Doctors That Treat ADHD in Adults
If you have ADHD, your doctor will likely recommend you to a mental health specialist. The two primary kinds of specialists who treat ADHD are psychologists and psychiatrists. Psychologists can prescribe medications.
Your consultant may talk to coworkers as well as teachers, supervisors and coworkers to learn about your work or school performance problems. They might also inquire about your family history and use psychological testing.
Psychiatrists
Some psychiatrists have experience treating adults suffering from ADHD. However it is advisable to consult a specialist. If your local mental health clinics or community centers offer referral services, then they may have the names of specialists in your region. You can also search online or ask friends for recommendations. Check if your insurance plan is recognized by the insurers.
A Psychiatrist is a doctor who is licensed to prescribe medications for a range of psychiatric conditions, including ADHD. They are trained in differential diagnosis, and can identify the cause of symptoms and suggest appropriate treatment. They also treat comorbid disorders, such as depression, severe anxiety bipolar disorder, aggressive disorders, which co-occur with ADHD.
Adult ADHD is handled by psychologists who concentrate on the psychological aspects of the condition. They assist patients in coping with symptoms through talk therapy. This can be cognitive behavioral therapy or psychodynamic therapy. They may not be able to prescribe medications however they can work with an ADHD Psychiatrist or medical doctor to oversee a patient's complete treatment plan. They can teach patients how to improve their daily functioning. This includes organizing techniques and healthy habits that are related to eating habits, exercise and sleep/wake schedules, or even strategies for organizing.
Licensed Mental Health counselors or Professional Counselors are mental health professionals with an advanced degree that provide different kinds of therapy. LMHCs and LPCs are certified to conduct initial assessments, and can refer clients for a more in-depth assessment with a psychologist, or psychiatrist. These therapists can also provide support groups or individual therapy for particular needs.
A psychiatrist can assist people with ADHD who are having difficulties in their relationships. They can learn how to improve communication skills and resolve conflicts. Some psychiatrists provide family or marriage therapy. Others will collaborate with a coach, or therapist who is specifically trained in working with ADHD patients to ensure their patients receive comprehensive behavioral support along with their medication.
If you are looking for a doctor that treats adults with ADHD take into consideration the specific circumstances and goals of your life. Make a list with your symptoms and the issues you would like to address, then find an expert who has experience in these areas.
Family Physicians
Family doctors are the most frequent healthcare professionals who treat ADHD in adults. They will ask you about your symptoms, issues at work, school, or in relationships. They'll also ask about your medical history and examine any evidence from your childhood like report cards. They can assist you in managing ADHD by providing tools, accommodations or adjustments that will enable you to reach and excel as people with 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 shortage or imbalance in neurotransmitters. These are the chemicals that are responsible for allowing various parts of your body to function. These doctors may prescribe medication to restore the balance of neurotransmitters. These drugs include stimulants, such as amphetamines and the methylphenidate. They also include non-stimulants such as atomoxetine and bupropion. While they can be beneficial, most people with ADHD benefit more from psychotherapy or lifestyle changes.
Symptoms of ADHD, especially inattention and impulsivity, can result in stress. They also make people more susceptible of depression or anxiety and make them more prone to self-medicating using alcohol or drugs which can exacerbate their ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD often must be more efficient in meeting their goals at work and home which can trigger feelings of shame or guilt. This can lead to strained relationships with family and friends.
There is no cure for ADHD but treatment can help you to be successful at work and home. It could even assist you in turning some of your ADHD symptoms into advantages, such as being highly creative or having a strong memory.
Finding a doctor who can understand your symptoms can be difficult but you must find a doctor who can help manage the symptoms. It's also important to find a support group to get the help you need. The more you learn about your symptoms and the best way to manage them, the better you'll be able to deal with life's challenges. You'll be more likely to enjoy positive relationships with your family, friends, and co-workers.
Neurologists
Many people with ADHD do not get diagnosed until adulthood, and some never find out they have the condition in the first place. This can happen for many reasons. For instance, their symptoms may have been ignored during their childhood because parents or teachers did not notice them or provided them with the supportive environment they needed to thrive despite their issues. The co-morbidity of other illnesses such as sleep disorders or depression can be similar to the symptoms of ADHD which makes it difficult to differentiate one from the other.
It's crucial to select the right healthcare professional with experience in diagnosing and treating ADHD among adults. A neurology specialist can offer thorough ADHD assessments and testing to evaluate the cognitive capacity of the patient as well as medical history, psychosocial context and other variables.
When selecting a neurologist consult your primary care doctor for referrals or check with local associations for neurology to verify credentials. You should also ensure that your doctor has board certification and experience treating adults with ADHD. Select a neurologist who communicates clearly and gives you details about the treatment options available to you.
A neurology specialist can also examine for other disorders that can coexist with ADHD. This includes sleeping disorders and learning disabilities. They can use electroencephalogram (EEG) tests to determine if the brain activity of a person is normal or if they suffer from a seizure disorder or other neurological issue that needs to be addressed in order to increase the effectiveness of their ADHD treatment.
A neuroscientist can also conduct psychotherapy to help people with ADHD cope with their difficulties and build self-confidence. They can help teach time management strategies, help plan tasks and keep organized. They can also help individuals learn to accept frustration and address their anger and improve their interpersonal skills. They can also help address the negative self-talk that develops over the course of dealing with ADHD.
Psychologists
ADHD can be treated. The most effective treatment options are usually an amalgamation of medication, skill training, and psychotherapy. It is important to choose the right doctor for you. It's best to start by talking with your primary medical doctor or family doctor who can help you begin on the right track. In addition, many people have found it helpful to seek advice from a counselor, therapist, or coach.
When searching for adhd in adults symptoms and treatment , make sure to speak with various potential providers. Create a list of symptoms and goals you want to address in therapy, and ask prospective specialists about their treatment approach. You can also inquire about their qualifications and education, as well as whether they have experience treating adults with ADHD.
Many psychologists are trained in the diagnosis and treatment of adult ADHD. They can employ various psychotherapy methods, including cognitive psychotherapy and interpersonal therapy. They may also use meditation and relaxation techniques to enhance the capacity of the client to manage their own emotions and deal with the symptoms. These strategies are especially helpful for those who suffer from low self-esteem, negative thoughts and self-criticism.
Psychologists who specialize in adult ADHD are often more sensitive to the unique issues of adult ADHD than other mental health professionals. In addition, they may be more knowledgeable about how ADHD affects relationships as well as work performance.
In some states psychologists can prescribe medication to their patients. However, they usually refer patients who require psychotherapeutic treatment to psychiatrists. Psychiatrists can diagnose ADHD and may also assist clients with other psychiatric conditions that are often co-occurring with adult ADHD like bipolar disorder, depression and severe anxiety.
In general it's a good idea to search for an ADHD specialist within a larger medical practice. This gives you the convenience of having a psychologist, psychiatrist, or counselor all in one location and makes it easier to exchange information and inform them about each other's care. Some psychiatrists are family-oriented, and will treat children as well as adults within the same family.