Doctors That Treat ADHD in Adults
If you have ADHD, your doctor is likely to recommend you to a mental health specialist. The two main kinds of specialists who treat ADHD are psychologists and psychiatrists. Psychiatrists are able to prescribe medication.
Your consultant may talk to coworkers, supervisors and teachers to find out about your work or school performance issues. They may also ask about your family history and conduct psychological tests.
Psychiatrists
Some psychiatrists have experience treating adults suffering from ADHD. However it is advisable to seek out a specialist. If your local mental health clinics or community centers provide referral services, they may have lists of specialists in the area. You can also look online or ask friends for suggestions. Verify that your insurance plan is accepted by the providers.
A Psychiatrist is a doctor who is licensed to prescribe medication for a range of mental disorders such as ADHD. Psychiatrists are trained in differential diagnosis, and can determine the cause of symptoms and recommend the appropriate treatment. They can also treat co-occurring disorders, such as depression, anxiety that is severe bipolar disorder, aggressive disorders, which co-occur with ADHD.
Psychologists who treat adult ADHD concentrate on the psychological aspect of the condition and try to help patients cope with their symptoms through talk therapy, which is often called psychodynamic or cognitive therapy. They may not be able to prescribe medication however they can work with an ADHD physician or psychiatrist to oversee a patient's entire treatment plan. They can help patients develop strategies that help improve their everyday functioning, such as organizational strategies or healthy habits relating to exercise, diet and sleep/wake routines.
Licensed Mental health counselors or Professional Counselors are mental health professionals who have an advanced degree that provide various types of talk therapy. LMHCs or LPCs can conduct initial assessments and refer clients to a psychiatrist or psychologist to conduct a more thorough evaluation. These therapists can also provide support groups or individual therapy for particular requirements.
A psychiatrist can assist people with ADHD who have difficulties in their relationships. They can learn how to improve their communication skills and resolve conflicts. Some psychiatrists will offer family or marriage therapy. Others will work with a coach or a therapy therapist who is trained in working with ADHD patients to ensure their patients receive a comprehensive treatment plan alongside their medication.
Consider your unique life circumstances and goals when searching for a doctor to treat adult ADHD. Make a list of the symptoms and concerns that you want to address, and then search for a practitioner with experience in these areas.
Family Physicians
Adults suffering from ADHD are typically treated by family doctors. They'll ask you about your symptoms, concerns at work, school, or in relationships. They'll also inquire about your medical history, and they may look at records from childhood such as report cards. They can assist you with managing ADHD by suggesting tools, accommodations or adjustments that will allow you to achieve and be successful as those with ADHD. Consider these accommodations as a step that allows a smaller person to achieve greater heights.
Many doctors believe ADHD is caused by the absence or imbalance of neurotransmitters. These are chemicals that signal various parts of your body to function. The doctors may prescribe medications to restore the balance of neurotransmitters. These medications include stimulants like amphetamines, methylphenidate and bupropion, as well as non-stimulants such as atomoxetine. They can be helpful however, most people with ADHD benefit from counseling or lifestyle modifications.
Stress can be caused by ADHD symptoms, including the lack of focus and impulsivity. They can 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 with ADHD are often forced to work more at home and at work to meet expectations and this can cause them to feel embarrassed or guilt. This can lead to tension between family members and friends.
ADHD isn't treatable, but the right treatment can make you more successful at work and at home. It could even help you turn your ADHD symptoms into positives, such as being highly creative or having a good memory.
Finding a doctor that understands the symptoms you are experiencing can be challenging but you must find a doctor 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 methods to deal with them, you will be better prepared to tackle life's challenges. You'll also be more likely to enjoy positive relationships with family members, colleagues and friends.
Neurologists
Many people who suffer from ADHD aren't diagnosed until they reach adulthood Some don't even discover they suffer from the condition in the first place. This can be due to many reasons. The symptoms may have been ignored by parents or teachers in childhood, or they may not have received the support required to flourish. The comorbidity with other conditions, such as sleeping disorders or depression can mimic the ADHD symptoms which makes it difficult to distinguish the two.
It is crucial to select a healthcare professional who has experience in diagnosing and treating ADHD among adults. A neurology specialist can offer complete ADHD tests and assessments to evaluate the patient's cognitive function and medical history, psychosocial context and other aspects.
Consult your primary care physician for recommendations or verify credentials with local associations for neurology. Also, ensure that your neurologist is board-certified and experienced in treating adult ADHD patients. Choose a neurologist that communicates clearly and offers information about your treatment options.
A neurology expert can also look for other conditions that are often associated with ADHD. This includes learning disabilities and sleeping disorders. They can use electroencephalogram (EEG) tests to determine whether the brain activity of a person is normal, or if they may suffer from a seizure disorder or another neurological issue that should be addressed to improve the effectiveness of their ADHD medication.
A neuroscientist can also conduct psychotherapy to help adults with ADHD overcome their challenges and improve their self-esteem. For example, they can teach strategies for managing time, plan work tasks, and remain organized. They can also assist individuals to learn to manage their anger and address their anger and develop 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 typically include a combination of drugs as well as skills training and psychotherapy. It is important to find the right professional for you. A good place to start is with a primary care physician or family physician, who can help you begin on the right path for treatment. Additionally, many have found it beneficial to seek out help from a therapist, counselor or coach.
When you're looking for an adult ADHD specialist, be sure to speak with several potential providers. Create non medication treatment for adhd adults of symptoms and goals you wish to focus on in therapy, and ask prospective specialists about their approach to treatment. You can also inquire about their education, training, and experience in treating adults with ADHD.
A lot of psychologists are trained to diagnose and treatment of adults with ADHD. They may use a range of psychotherapy techniques, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and inter-personal therapy. They may also utilize techniques of relaxation and mindfulness 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.
Adult ADHD is a unique issue that can be more difficult to manage than other mental health issues. They could be more knowledgeable about the way ADHD affects relationships at work and in the workplace.
In some states psychologists can prescribe medications to their patients. They can refer patients who require psychiatric treatment to psychiatrists. Psychiatrists are able to diagnose ADHD as well as other psychiatric disorders commonly associated with adult ADHD. These include depression, bipolar disorder and severe anxiety.
In general it is an ideal idea to search for an ADHD specialist within an established medical practice. This gives you the convenience of having a psychiatrist, psychologist or counselor in one place and makes it easier to share information and communicate with the other about each other's treatment. Some psychiatrists are family-oriented and will see children as well as adults in the same family.