Doctors That Treat ADHD in Adults
If you are diagnosed with adult ADHD, you will likely be referred to a mental health professional by your doctor. The two main types of specialists that treat ADHD are psychologists and psychiatrists. Psychologists are able to prescribe medication.
Your doctor may speak with coworkers, supervisors and teachers to get a better understanding of your work or school performance issues. They may also ask about your family history and conduct psychological testing.
Psychiatrists
Certain psychiatrists have experience in treating adults with ADHD. However it is recommended to consult a specialist. If your local mental health clinics or community centers offer referral services, they may have lists of specialists in the area. You can also search 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 medications to treat a variety of psychiatric disorders, including ADHD. Psychiatrists are trained to make the field of differential diagnosis and can determine the root of the problem 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 adults with ADHD concentrate on the psychological aspects of the condition and work to assist patients in coping with their symptoms by using talk therapy, which is often called cognitive behavioral therapy or psychodynamic therapy. They might not be able prescribe medication, but they can coordinate with an ADHD physician or psychiatrist to oversee a patient's entire treatment plan. They can teach patients how to improve their daily functioning. This could include organizing strategies such as healthy habits, diet, exercise and schedules for sleep/wake, or organizational techniques.
Licensed Mental Health counselors or Professional Counselors are mental health professionals with an advanced degree that provide various types of talk therapy. LMHCs or LPCs can conduct initial assessments and refer clients to a psychiatrist or psychologist to conduct a more thorough assessment. These therapists are also able to offer support sessions or individual therapy to meet specific needs.
Many people who suffer from ADHD experience challenges in their relationships. A psychiatrist can assist them in developing abilities to improve communication and solve conflicts. Some psychiatrists provide marriage or family therapy. Some psychiatrists work with a therapist, coach or a therapist who is specifically trained to assist ADHD patients.
If you are looking for a doctor that treats adults with ADHD take into consideration the specific circumstances and goals you have set for your life. Make a list with your symptoms and issues that you would like to address, and then search for a practitioner with expertise in these areas.
Family Physicians
Adults suffering from ADHD are usually treated by family doctors. They'll ask you about your symptoms, issues at work, school or in relationships. They'll also ask you about your medical history and they may look at the records from your childhood like report cards. They can assist you with managing ADHD by providing tools, accommodations or adjustments that will enable you to reach and succeed as people without ADHD. These accommodations can be similar to an incline, which helps those who are smaller to reach higher goals.
Many doctors believe that ADHD is caused by a shortage or imbalance of neurotransmitters. chemicals found in the brain that signal different organs of the body to function. The doctors may prescribe medications to restore the balance of neurotransmitters. effects of untreated adhd in adults include stimulants like amphetamines and methylphenidate, as well as non-stimulants, like atomoxetine or bupropion. While they can be beneficial for some, the majority of people with ADHD benefit more from lifestyle or psychotherapy.
Stress can be caused by ADHD symptoms, including impulsivity and lack of attention. They also increase the risk of anxiety and depression and cause people to be more likely to self-medicate with alcohol or other substances. This can actually worsen ADHD symptoms. People with ADHD often must be more efficient in meeting their goals at work and home which can trigger feelings of shame or guilt. This can cause 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 could even help you turn your ADHD symptoms into benefits like being creative or having a good memory.
Being diagnosed and 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. You should also join a support network to get the assistance you require. The more you know about your symptoms and how to manage them, the better prepared you'll be able to handle the challenges of life. You'll also be more likely to enjoy positive relationships with family members, friends and co-workers.
Neurologists
Some people suffering from ADHD are not diagnosed until they reach the age of adulthood. Others never learn that they have ADHD. This can be due to a variety of reasons. For instance, their symptoms could have been ignored in childhood because teachers or parents didn't recognize them or provide them with the support they needed to flourish despite their symptoms. Or, the multi-factorial nature of other disorders such as sleep disorders or depression could mimic the symptoms of ADHD and make it difficult to differentiate one from the other.
It's important to choose an expert in healthcare who is experienced in diagnosing and treating ADHD in adults. This includes neurology specialists who are able to conduct comprehensive ADHD tests and assessments to evaluate the cognitive function of a patient medical history, as well as psychosocial context.
Ask your primary care doctor for recommendations or verify credentials with local neurology associations. It is also important to make sure your neurologist is board-certified and experienced in treating adult ADHD patients. Find a neurologist who communicates clearly and offers information about your treatment options.
A specialist in neurology can also assess for comorbid disorders that often occur alongside ADHD for example, sleep disorders and learning disabilities. They can use electroencephalograms (EEG) to determine if a person has normal brain activity or if there's seizures, or other neurological issue, which needs to be dealt with to improve the effectiveness of their ADHD treatment.
A neurologist can also conduct psychotherapy to help adults who have ADHD manage their issues and improve their self-esteem. For instance, they could teach strategies for managing time, plan work tasks, and stay organized. They can help people learn to tolerate frustration and anger and also improve their relationships. In addition, they are able to address negative self-talk that has developed as a result of years of struggle with ADHD.
Psychologists
ADHD is treatable, and the most effective treatments often involve a combination of medications as well as skills training and psychotherapy. It is essential to select the right doctor. Start by speaking with your primary medical doctor or family doctor to help you get started on the right track. Many have discovered that it is beneficial to seek help from an therapist, coach or counselor.
When searching for an adult ADHD specialist, be sure to talk with various potential providers. Ask potential specialists how they approach treatment. Make a list of the symptoms you'd like to focus on during therapy. You can also ask about their qualifications and education, and if they have expertise in treating adults with ADHD.
Many psychologists are trained in the diagnosis and treatment of adults with ADHD. They can employ a variety of psychotherapy methods including cognitive behavior therapy and inter-personal therapy. They can also employ meditation and relaxation techniques to increase the ability of the client to self-regulate and deal with the symptoms. These techniques are particularly beneficial for adults who struggle with low self-esteem, negative thinking, and self-criticism.
Psychologists who specialize in adult ADHD are often more sensitive to the specific difficulties of adult ADHD than other mental health professionals. In addition, they might be more knowledgeable about how ADHD affects relationships and work performance.
In certain states, psychologists are able to prescribe medications to their patients. However, they will usually refer clients who need psychiatric intervention to psychiatrists. Psychiatrists can diagnose ADHD and other psychiatric disorders often associated with adult ADHD. They can diagnose bipolar disorder, depression and severe anxiety.
It is recommended to seek out an ADHD specialist within an established medical practice. It's more convenient to have a psychiatrist, therapist or counselor at the same place. It can also make it easier to communicate and share information with them. In addition, some psychiatrists have an approach that is family-oriented and are willing to see children and adult members of the same family.