Doctors That Treat ADHD in Adults
If you are diagnosed with adult ADHD, you will likely be recommended to an expert in mental health by your physician. The two primary kinds of specialists who treat ADHD are psychiatrists and psychologists. psychiatrists can prescribe medication.
Your psychologist may speak with your supervisors or coworkers, as also your teachers to find out about any issues you're experiencing at work or in school. They could also inquire about your family history and may use psychological tests.
Psychiatrists
Some psychiatrists have experience treating adults with ADHD. However it is advisable to consult with 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 also search online or ask your friends for suggestions. Verify that your insurance plan is accepted by the providers.
A Psychiatrist, or psychiatrist is a licensed physician who can prescribe medication to treat a range of psychiatric disorders including ADHD. Psychiatrists are trained to make differential diagnosis, and are able to identify the cause of symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment. They also treat comorbid disorders, such as depression or severe anxiety bipolar disorders, as well as aggressive disorders that occur in conjunction with ADHD.
Adult ADHD is managed by psychologists who focus on the psychological aspect of the disorder. They help patients cope with symptoms through talk therapy. This could be cognitive behavioral therapy or psychodynamic therapy. They might not be able to prescribe medications however they can work with an ADHD physician or psychiatrist to oversee a patient's complete treatment plan. They can teach patients how to improve their daily functioning. This can include organizing techniques and healthy habits that are related to eating, exercise, and schedules for sleep and wake, or organizational techniques.
Licensed Mental Health Counselors or Professional Counselors (LMHC, LPC) are mental health professionals with an advanced degree and offer various kinds of talk therapy. LMHCs or LPCs can conduct initial assessments and refer clients to a psychologist or psychiatrist for a more detailed evaluation. Therapists are also able to offer support sessions and individual therapy for particular needs.
Many people with ADHD have issues in their relationships. A psychiatrist can help them develop skills to improve communication and resolve conflicts. Some psychiatrists will offer marriage or family therapy. Others will collaborate with a coach or specialist therapist who has been specifically trained to work with ADHD patients to ensure their patients receive the best possible behavioral treatment along with their medication.
Consider your unique life circumstances and goals when looking for a doctor who can treat adult ADHD. Make a list of your symptoms and issues you wish to address and then find a practitioner who has expertise in these areas.
Family Physicians
Adults suffering from ADHD are typically treated by family physicians. They will 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 the records from your childhood like report cards. They can also help you manage your ADHD by recommending adjustments, tools, or other changes that make it possible to achieve and succeed like people who don't have ADHD. These accommodations can be like a step stool, which lets someone who is smaller to achieve greater goals.
Many doctors believe that ADHD is caused due to a shortage or imbalance in neurotransmitters. These are chemicals that are responsible for allowing different organs of your body to function. These doctors may prescribe medication to restore the balance of neurotransmitters. These medications include stimulants like amphetamines, methylphenidate and bupropion, and non-stimulants like atomoxetine. Although they can be beneficial for some, the majority of people with ADHD benefit more from psychotherapy or lifestyle modifications.
Symptoms of ADHD, especially inattention and impulsivity, can cause stress. They can also increase the likelihood 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 required to work harder at home and at work to meet their goals and this can cause them to feel ashamed or guilt. This can lead to tensions between family members and friends.
ADHD isn't curable, but the right treatment can help you achieve success in your work and at home. It can even help you turn some of your ADHD symptoms into positives like being creative or having a strong memory.
Finding a doctor who understands the symptoms you are experiencing can be challenging however, you must locate a doctor who can assist you to manage these symptoms. It's also important to join a support group to get the help you require. 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 enjoy positive relationships with family members, coworkers and friends.
Neurologists
Some people suffering from ADHD are not diagnosed until they reach adulthood. Others never learn that they suffer from ADHD. This can happen for many reasons. For instance, their symptoms could be overlooked in their early years because teachers or parents didn't recognize them or provide them with the supportive environment they needed to flourish despite their symptoms. untreated adhd in female adults symptoms with other illnesses, like sleeping disorders or depression can mimic the ADHD symptoms, making it hard to differentiate between the two.
It's 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 evaluate a patient's cognitive functioning as well as medical history and psychosocial context.
When choosing a neurologist, ask your primary care physician for referrals or check with local neurology associations to verify credentials. It is important to ensure that your neurologist has board certification and experience treating adult ADHD. Select a neurologist who communicates clearly and offers details on the treatment options available.
A specialist in neurology can also assess for comorbid conditions that frequently occur alongside ADHD, such as learning disabilities and sleep disorders. They can employ electroencephalograms (EEG) to determine if a person has normal brain activity or if there's seizures, or other neurological issue, that must be dealt with to improve the effectiveness of their ADHD medication.
A neurologist may also provide psychotherapy to help those suffering from ADHD overcome their challenges and build a positive self-image. For instance, they could teach strategies to manage time, plan tasks, and keep things in order. They can help people learn to tolerate frustration and anger and also improve their relationships. They can also address the negative self-talk developed over years of dealing with ADHD.
Psychologists
ADHD is treatable, and the most effective treatments often require a combination of medication as well as skills training and psychotherapy. However, it's important to find the right professional for you. You can start by consulting your primary health care provider or family physician, who will assist you in starting on the right path. Many have also discovered it beneficial to seek out help from an therapist, coach or counselor.
Find a variety of potential providers when searching for an adult ADHD expert. Create a list of symptoms and goals you want to concentrate on in therapy, and ask prospective specialists about their treatment approach. You can also ask about their qualifications and education, as well as whether they have prior experience treating adults suffering from ADHD.
Many psychologists are certified in the diagnosis and treatment of adults with ADHD. They can employ a variety of psychotherapy techniques that include cognitive psychotherapy and interpersonal therapy. They may also use mindfulness and relaxation techniques to enhance a client's capacity to self-regulate and cope with their symptoms. These techniques can be especially helpful for adults who have difficulties with self-esteem, negative self talk, and self-criticism.
Adult ADHD is a unique problem that is more difficult to manage than other mental health issues. They may be more knowledgeable about the way ADHD affects work and relationships.
In certain states, psychologists are able to prescribe medications for their patients. doctors that treat adhd in adults will refer clients who require psychiatric treatment to psychiatrists. The psychiatrists can diagnose ADHD and other psychiatric disorders commonly associated with adult ADHD. These include bipolar disorder, depression and severe anxiety.
It's best to look for an ADHD specialist in an established medical practice. It's more convenient to have a psychiatrist, therapist or counselor at the same location. It also makes it easier to communicate and exchange information with them. Additionally, some psychiatrists have an approach that is family-oriented and are willing to treat children as well as adults who are part of the same family.