Doctors That Treat ADHD in Adults
If you're diagnosed with adult ADHD You are likely to be referred to an expert in mental health by your physician. Psychiatrists and psychologists are the two main types of professionals who treat ADHD. Psychiatrists are able to prescribe medication.
Your specialist may interview your co-workers or supervisors, as also your teachers, to learn about any problems you are experiencing at work or in school. They could also inquire about your family history and conduct psychological testing.
Psychiatrists
Some psychiatrists are experienced in treating adults suffering from ADHD however it is best to consult an expert. If your local mental health clinics or community centers offer referral services, they might have lists of specialists in the region. You can also look online or ask friends 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 prescribes medication to treat a variety psychiatric disorders, such as ADHD. Psychiatrists are trained in differential diagnosis, and can determine the cause of symptoms and suggest appropriate treatment. They can also treat comorbid disorders, like depression, anxiety that is severe, bipolar disorder, or aggressive disorders, that co-occur with ADHD.
Psychologists who treat adults with ADHD focus on the psychological aspect of the condition and try to assist patients in coping with their symptoms through talk therapy, often psychodynamic or cognitive behavioral therapy. They may not be able prescribe medication, but they can collaborate with an ADHD medical doctor or psychiatrist to manage the patient's entire treatment plan. They can help patients learn how to improve their daily functioning. This could include organizing strategies, healthy habits related eating, exercise, and sleep/wake schedules, or even methods for organizing.
Licensed Mental Health Counselors or Professional Counselors (LMHC, LPC) are mental health professionals with an advanced degree and offer various types of therapy. LMHCs or LPCs can conduct initial assessments and recommend clients to a psychologist or psychiatrist for a more detailed evaluation. These therapists can also provide support sessions or individual therapy to meet specific needs.
A psychiatrist can aid those with ADHD who have issues with their relationships. They can learn how to improve communication skills and solve conflicts. Some psychiatrists offer family or marriage therapy. Others will work with a coach, or therapy therapist who is trained in working with ADHD patients to ensure their patients receive comprehensive behavioral support alongside their medication.
When looking for a doctor who treats adults with ADHD be sure to consider the unique circumstances and goals you're pursuing in your life. Make a list with your symptoms and issues that you want to address, then find an expert with expertise in these areas.
Family Physicians
Family physicians are the most common healthcare providers who treat ADHD in adults. They'll discuss your symptoms and problems with school, work or relationships. They'll also ask you about your medical history and they might also review the records from your childhood like report cards. They can help you manage ADHD by offering tools, accommodations, or adjustments that will allow you to achieve and excel as people with ADHD. These accommodations can be compared to an incline that allows someone who is shorter to achieve greater goals.
Many doctors believe that ADHD is caused by a deficiency or imbalance of neurotransmitters. chemicals in the brain that instruct various parts of the body to function. The doctors may prescribe medications to restore the balance of neurotransmitters. These include stimulants like amphetamines and methylphenidate as well as bupropion, as well as non-stimulants such as atomoxetine. Although they can be helpful for some, the majority of people with ADHD benefit more from lifestyle or psychotherapy.
Stress can be triggered by ADHD symptoms, particularly the lack of focus and impulsivity. They can also increase the risk of anxiety and depression and make people more likely to self-medicate with alcohol or other substances. This can actually worsen ADHD symptoms. People who suffer from ADHD are often forced to work more at home and at work to achieve their goals which can cause them to feel embarrassed or guilt. adult adhd diagnosis and treatment can cause strained relationships with family and friends.
There is no cure for ADHD however, treatment can make it easier to be successful at work and at home. It could even help you turn your ADHD symptoms into benefits for example, being creative or having a great memory.
Finding a doctor who can understand your symptoms can be difficult but you must find a doctor who can help manage these symptoms. It's also important to find a support group so that you can get the help you need. The more you know about your symptoms and the best way to manage them, you will be better equipped to face life's challenges. You'll also be more likely to have positive relationships with family members, friends and co-workers.
Neurologists
Many people suffering from ADHD don't get diagnosed until adulthood and some don't realize they have the condition in the first place. This could be due to a variety of reasons. For instance, their symptoms may have been ignored in their early years because parents or teachers didn't recognize them or provide them with the supportive environment that they needed to thrive despite their issues. Also, the co-morbidity of other illnesses such as sleep disorders or depression could be similar to the symptoms of ADHD, making it difficult to distinguish one from the other.
It's crucial to select the right healthcare professional with expertise in diagnosing and treating ADHD in adults. This includes neurology specialists who can perform comprehensive ADHD tests and assessments to evaluate a patient's cognitive functioning medical history, as well as psychosocial context.
When selecting a neurologist, consult your primary physician for recommendations or consult with local associations for neurology to confirm credentials. It is also important to ensure that your neurologist is board-certified and experienced in treating adult ADHD patients. Find a neurologist who communicates clearly and provides you with details on the treatment options available.
A neurology specialist can also look for comorbid disorders that often occur alongside ADHD, such as sleep disorders and learning disabilities. They can use electroencephalograms (EEG) to determine if a person has normal brain activity or if they have seizures, or other neurological issue, that must be dealt with to improve the effectiveness of their ADHD medication.
A neurologist can also offer psychotherapy to help those suffering from ADHD overcome their difficulties and develop a positive self-perception. They can teach time management strategies, help to plan out tasks and keep things in order. They can also assist individuals to learn to accept frustration and deal with anger and develop their interpersonal skills. In addition, they are able to address negative self-talk that has been developed due to years of struggling with ADHD.
Psychologists
ADHD can be treated. The most effective treatments are often an amalgamation of medication, skill training and psychotherapy. However, it's important to choose the right doctor for you. A good place to start is with a primary care physician or family physician, who can help you get started on the treatment path. In addition, many people have found it beneficial to seek advice from a therapist, counselor or coach.
When searching for an adult ADHD specialist, make sure to interview various potential providers. Make a list of symptoms and goals you want to address in therapy, and inquire of prospective specialists about their approach to treatment. You may also inquire about their education, training and experiences in treating adults with ADHD.
A lot of psychologists are certified in the diagnosis and treatment of adult ADHD. They may use a range of psychotherapy methods including cognitive behavior therapy and inter-personal therapy. They may also use relaxation and mindfulness techniques to enhance the capacity of the client to manage their own emotions and cope with symptoms. These techniques are particularly beneficial for those who suffer from low self-esteem, negative thoughts, and self-criticism.
Adult ADHD is a distinct problem that is more difficult to manage than other mental health issues. They could also be more familiar with the way ADHD affects relationships at work and in the workplace.
In some states psychologists can prescribe medication to their patients. However, they typically refer patients who require psychotherapeutic intervention to psychiatrists. Psychiatrists are able to diagnose ADHD as well as other disorders of the psyche that are typically associated with adult ADHD. These include depression, bipolar disorder and severe anxiety.
It is best to find an ADHD specialist within an established medical practice. This can provide the convenience of having a psychiatrist, psychologist or counselor in one location and can make it easier to communicate with the other about each other's treatment. Some psychiatrists are family-oriented and will see children as well as adults within the same household.