Doctors That Treat ADHD in Adults
If you're diagnosed with adult ADHD then you are likely to be recommended to a mental health professional by your doctor. Psychologists and psychiatrists are the two main kinds of specialists who treat ADHD. 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 having at work or in school. They may also ask about your family history and conduct psychological testing.
Psychiatrists
Some psychiatrists have experience treating adults with ADHD. However it is recommended to consult a specialist. If your local mental health clinics or community centres provide referral services, they may have the names of specialists in your region. You can also look online or ask your friends for recommendations. If you have insurance make sure you know which insurance companies accept your plan.
A Psychiatrist or physician is someone who is licensed to prescribe medications for a variety of mental health conditions, including ADHD. Psychiatrists are trained to make differential diagnosis, and are able to identify the cause of symptoms and suggest appropriate treatment. They can also treat co-occurring disorders, including depression, severe anxiety bipolar disorder, or aggressive disorders that are co-occurring with ADHD.
Psychologists who treat adults with ADHD concentrate on the psychological aspect of the condition and try to help patients manage their symptoms by using talks therapy, usually psychodynamic or cognitive behavioral therapy. They might not be able to prescribe medication, but they are able to work with an ADHD psychiatrist or medical doctor to manage the patient's entire treatment plan. They can guide patients on how to improve their daily functioning. This can include organizing techniques such as healthy habits, eating habits, exercise and schedules for sleep/wake, or methods for organizing.
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 psychologist or psychiatrist for a more detailed evaluation. These therapists are also able to offer support sessions or individual therapy to meet particular requirements.
Many people who suffer from ADHD have issues in their relationships. A psychiatrist can assist them in developing abilities to improve communication and resolve conflicts. Some psychiatrists provide family or marriage counseling. Others will collaborate with a coach or specialist therapist who has been specifically trained in working with ADHD patients to ensure their patients receive a comprehensive treatment plan in addition to their medication.
Be aware of your unique circumstances and goals when looking for a doctor who can treat adult ADHD. Create a list of your symptoms and concerns that you wish to address, and then search for a practitioner with expertise in these areas.
Family Physicians
Family doctors are the most popular healthcare professionals who treat ADHD in adults. They'll discuss your symptoms and concerns with school, work or relationships. They'll also ask about your medical history and review any childhood records such as school reports. doctors that treat adhd in adults can also assist you to manage your ADHD by recommending adjustments, tools or modifications that will allow you to reach and achieve the same level as people who don't have ADHD. Consider these accommodations as a step stool that allows a person who is shorter to reach higher things.
Many doctors believe ADHD is due to a shortage or imbalance in neurotransmitters. These are the chemicals that allow different parts of your body to function. In the end, doctors may prescribe medications to restore the balance of neurotransmitters. These drugs include stimulants, like amphetamines and methylphenidate, as well as non-stimulants, like atomoxetine or bupropion. While they can be beneficial, most people with ADHD benefit more from psychotherapy or lifestyle modifications.
Symptoms of ADHD, especially inattention and impulsivity, can cause stress. They also increase the risk of depression and anxiety and increase the likelihood to self-medicate with alcohol or other substances. This can worsen ADHD symptoms. People who suffer from ADHD typically have to perform more to meet their obligations at home and at work and this can cause feelings of shame or guilt. This can cause tension between family members and friends.
There is no cure for ADHD, but treatment can make it easier to achieve success both at work and at home. It can help turn ADHD symptoms into positives, such as being highly creative or having a good memory.
Being diagnosed and treated can be difficult, but it's important to find a doctor who understands your symptoms and can help you manage these. It's also crucial to find a support organization to get the help you need. The more you understand about your symptoms and how to manage them, the better you'll be at handling the challenges of life. You'll be more likely to have positive relationships with your family, friends, and colleagues.
Neurologists
Many people suffering from ADHD aren't diagnosed until they reach adulthood and some don't find out they suffer from the condition at all. This can be due to many reasons. It is possible that symptoms were not noticed by parents or teachers in their early years or they might not have received the support needed to be successful. Also, the co-morbidity of other illnesses like depression or sleep disorders can be similar to the symptoms of ADHD which makes it difficult to distinguish one from the other.
It is crucial to select the right healthcare professional with expertise in diagnosing and treating ADHD among adults. This includes neurology specialists who can perform comprehensive ADHD tests and assessments to assess a patient's cognitive functioning medical history, as well as psychosocial context.
When choosing a neurologist, ask your primary care physician for recommendations or consult with local associations of neurologists to confirm credentials. You also want to ensure that your neurologist is board-certified and has experience in treating adult ADHD patients. Find a neurologist who communicates clearly and offers details about the treatment options available to you.
A neurology specialist can also assess for other conditions that are often associated with ADHD. These include learning disabilities and sleeping disorders. They can use electroencephalogram (EEG) tests to determine whether the brain activity of a patient is normal or if they suffer from a seizure disorder or another neurological issue that must be addressed to improve the effectiveness of their ADHD treatment.
A neuroscientist can also conduct psychotherapy to help adults with ADHD cope with their difficulties and improve their self-esteem. They can provide time management strategies, help to plan out tasks and keep things in order. They can help people learn to manage anger and frustration and also improve their relationships. Additionally, 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's important to choose the right specialist. The best place to begin is with a primary care doctor or family physician, who can get you started on the path to treatment. Additionally, many have found it helpful to seek help from a counselor, therapist, or coach.
Interview several potential providers when you are looking for an adult ADHD expert. Make a list of the symptoms and goals you want to focus on during therapy, and then ask prospective specialists about their approach to treatment. You may also inquire about their training, education and experience in treating adults with ADHD.
Many psychologists have specific training in the diagnosis and treatment of adult ADHD. They may use a variety of psychotherapy methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy and interpersonal therapy. They may also use meditation and relaxation techniques to enhance the capacity of the client to manage their own emotions and manage symptoms. These strategies are particularly beneficial for those who suffer from difficulty with self-esteem, negative self-talk and self-criticism.
Adult ADHD is a unique challenge that can be more difficult to manage than other mental health issues. They may also be more familiar with the ways ADHD affects relationships and work.
In some states, psychologists may prescribe medications to their patients. They can refer patients in need of psychiatric treatment to psychiatrists. Psychiatrists are able to diagnose ADHD as well as other disorders of the psyche that are typically associated with adult ADHD. They can diagnose bipolar disorder, depression, and severe anxiety.
It's best to look for an ADHD specialist within a larger medical practice. It's more convenient to have a therapist, psychiatrist or counselor at the same place. It can also make it easier to communicate and exchange information with them. Some psychiatrists are family-oriented and will see both children and adults in the same family.