Doctors That Treat ADHD in Adults
If you have adult ADHD, your doctor is likely to recommend you to a mental health specialist. Psychiatrists and psychologists are the two main kinds of specialists who treat ADHD. psychiatrists can prescribe medications.
Your psychologist may speak with your co-workers or supervisors, as and your teachers, to find out about any problems you are experiencing at work or in school. They may also ask you about your family history and conduct psychological tests.
Psychiatrists
Some psychiatrists have experience treating adults with ADHD. However, it is best to seek out a specialist. If your local mental health clinics or community centers offer referral services, they could have lists of specialists in the area. You can also ask your family or friends for recommendations or search online for recommendations. Check if your insurance plan is accepted by the providers.
A Psychiatrist is a physician who is authorized to prescribe medication for a range of mental disorders that include ADHD. They typically have specialized training in differential diagnosis and are able to identify the cause of your symptoms and suggest the most appropriate treatment. They can also treat comorbid disorders, such as anxiety or depression bipolar disorders, as well as aggressive disorders that co-occur along with ADHD.
Adult ADHD is managed by psychologists who focus on the psychological aspects of the disorder. They assist patients in coping with their symptoms by using talk therapy. This could be cognitive behavioral therapy or a psychodynamic therapy. They may not be able prescribe medication, but they are able to work with an ADHD psychiatrist or medical doctor to oversee the patient's complete treatment plan. They can teach patients how to improve their daily functioning. This includes organizing techniques and healthy habits that are related to diet, exercise and schedules for sleep/wake, or organizational techniques.
Licensed Mental Health Counselors or Professional Counselors (LMHC, LPC) are mental health professionals with an advanced degree and offer different types of talk therapy. LMHCs or LPCs can conduct initial assessments and refer clients to a psychiatrist or psychologist for a more detailed assessment. Therapists are also able to offer support groups and individual therapy for specific requirements.
A psychiatrist can assist people with ADHD who are having difficulties in their relationships. They can learn how to improve their communication skills and resolve conflicts. Some psychiatrists offer marriage or family counseling. Others will work with a coach or a specialist therapist who has been specifically trained to work with ADHD patients to ensure that their patients receive a comprehensive treatment plan along with their medication.
Be aware of your unique circumstances and goals when searching for a doctor who can treat adult ADHD. Create a list of your symptoms and concerns that you want to address, then find an expert who has experience in these areas.
Family Physicians
Adults suffering from ADHD are most commonly treated by family doctors. They'll ask you about your symptoms, concerns at school, work or in relationships. They'll also inquire about your medical history and review any records from childhood such as school reports. They can also assist you to manage your ADHD by recommending adjustments, tools or modifications that allow you to succeed and reach your goals like those who don't suffer from ADHD. Think of these accommodations as a step that allows a person who is shorter to achieve greater heights.
Many doctors believe that ADHD is caused by a shortage or imbalance of neurotransmitters, chemicals in the brain that allow various parts of the body to function. This is why these doctors may prescribe medication to restore the correct balance of neurotransmitters. These drugs include stimulants, such as amphetamines, methylphenidate, and non-stimulants, like atomoxetine or bupropion. They can be beneficial however, most people with ADHD prefer psychotherapy or lifestyle adjustments.
Signs of ADHD, especially inattention and impulsivity, may create stress. They also increase the likelihood of anxiety and depression, and cause people to be more likely to seek out self-medication with alcohol or other drugs. This can actually worsen ADHD symptoms. People who suffer from ADHD are often forced to perform more at home and at work to meet their goals, which can lead them to feel embarrassed or guilt. This can lead to strained relationships between family members and friends.
There is no cure for ADHD but treatment can make it easier to be successful at work and home. It can help turn ADHD symptoms into advantages, 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 must locate a doctor who can assist you to manage these symptoms. It's also important to find a support group so that you can receive the assistance you require. The more you understand about your symptoms and how to manage them, the better off you'll be able to handle the challenges of life. You'll also be more likely to maintain positive relationships with your family, coworkers and friends.
Neurologists
Many people with ADHD do not get diagnosed until adulthood Some don't even realize they are suffering from the condition in the first place. This can be for 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 thrive. Or, the comorbidity of other conditions like sleep disorders or depression can mimic 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 expertise in diagnosing and treating ADHD in adults. A neurology specialist can offer complete ADHD tests and assessments to assess the patient's cognitive abilities, psychosocial context, medical history, and other factors.
Ask your primary care doctor for recommendations or verify credentials with local associations for neurology. It is also important to confirm that your neurologist has expertise and board certification, as well as experience in treating adult ADHD. Find a neurologist who communicates clearly and provides you with details about the treatment options available to you.
A neurology expert will also be able to look for other conditions that can coexist with ADHD. This includes learning disabilities and sleeping disorders. They can perform electroencephalogram (EEG) tests to determine if a person's brain activity is normal or if they have a seizure-related disorder or another neurological issue that should be addressed in order to increase the effectiveness of their ADHD treatment.
A neurologist can also provide psychotherapy to help adults who have ADHD cope with their difficulties and develop positive self-perception. For instance, they could teach strategies for managing time, plan tasks and remain organized. They can also help individuals learn to accept frustration and deal with anger and develop their interpersonal skills. They can also address negative self-talk that develops over the course of dealing with ADHD.
Psychologists
ADHD can be treated, and the most effective treatments typically involve a combination of medications as well as skills training and psychotherapy. However, it's important to choose the right doctor for you. A good place to start is with a primary physician or family physician, who can help you begin on the right path for treatment. In addition, many people have found it helpful to seek advice from a counselor, therapist or coach.
Meet with several potential providers when looking for an adult ADHD expert. Ask potential specialists about how they approach treatment. Create Read the Full Guide of symptoms and goals you'd like to focus on during therapy. You could also inquire about their education, training, and experiences in treating adults with ADHD.
Many psychologists are trained to diagnose and treatment of adult ADHD. They may use a variety of psychotherapy methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy and interpersonal therapy. They can also employ relaxation and mindfulness techniques to increase the ability of the client to self-regulate and deal with the symptoms. These strategies can be particularly beneficial for adults who experience difficulty with self-esteem, negative self talk, and self-criticism.
Adult ADHD is a particular challenge that can be more difficult to manage than other mental health problems. They may also be more familiar with the ways ADHD affects relationships at work and in the workplace.
In some states, psychologists may prescribe medication to their patients. They will refer clients in need of psychiatric treatment to psychiatrists. Psychiatrists can diagnose ADHD and also assist clients with other psychiatric conditions that are often co-occurring with adult ADHD, such as bipolar disorder, depression, and severe anxiety.
In general it is recommended to look for an ADHD specialist within the larger medical practice. It's convenient to have a therapist, psychiatrist, or counselor in the same place. It also makes it easier for you to communicate and exchange information with them. Some psychiatrists are family-oriented, and will see children as well as adults within the same family.