Doctors That Treat ADHD in Adults
If you have adult ADHD, your doctor may 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 doctor may speak with coworkers as well as teachers, supervisors and coworkers to find out about your work or school performance issues. They might also inquire about your family history and conduct psychological tests.
Psychiatrists
Some psychiatrists are experienced in treating adults with ADHD However, it is recommended to seek out an expert. 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 ask your family or friends for recommendations or look online for recommendations. If you are insured look up which companies will accept your plan.
A psychiatrist, also known as a Psychiatrist is a licensed doctor who prescribes medication to treat a range of psychiatric disorders, such as ADHD. They are trained in differential diagnosis, and can determine the cause of symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment. They also treat comorbid disorders, such as depression, severe anxiety bipolar disorder, aggressive disorders, which co-occur with ADHD.
Psychologists who treat adult ADHD concentrate on the psychological aspects of the condition and work to assist patients in coping with their symptoms through talk therapy, which is often called psychodynamic or cognitive therapy. They might not be able to prescribe medications but they can collaborate with an ADHD Psychiatrist or medical doctor to oversee a patient's entire treatment plan. They can guide patients on how to improve their daily functioning. This includes organizing techniques and healthy habits that are related to eating, exercise, and sleep/wake schedules, or even organizational techniques.
Licensed Mental health counselors or Professional Counselors are mental health professionals with master's degrees who offer different types of therapy. what happens if adhd is left untreated in adults or LPCs can conduct initial assessments and refer clients to a psychiatrist or psychologist for a more comprehensive assessment. Therapists can also provide support sessions and individual therapy to address specific needs.
Many people who suffer from ADHD experience challenges in their relationships. A psychiatrist can help them develop skills to improve communication and resolve conflicts. Some psychiatrists offer family or marriage therapy. Others will work with a coach, or therapist who is 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 to treat adult ADHD. Make a list of your symptoms and issues you want to tackle, then look for an expert who has prior experience in these areas.
Family Physicians
Family doctors are the most popular healthcare providers who treat ADHD in adults. They'll ask you about your symptoms, issues at work, school or in relationships. They'll also inquire about your medical history, and they may look at records from childhood such as report cards. They can also help you manage your ADHD by suggesting accommodations, tools or changes that will allow you to achieve and succeed like those who don't suffer from ADHD. These adjustments can be like a step stool that lets someone who is smaller to achieve higher goals.
Many doctors believe ADHD is caused by a shortage or imbalance in neurotransmitters. These are chemicals that allow various parts of your body to function. This is why these doctors may prescribe medication to restore the proper balance of neurotransmitters. These medications include stimulants, such as amphetamines, methylphenidate, and non-stimulants, including atomoxetine and bupropion. Although they can be beneficial for some, the majority of people with ADHD benefit more from psychotherapy or lifestyle changes.
Stress can be triggered by ADHD symptoms, specifically inattention and impulsivity. They also increase the risk of anxiety and depression, and increase the likelihood to use alcohol or other substances. This can actually worsen ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD are often forced to work more at home and at work to meet their goals and this can cause them to feel embarrassed or guilt. This can lead to strained relationships between family members and friends.
There is no cure for ADHD but treatment can help you to succeed at work and home. It can also help you turn your ADHD symptoms into positives, such as being highly creative or having a great memory.
Finding a doctor who can understand your symptoms can be difficult but you must locate a doctor who can assist you to manage them. You should also find an organization that can provide the assistance you require. The more you are aware of your symptoms and the best methods to deal with them, you'll be better equipped to face the challenges of life. You'll also be more likely to maintain positive relationships with family, friends and co-workers.
Neurologists
Many people who suffer from ADHD don't get diagnosed until later in life and some don't discover they have the condition in the first place. This could be due to a variety of reasons. For instance, their symptoms may be overlooked in childhood because teachers or parents didn't recognize them or provide them with the environment they needed to thrive despite their ailments. The multi-factorial nature of other disorders like sleep disorders or depression could mimic the symptoms of ADHD and make it difficult to differentiate one from the other.
It is important to choose an expert in healthcare who has expertise in diagnosing and treating ADHD in adults. This includes neurology specialists who can conduct thorough ADHD tests and assessments to assess the patient's cognitive performance medical history, as well as psychosocial context.
Ask your primary care doctor for recommendations or check credentials with local associations for neurology. You should also ensure that your neurologist has expertise and board certification, as well as experience in treating adults with ADHD. Choose a neurologist who speaks clearly and provides you with details about the treatment options available to you.
A specialist in neurology can also assess for comorbid disorders that often are associated with ADHD like sleep disorders and learning disabilities. They can utilize electroencephalograms (EEG) to determine if someone has normal brain activity or if they have a seizure disorder, or other neurological issue, that must be dealt with to improve the effectiveness of their ADHD treatment.
A neurologist can also provide psychotherapy to help people with ADHD manage their issues and build self-confidence. For instance, they could teach strategies to manage time, plan tasks and remain organized. They can assist people in learning to tolerate frustration and anger and improve their relationships. Additionally, they can tackle negative self-talk which has been accumulated as a result of years of struggling with ADHD.
Psychologists
ADHD can be treated. The most effective treatments are typically an amalgamation of medication, skill training, and psychotherapy. It is crucial to choose the right doctor. The best place to begin is with a primary care doctor or family physician, who can help you begin on the treatment path. Many have discovered that it is beneficial to seek assistance from an therapist, coach or counselor.
Interview several potential providers when looking for an adult ADHD expert. Make a list of the symptoms and goals you wish to focus on in therapy, and inquire of potential specialists about their approach to treatment. You may also inquire about their training, education and experiences in treating adults with ADHD.
A lot of psychologists have training in the diagnosis and treatment of adult ADHD. They may use a variety of psychotherapy techniques that include cognitive psychotherapy and interpersonal therapy. They may also use meditation and relaxation techniques in order to improve the capacity of the client to manage their own emotions and cope with symptoms. These strategies are particularly beneficial for those who suffer from difficulties with self-esteem, negative self talk, and self-criticism.
Psychologists who specialize in adult ADHD are often more attentive to the particular issues of adult ADHD than other mental health professionals. They might also be more familiar with the way ADHD affects relationships and work.
In some states, psychologists may prescribe medication to their patients. They will refer patients who require psychiatric care to psychiatrists. They are able to diagnose ADHD and may also assist clients with other psychiatric conditions that commonly co-occur with adult ADHD including depression, bipolar disorder, and severe anxiety.
It is best to find an ADHD specialist in a larger medical practice. It's convenient to have a therapist, psychiatrist or counselor at the same location. It also makes it easier for you to communicate and exchange information with them. Some psychiatrists are family-oriented and will see both children and adults in the same family.