Doctors That Treat ADHD in Adults
If you suffer from adult ADHD Your doctor may recommend you to a mental health specialist. Psychologists and psychiatrists are the two main types who treat ADHD. Psychiatrists are able to prescribe medication.
Your specialist may interview your co-workers or supervisors, 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 background and use psychological tests.
Psychiatrists
Some psychiatrists have experience treating adults with ADHD. However it is recommended to consult with 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 ask your friends or browse the internet for recommendations. If you have insurance, check to see which insurance companies accept your plan.
A Psychiatrist or physician is someone who is authorized to prescribe medication for a range of psychiatric conditions, including ADHD. They typically have specialized training in differential diagnosis. They are able to determine the cause of your symptoms and recommend the most 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 focus on the psychological aspects of the condition and try to assist patients in coping with their symptoms through talk therapy, often psychodynamic or cognitive behavioral therapy. They might not be able prescribe medication but they can collaborate with an ADHD psychiatrist or medical doctor to manage a patient's complete treatment plan. They can provide strategies to patients to improve their daily functioning, such as organizing techniques or healthy habits related to diet, exercise, sleep/wake routines.
Licensed Mental Health Counselors or Professional Counselors are mental health professionals who have an advanced degree that provide various types of therapy. LMHCs or LPCs can conduct initial assessments and recommend clients to a psychologist or psychiatrist to conduct a more thorough assessment. These therapists are also able to provide support sessions or individual therapy to meet particular needs.
A psychiatrist can assist people with ADHD who have difficulties in their relationships. They can learn how to improve communication skills and resolve conflicts. Some psychiatrists provide marriage or family therapy. Some psychiatrists collaborate with a coach, therapist or a therapist that is specifically trained to assist ADHD patients.
Be aware of your unique circumstances and goals when searching for a doctor to treat adult ADHD. Make a list of your symptoms and the problems you'd like to address, then look for an expert with prior experience in these areas.
Family Physicians
Adults suffering from ADHD are most commonly treated by family doctors. They'll ask you about your symptoms, problems at work, school or in relationships. They'll also ask about your medical history and look at any records from childhood such as school reports. They can assist you with managing ADHD by suggesting tools, accommodations or adjustments that will enable you to reach and excel as people with ADHD. These accommodations can be similar to the step stool which allows someone who is shorter to reach higher goals.
Many doctors believe that ADHD is caused by a deficiency or imbalance of neurotransmitters, chemicals found in the brain that allow different organs of the body to function. These doctors may prescribe medication to restore the balance of neurotransmitters. These medications include stimulants like amphetamines, methylphenidate and bupropion, and non-stimulants like atomoxetine. Although they can be helpful for some, the majority of people with ADHD benefit more from psychotherapy or lifestyle modifications.
The symptoms of ADHD such as inattention and impulsivity, can cause stress. They can also increase the risk of anxiety and depression, and increase the likelihood to use alcohol or other drugs. This can lead to worsening of ADHD symptoms. untreated adhd in adults depression suffering from ADHD are often required to work harder at home and at work to achieve their goals which can cause them to feel ashamed or guilt. This can cause tensions between family members and friends.
There is no cure for ADHD, but treatment can make it easier to be successful at work and at home. It can help turn ADHD symptoms into benefits such as being creative or having an excellent memory.
Finding a doctor and getting treated can be difficult and stressful, but it's crucial to find a doctor who is aware of your symptoms and can help you manage them. It's also important to find a support organization so that you can get the help you need. The more you are aware of your symptoms and the best ways to manage them, you will be better prepared to tackle the challenges of life. You'll also be more likely to maintain positive relationships with family, friends and co-workers.
Neurologists
Many people who suffer from ADHD don't get diagnosed until they reach adulthood, and some never discover they suffer from the condition at all. This can be due to various reasons. For instance, their symptoms may have been overlooked in their early years because their parents or teachers didn't recognize them or provide them with the supportive environment they needed to thrive despite their ailments. Or, the comorbidity of other conditions like depression or sleep disorders can be similar to the symptoms of ADHD which makes it difficult to differentiate one from the other.
It is essential to select the right healthcare professional who has expertise in diagnosing and treating ADHD in adults. This includes a neurology specialist who can conduct comprehensive ADHD tests and assessments to assess the cognitive function of a patient, medical history, and psychosocial context.
Ask your primary physician for recommendations or check credentials with local neurology associations. It is important to ensure that your neurologist is board certification and experience treating adult ADHD. Choose a neurologist who communicates clearly and provides you with details on the treatment options available.
A neurology expert can also assess for comorbid disorders that often coexist with ADHD for example, learning disabilities and sleep disorders. They can conduct electroencephalogram (EEG) tests to determine if a person's brain activity is normal or if they suffer from a seizure disorder or other neurological issue that should be addressed to maximize the effectiveness of their ADHD medication.
A neurologist can also provide psychotherapy to help people with ADHD cope with their difficulties and build self-confidence. They can help teach strategies for managing time, assist organize tasks and stay organized. They can help people learn to manage anger and frustration and also improve their relationships. In addition, they can tackle negative self-talk which has developed as a result of years of struggling with ADHD.
Psychologists
ADHD can be treated. The most effective treatment options are usually an amalgamation of medication, skill-training and psychotherapy. It is crucial to choose the right doctor. Start by speaking with your primary medical doctor or family doctor to help you get started on the right path. Many have discovered that it is beneficial to seek out help from an therapist, coach or counselor.
When searching for an adult ADHD specialist, be sure to speak with several potential providers. Make a list of symptoms and goals you want to concentrate on during therapy, and then ask potential specialists about their approach to treatment. You can also ask about their education and training, as well as whether they have expertise in treating adults with ADHD.
A lot of psychologists are trained to diagnose and treatment of adult ADHD. They can employ a variety of psychotherapy methods including cognitive behavior therapy and inter-personal therapy. They may also utilize techniques of relaxation and mindfulness to enhance a client's capacity to manage and cope with their symptoms. These strategies are particularly helpful for adults who have issues with self-esteem, negative self-talk and self-criticism.
Psychologists who specialize in adult ADHD are often more sensitive to the specific issues of adult ADHD than other mental health professionals. They may also be more aware of the ways ADHD affects relationships and work.
In some states, psychologists may prescribe medication to their patients. They will refer patients who require psychiatric care to psychiatrists. They are able to diagnose ADHD and can also help patients with other psychiatric disorders that commonly co-occur with adult ADHD, such as bipolar disorder, depression, and severe anxiety.
It is best to find an ADHD specialist in an established medical practice. It's convenient to have a psychiatrist, therapist or counselor in the same place. It can also make it easier for you to communicate and exchange information with them. Additionally some psychiatrists have an approach that is family-oriented and are willing to treat children as well as adults who are part of the same family.