Doctors That Treat ADHD in Adults
If you are diagnosed with adult ADHD then you are likely to be recommended to an expert in mental health by your doctor. Psychiatrists and psychologists are the two primary kinds of specialists who treat ADHD. Psychiatrists are able to prescribe medications.
Your doctor may speak with coworkers, supervisors and teachers to find out about your school or work problems. They could also inquire about your family history, and may use psychological testing.
Psychiatrists
Certain psychiatrists are adept at treating adults with ADHD however it is recommended to seek out a specialist. If your local mental health clinics or community centers offer referral services, they might have lists of specialists in the area. You can also search online or ask your friends for suggestions. Verify that your insurance plan is accepted by the providers.
A psychiatrist, also known as a Psychiatrist is a licensed doctor who can prescribe medication to treat a variety psychiatric disorders, including ADHD. Psychiatrists typically have specialized training in differential diagnosis. They are able to identify the root cause of your symptoms and recommend the most appropriate treatment. They can also treat comorbid conditions, such as anxiety or depression bipolar disorders, as well as aggressive disorders that occur in conjunction with ADHD.
Psychologists who treat adults with ADHD concentrate on the psychological side of the condition and work to assist patients in coping with their symptoms by using talk therapy, often psychodynamic or cognitive therapy. They might not be able to prescribe medications however they can work with an ADHD physician or psychiatrist to oversee a patient's complete treatment plan. They can help patients learn how to improve their daily functioning. This could include organizing strategies, healthy habits related eating, exercise, and sleep/wake schedules, or even methods for organizing.
Licensed Mental Health Counselors or Professional Counselors are mental health professionals with master's degrees who offer various types of therapy. LMHCs and LPCs are certified to conduct initial assessments, and they can refer their clients for a deeper evaluation with a psychologist or psychiatrist. Therapists can also provide support groups and individual therapy for particular requirements.
Many people who suffer from ADHD encounter difficulties in their relationships, and a psychiatrist can help them develop skills to improve communication and solve conflicts. Some psychiatrists provide marriage or family counseling. Some psychiatrists work with a coach, therapist or a therapist that is specially trained to assist ADHD patients.
Consider your unique life circumstances and goals when looking for a doctor to treat adult ADHD. Make an inventory of your symptoms and the issues you want to tackle and then search for an expert who has experience in those areas.
Family Physicians
Adults with ADHD are most commonly treated by family doctors. They'll discuss with you your symptoms and problems with school, work or relationships. They'll also ask about your medical history and review any childhood records, such as report cards. They can also assist you to manage your ADHD by suggesting accommodations, tools or changes that allow you to succeed and reach your goals like people who do not have ADHD. These adjustments can be compared to an incline which helps those who are smaller to reach higher goals.
Many doctors believe that ADHD is due to a lack or imbalance of neurotransmitters, chemical substances in the brain that instruct different organs of the body to function. The doctors may prescribe medications to restore the balance of neurotransmitters. These drugs include stimulants, such as amphetamines, methylphenidate, and non-stimulants, including atomoxetine and bupropion. While they can be beneficial, most people with ADHD benefit more from lifestyle or psychotherapy.
Stress can be caused by ADHD symptoms, particularly the lack of focus and impulsivity. They also increase the risk of anxiety and depression and cause people to be more likely to seek out self-medication with alcohol or drugs. This can lead to worsening of ADHD symptoms. People with ADHD often must work harder to meet expectations at work and home, which can lead to feelings of shame or guilt. This can lead to tensions between family members and friends.
ADHD isn't cureable, but the correct treatment can make you more successful in your work and at home. It can help turn ADHD symptoms into advantages like being more creative or having an excellent memory.
Being diagnosed and treated can be hard and stressful, but it's crucial to find a doctor who understands your symptoms and can assist you in managing these. It's also important to find a support organization to get the help you require. 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 enjoy positive relationships with your family, friends and colleagues.
Neurologists
Certain people with ADHD are not diagnosed until they reach the age of adulthood. Others never learn that they have ADHD. This can be due to many reasons. It is possible that symptoms were not noticed by teachers or parents during their childhood or they might not have received the support required to flourish. Also, the multi-factorial nature of other disorders such as sleep disorders or depression could mimic the symptoms of ADHD, making it difficult to differentiate one from the other.
It is essential to select an expert in healthcare who has expertise in diagnosing and treating ADHD in adults. This includes neurology specialists who are able to conduct thorough ADHD tests and assessments to evaluate the patient's cognitive performance as well as medical history and psychosocial context.
Consult your primary care physician for recommendations or verify credentials with local neurology associations. It is important to ensure that your neurologist has the board certification and has experience treating adult ADHD. Choose a neurologist who speaks clearly and provides you with information about your treatment options.
A neurology expert can also look for comorbid disorders that often occur alongside ADHD for example, learning disabilities and sleep disorders. They can use electroencephalograms (EEG) to determine if a person is experiencing normal brain activity or if there's seizures, or other neurological issue, which needs to be addressed to improve the effectiveness their ADHD treatment.
A neurologist can also provide psychotherapy to help people with ADHD manage their issues and develop positive self-perception. They can help teach time management strategies, help organize tasks and stay organized. They can also help people learn to manage their anger, address their anger, and develop their interpersonal skills. They can also help address the negative self-talk developed over years of dealing with ADHD.
Psychologists
ADHD is treatable, and the most effective treatments often include a combination of drugs as well as skills training and psychotherapy. However, it's important to find the right professional for you. The best place to begin is with a primary care physician or family physician, who can help you begin on the treatment path. In addition, many people have found it beneficial to seek help from a counselor, therapist or coach.
When you're looking for an adult ADHD specialist, be sure to speak with several potential providers. Create a list of symptoms and goals you want to address during therapy, and then ask prospective specialists about their approach to treatment. You can also inquire about their qualifications and education, as well as whether they have prior experience treating adults suffering from ADHD.
Many psychologists have specific training in the diagnosis and treatment of adult ADHD. They may use a range of psychotherapy methods, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and inter-personal therapy. They can also employ mindfulness and relaxation techniques to improve a client's ability to self-regulate 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 particular difficulties of adult ADHD than other mental health professionals. They could also be more aware of the ways ADHD affects relationships at work and in the workplace.
In Learn Alot more , psychologists are able to prescribe medications for their patients. They will refer clients in need of psychiatric treatment to psychiatrists. They are able to diagnose ADHD and may also assist clients suffering from other psychiatric issues that are often co-occurring with adult ADHD including bipolar disorder, depression and severe anxiety.
In general it's a good idea to search for an ADHD specialist within a larger 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. In addition some psychiatrists have an approach that is family-oriented and are willing to see children and adult members of the same family.