Doctors That Treat ADHD in Adults
If you have adult ADHD, your doctor may refer you to a mental health professional. The two main kinds of specialists who treat ADHD are psychiatrists and psychologists. Psychiatrists are able to prescribe medication.
Your consultant may talk to coworkers as well as teachers, supervisors and coworkers to find out about your school or work problems. They might also inquire about your family history and conduct psychological tests.
Psychiatrists
Certain psychiatrists have experience in treating adults suffering from ADHD. However, it is best to consult with a specialist. If your local mental health clinics or community centres offer referral services, they may have the names of specialists in your local area. You can also look online or ask friends for suggestions. Check if your insurance plan is accepted by the providers.
A Psychiatrist is a doctor who is licensed to prescribe medications for a range of mental health conditions such as ADHD. Psychiatrists usually have training in differential diagnosis and are able to identify the root cause of your symptoms and recommend the best treatment. They also treat comorbid disorders, such as anxiety disorders or depression bipolar disorders, as well as aggressive disorders that are co-occurring with ADHD.
adhd symptoms in adults treatment is managed by psychologists who focus on the psychological aspect of the disorder. They aid patients in dealing with symptoms through talk therapy. This can include cognitive behavioral therapy or a psychodynamic therapy. They might not be able prescribe medication however they can work with an ADHD Psychiatrist or medical doctor to oversee a patient's complete treatment plan. They can help patients develop strategies to improve their daily functioning, such as organizational techniques or healthy habits related to exercise, diet and sleep/wake routines.
Licensed Mental Health Counselors or Professional Counselors are mental health professionals with an advanced degree that provide different kinds of therapy. LMHCs or LPCs can conduct initial assessments and refer clients to a psychiatrist or psychologist for a more detailed evaluation. These therapists can also offer support sessions and individual therapy to address particular needs.
Many people with ADHD encounter difficulties in their relationships, and a psychiatrist can assist them in developing skills to improve communication and solve conflicts. Some psychiatrists will offer marriage or family therapy. Others may work with a coach or therapy therapist who is trained in working with ADHD patients to ensure their patients receive a comprehensive treatment plan in addition to their medication.
When seeking a doctor who treats adult ADHD, consider the unique circumstances and goals you have set for your life. Make an inventory of your symptoms and the issues you want to tackle and then search for a practitioner who has experience in those areas.
Family Physicians
Family physicians are the most common healthcare providers who treat ADHD in adults. They will ask you about your symptoms, issues at work, school, or in relationships. They'll also inquire about your medical history and may also look over documents from your childhood, such as report cards. They can help you manage ADHD by suggesting tools, accommodations or changes that will allow you to achieve and succeed as people without ADHD. These accommodations can be similar to the step stool which lets someone who is smaller to achieve greater goals.
Many doctors believe that ADHD is caused by a deficiency or imbalance in neurotransmitters, chemicals found in the brain that instruct various parts of the body to function. This is why doctors may prescribe medications to restore the proper balance of neurotransmitters. These medications include stimulants like amphetamines and methylphenidate, and non-stimulants, like atomoxetine or bupropion. They can be helpful however most people suffering from ADHD prefer psychotherapy or lifestyle adjustments.
Symptoms of ADHD including inattention and impulsivity, may result in stress. They also put people at risk of anxiety or depression and lead them to self-medicating with alcohol or drugs which can exacerbate their ADHD symptoms. People who suffer from ADHD are often required to work more at home and at work to meet expectations and this can cause them to feel ashamed or guilt. This can lead to difficult relationships with family and friends.
ADHD is not cureable, but the correct treatment can help you succeed at work and at home. It can help you turn ADHD symptoms into advantages like being more innovative or having a great memory.
Finding a doctor who understands your symptoms can be a challenge however, you must find a doctor who can help manage them. It's also crucial to find a support group so that you can receive the assistance you require. The more you learn about your symptoms and how to deal with them, the better you'll be at handling the challenges of life. You'll be more likely to enjoy positive relationships with your family, friends and co-workers.
Neurologists
Some people suffering from ADHD are not diagnosed until they reach the age of adulthood. Others never learn that they suffer from ADHD. This can be for many reasons. The symptoms may have been ignored by parents or teachers in their early years or they may not have received the assistance needed to thrive. Also, the multi-factorial nature of other disorders such as sleep disorders or depression can be similar to the symptoms of ADHD and make it difficult to distinguish one from the other.
It's important to choose a healthcare professional that is experienced in diagnosing and treating ADHD in adults. A specialist in neurology can provide thorough ADHD assessments and testing to assess the cognitive capacity of the patient and psychosocial history, medical history and other aspects.
When selecting a neurologist consult your primary doctor for referrals or check with local associations of neurologists to verify credentials. You should also ensure that your neurologist is the board certification and has experience treating adults with ADHD. Choose a neurologist that communicates clearly and offers information about your treatment options.
A specialist in neurology will also be able to look for other conditions that are often associated with ADHD. These include learning disabilities and sleeping disorders. They can use electroencephalogram (EEG) tests to determine if a person's brain activity is normal, or if they may have a seizure disorder or another neurological issue that should be addressed to maximize the effectiveness of their ADHD medication.
A neurologist can also provide psychotherapy to help those suffering from ADHD overcome their challenges and develop a positive self-perception. For instance, they could teach strategies for managing time, plan tasks, and keep things in order. They can also assist individuals to learn to tolerate frustration, address their anger, and improve their relationship skills. In addition, they are able to address negative self-talk that has developed as a result of years of struggling with ADHD.
Psychologists
ADHD is treatable and the most effective treatments typically require a combination of medication, skills training, and psychotherapy. It is important to find the right professional for you. The best place to start is with a primary care physician or family physician who can help you get started on the path to treatment. Many have discovered that it is beneficial to seek help from a therapist, coach, or counselor.
Interview several potential providers when searching for an adult ADHD expert. Make a list of symptoms and goals you wish to focus on during therapy, and then ask prospective specialists about their treatment approach. You could also inquire about their training, education and expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD.
Many psychologists are certified in the diagnosis and treatment adult ADHD. They can employ a variety of psychotherapy techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy and inter-personal therapy. They may also employ relaxation and mindfulness techniques to increase the ability of the client to self-regulate and cope with symptoms. These strategies are especially beneficial for those who suffer from low self-esteem, negative thinking, and self-criticism.
Adult ADHD is a unique issue that can be more difficult to manage than other mental health problems. They may also be more familiar with the way ADHD affects relationships and work.
In some states, psychologists are able to prescribe medication to their patients. However, they will usually refer patients who require psychotherapeutic treatment to psychiatrists. Psychiatrists are able to diagnose ADHD and other psychiatric disorders that are commonly associated with adult ADHD. These include bipolar disorder, depression, and severe anxiety.
It's best to look for an ADHD specialist in a larger medical practice. This gives you the convenience of having a psychologist, psychiatrist or counselor in one place and makes it easier to share information and communicate with them about each other's care. Some psychiatrists are family-oriented, and will see children as well as adults in the same family.