centers offer referral services, they may have lists of specialists in the area. You can also search on the internet or ask friends for recommendations. If you have insurance, check to see which companies will accept your plan.
A psychiatrist, also known as a psychiatrist is a licensed doctor who prescribes medications to treat a variety psychiatric disorders, such as ADHD. Psychiatrists usually have training in differential diagnosis and can identify the root cause of your symptoms and recommend the appropriate treatment. They can also treat co-occurring conditions, such as anxiety or depression, bipolar disorders, or aggressive disorders that are co-occurring with ADHD.
Psychologists who treat adult ADHD concentrate on the psychological aspect of the disorder and work to help patients manage their symptoms by using talks therapy, usually psychodynamic or cognitive therapy. They may not be able to prescribe medication, but they can coordinate with an ADHD psychiatrist or medical doctor to oversee a patient's entire treatment plan. They can help patients learn how to improve their daily functioning. This can include organizing techniques and healthy habits that are related to eating, exercise, and sleep/wake schedules, or even methods for organizing.
Licensed Mental Health counselors or Professional Counselors are mental health professionals who have an advanced degree that provide various types of therapy. LMHCs and LPCs are certified to conduct initial assessments, and can refer clients for a more in-depth assessment with a psychologist, or psychiatrist. These therapists are also able to offer support groups or individual therapy for particular needs.
Many people who suffer from ADHD experience challenges in their relationships, and a psychiatrist can help them develop skills to improve communication and solve conflicts. Some psychiatrists provide family or marriage counseling. Some psychiatrists will work with a coach, therapist or a therapist that is specially trained to assist ADHD patients.
Consider your unique life circumstances and goals when searching for a doctor to treat adult ADHD. Create a list of your symptoms and concerns that you wish to address, and then search for an expert who has experience in these areas.
Family Physicians
Adults suffering from ADHD are typically treated by family physicians. They will ask you about your symptoms, concerns at school, work or in relationships. They'll also inquire about your medical history and they may look at the records from your childhood like report cards. They can assist you with managing ADHD by offering tools, accommodations, or adjustments that will enable you to reach and excel as people with ADHD. Consider these accommodations as a step-stool that allows a smaller person to attain higher goals.
Many doctors believe that ADHD is due to a shortage or imbalance in neurotransmitters. These are the chemicals that are responsible for allowing various parts of your body to function. As a result, these doctors may prescribe medication to restore the correct balance of neurotransmitters. These medications include stimulants such as amphetamines, methylphenidate, and bupropion, and non-stimulants like atomoxetine. They can be beneficial, but most people with ADHD prefer therapy or lifestyle changes.
Stress can be triggered by ADHD symptoms, particularly inattention and impulsivity. They also make people more susceptible of depression or anxiety and make them more prone to self-medicating using alcohol or drugs which can exacerbate their ADHD symptoms. People with ADHD are often required to perform more at home and at work to achieve their goals, which can lead 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 help you to be successful at work and home. It can help you turn some ADHD symptoms into advantages like being more creative or having an excellent memory.
Getting diagnosed and treated can be hard, but it's important to find a doctor that understands your symptoms and can assist you in managing them. You should also find a support network to get the assistance you need. The more you understand about your symptoms and the best way to deal with them, you will be better equipped to face the challenges of life. You'll be more likely to have positive relationships with your family, friends and colleagues.
Neurologists
Certain people with ADHD are not diagnosed until they reach adulthood. Others never learn that they have ADHD. This can be due to a variety of reasons. The symptoms may have been ignored by teachers or parents in childhood or they might not have received the help needed to thrive. Or, the comorbidity with other disorders, like depression or sleeping disorders, can mimic the ADHD symptoms which makes it difficult to distinguish the two.
It is essential to choose a healthcare professional who has experience in diagnosing and treating ADHD among adults. A specialist in neurology can provide complete ADHD tests and assessments to determine the patient's cognitive abilities as well as medical history, psychosocial context and other variables.
When selecting a neurologist, consult your primary physician for recommendations or consult with local neurology associations to verify credentials. Also, ensure that your neurologist is board certified and has experience in treating adult ADHD patients. Select a neurologist who communicates clearly and gives you details on the treatment options available.
A specialist in neurology will also be able to look for other conditions that often coexist with ADHD. These include sleep disorders and learning disabilities. They can perform electroencephalogram (EEG) tests to determine whether the brain activity of a patient is normal, or if they may have a seizure disorder or other neurological issue that should be addressed to increase the effectiveness of their ADHD treatment.
A neurologist can also conduct psychotherapy to help people with ADHD cope with their difficulties and build self-confidence. They can teach strategies for managing time, assist organize tasks and stay organized. They can also help individuals learn to accept frustration, address their anger, and improve their interpersonal skills. 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 can be treated. The most effective treatments are often the combination of medication, training for skills, and psychotherapy. However, it's important to find the right professional for you. Start by speaking with your primary care physician or family doctor, who will help you get started on the right path. Many have discovered that it is beneficial to seek assistance from an therapist, coach or counselor.
Find a variety of potential providers when searching for an adult ADHD expert. Make a list of the symptoms and goals that you want to concentrate on in therapy, and inquire of prospective specialists about their approach to treatment. psychological treatment for adhd in adults can also inquire about their education, training, and expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD.
Many psychologists have specific training in the diagnosis and treatment of adults with ADHD. They can employ a variety of psychotherapy techniques that include cognitive psychotherapy and interpersonal therapy. They may also utilize techniques of relaxation and mindfulness to help clients improve their ability to regulate their behavior and manage their symptoms. These techniques can be especially beneficial for adults who experience difficulties with self-esteem, negative self-talk, and self-criticism.
Psychologists who specialize in adult ADHD are often more attentive to the specific issues 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 can prescribe medication to their patients. However, they usually refer patients who require psychotherapeutic intervention to psychiatrists. They are able to diagnose ADHD and can also help clients suffering from other psychiatric issues that commonly co-occur with adult ADHD including bipolar disorder, depression and severe anxiety.
In general it's recommended to look for an ADHD specialist within an established medical practice. This can provide the convenience of having a psychologist, psychiatrist or counselor all in one place and makes it easier to share information and communicate with them about their respective care. Some psychiatrists are family-oriented and will treat children as well as adults within the same household.