Doctors That Treat ADHD in Adults
If you're diagnosed with adult ADHD You will most likely be recommended to a mental health professional by your physician. Psychiatrists and psychologists are the two primary kinds of specialists who treat ADHD. psychiatrists can prescribe medication.
Your psychologist may speak with your supervisors or coworkers as also your teachers, to learn about any issues you're having at work or in school. They might also inquire about your family history, and may use psychological tests.
Psychiatrists
Certain psychiatrists have experience in treating adults suffering from ADHD. However it is recommended to consult 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 ask your friends or browse the internet for recommendations. Verify that your insurance plan is accepted by the insurance companies.
A psychiatrist, also known as a psychiatrist is a licensed physician who can prescribe medication to treat a range of psychiatric disorders, including ADHD. They typically have specialized training in differential diagnosis. They are able to identify the cause of your symptoms and suggest the best treatment. They can also treat co-occurring conditions, such as anxiety or depression bipolar disorders, as well as aggressive disorders that co-occur along with ADHD.
Adult ADHD is treated by psychologists who focus on the psychological aspect of the disorder. They assist patients in coping with symptoms through talk therapy. This can include cognitive behavioral therapy or a psychodynamic therapy. They may not be able to prescribe medication but they can collaborate with an ADHD physician or psychiatrist to manage a patient's complete treatment plan. They can teach patients how to improve their daily functioning. This includes organizing techniques such as healthy habits, eating habits, 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 different types of talk therapy. LMHCs and LPCs are able to conduct initial assessments and can refer clients for a more in-depth assessment with a psychologist, or psychiatrist. Therapists are also able to offer support sessions and individual therapy for specific requirements.
Many people with ADHD experience challenges in their relationships. A psychiatrist can help them develop skills to improve communication and solve conflicts. Some psychiatrists offer family or marriage counseling. Some psychiatrists will work with a coach, therapist or a therapist specifically trained to work with ADHD patients.
When seeking a doctor who treats adults with ADHD be sure to consider the unique circumstances and goals you're pursuing in your life. Create a list of your symptoms and concerns that you wish to address, and then search for an expert who has experience in these areas.
Family Physicians
Adults suffering from ADHD are usually treated by family physicians. They'll ask you about your symptoms, problems at school, work or in relationships. They'll also ask you about your medical history, and may also look over documents from your childhood, such as report cards. They can also help you manage your ADHD by recommending adjustments, tools or modifications that will allow you to achieve and succeed like people who do not have ADHD. Consider these accommodations as a step stool that allows a smaller person to achieve greater heights.
Many doctors believe that ADHD is caused by a deficiency or imbalance of neurotransmitters, chemical substances in the brain that allow different parts of the body to function. In the end, doctors may prescribe medications to restore the proper balance of neurotransmitters. These include stimulants like amphetamines, methylphenidate, and bupropion, as well non-stimulants like atomoxetine. They can be beneficial however, most people with ADHD prefer therapy or lifestyle changes.
Stress can be triggered by ADHD symptoms, particularly impulsivity and lack of attention. They can also increase the risk of depression and anxiety and make people more likely to self-medicate with alcohol or drugs. This can lead to worsening of ADHD symptoms. People who suffer from ADHD often must work harder to meet expectations at home and at work and this can cause feelings of guilt or shame. This can result in tensions between family members and friends.
There is no cure for ADHD however, treatment can help you to be successful both at work and at home. It can even help you turn some of your ADHD symptoms into advantages, such as being highly creative or having a good memory.
Finding a doctor and getting treated can be hard and stressful, but it's crucial to find a doctor that understands your symptoms and can assist you in managing these. It's also crucial to join a support group so that you can get the help you need. The more you learn about your symptoms and how to deal with them, the better you'll be able to handle life's challenges. You'll also be more likely to maintain positive relationships with your family, friends and co-workers.
Neurologists
Many people with ADHD do not get diagnosed until they reach adulthood and some don't find out they are suffering from the condition in the first place. This could be due to a variety of reasons. The symptoms may have been ignored by parents or teachers during their childhood or they might not have received the help needed to be successful. Or, the co-morbidity of other illnesses like sleep disorders or depression can mimic the symptoms of ADHD, making it difficult to differentiate one from the other.
It is essential to select a healthcare professional that is experienced in diagnosing and treating ADHD in adults. A neurology specialist can provide thorough ADHD assessments and testing to evaluate the patient's cognitive function as well as psychosocial context, medical history, and other factors.
Ask your primary physician for recommendations or check credentials with local neurology associations. It is also important to make sure your neurologist is board-certified and has experience in treating adult ADHD patients. Find a neurologist who communicates clearly and provides you with details about the treatment options available to you.
A specialist in neurology can also examine for other disorders that often coexist with ADHD. This includes learning disabilities and sleeping disorders. They can employ electroencephalograms (EEG) to determine if a person is experiencing normal brain activity or if there is a seizure disorder, or a different neurological issue that needs to treated to increase the effectiveness of their ADHD treatment.
A neurologist can also provide psychotherapy to help people suffering from ADHD overcome their issues and develop a positive self-image. For instance, they can teach strategies for managing time, plan tasks, and remain organized. They can assist people in learning to handle anger and frustration and also improve their relationships. They can also address the negative self-talk that develops over the course of dealing with ADHD.
Psychologists
ADHD is treatable, and the most effective treatments usually require a combination of medication, skills training, and psychotherapy. It is crucial to choose the right specialist. You can start by consulting your primary health care provider or family physician, who will help you get started on the right path. Many have found it beneficial to seek help from coaches, therapists, or counselor.
Find a variety of potential providers when searching for an adult ADHD expert. 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, and if they have prior experience treating adults suffering from ADHD.
A lot of psychologists are trained in the diagnosis and treatment of adult ADHD. They may use a variety of psychotherapy methods such as cognitive behavior therapy and interpersonal therapy. They may also employ relaxation and mindfulness techniques to enhance the capacity of the client to manage their own emotions and deal with the symptoms. These techniques can be especially beneficial for adults who experience 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 could also be more familiar with the ways ADHD affects relationships at work and in the workplace.
In some states, psychologists may prescribe medications to their patients. However, they will usually refer patients who require psychotherapeutic intervention to psychiatrists. They are able to diagnose ADHD and can also help clients suffering from other psychiatric issues that are often co-occurring with adult ADHD, such as bipolar disorder, depression and severe anxiety.
It's best to look for an ADHD specialist in a larger medical practice. This can provide the convenience of having a psychologist, psychiatrist or counselor all in one location and makes it easier to communicate with them about their respective care. Some psychiatrists are family-oriented, and will see children as well as adults in the same family.