Doctors That Treat ADHD in Adults
If you have adult ADHD Your doctor may recommend you to a mental health professional. Psychologists and psychiatrists are the two major kinds of specialists who treat ADHD. Psychologists are able to prescribe medication.
Your psychologist may speak with your supervisors or coworkers as and your teachers, to learn about any issues you're experiencing at work or in school. They could also inquire about your family history, and may use psychological testing.
Psychiatrists
Some psychiatrists have experience with treating adults with ADHD. However it is advisable to seek out a specialist. If your local mental health clinics or community centers provide referral services, they might have lists of specialists in the region. You can ask your friends or look online for recommendations. If you are insured, check to see which companies will accept your plan.
A Psychiatrist or physician is someone who is licensed to prescribe medications for a range of psychiatric conditions, including ADHD. Psychiatrists typically have specialized training in differential diagnosis. They are able to determine the root of your symptoms and suggest the most appropriate treatment. They also treat comorbid disorders, like depression, anxiety that is severe bipolar disorder, or aggressive disorders that are co-occurring with ADHD.
Adult ADHD is managed by psychologists who focus on the psychological aspects of the disorder. They aid patients in dealing with symptoms through talk therapy. This can be cognitive behavioral therapy or psychodynamic therapy. They may not be able to prescribe medication, but they are able to work with an ADHD medical professional or psychiatrist to manage the patient's entire 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 habits, exercise and schedules for sleep and wake, or 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 talk therapy. LMHCs and LPCs are certified to conduct initial assessments and can refer clients for a deeper assessment with a psychologist, or psychiatrist. Therapists can also provide support sessions and individual therapy to address specific needs.
A psychiatrist can help people with ADHD who have issues with their relationships. They can learn how to improve their communication skills and solve conflicts. Some psychiatrists will offer family or marriage therapy. Others will work with a coach or therapy therapist who is 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 to treat adult ADHD. Make a list with your symptoms and the issues you wish to address, and then search for a practitioner with experience in these areas.
Family Physicians
Family doctors are the most frequent healthcare professionals who treat ADHD in adults. They'll ask about your symptoms, issues at school, work or in relationships. They'll also inquire about your medical history, and they might also review documents from your childhood, such as report cards. They can assist you with managing ADHD by suggesting tools, accommodations or changes that will allow you to achieve and succeed as people without ADHD. Think of these accommodations as a step-stool that allows a shorter person to achieve greater heights.
Many doctors believe ADHD is caused by an imbalance or lack of neurotransmitters. These are the chemicals that are responsible for allowing different organs of your body to function. As a result, these doctors may prescribe medication to restore the balance of neurotransmitters. These medications include stimulants such as amphetamines, methylphenidate, as well as non-stimulants, including atomoxetine and bupropion. While they can be beneficial but the majority of people suffering from ADHD benefit more from psychotherapy or lifestyle changes.
Symptoms of ADHD including inattention and impulsivity, may cause stress. They can also increase the risk of depression and anxiety and make people more likely to seek out self-medication with 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 expectations which can cause them to feel embarrassed or guilt. This can lead to difficult relationships with family and friends.
There is no cure for ADHD however, treatment can make it easier to achieve success at work and home. It can also help you turn your ADHD symptoms into benefits like being creative or having a great memory.
Getting diagnosed and treated can be hard, but it's important to find a doctor who understands your symptoms and can assist you in managing these. It's also essential to join a support group so that you can get the help you need. The more you are aware of your symptoms and the best methods to deal with them, you will be better equipped to face the challenges of life. You'll also be more likely to enjoy positive relationships with family members, friends and co-workers.
Neurologists
Some people with ADHD are not diagnosed until they reach adulthood. Others never learn that they suffer from ADHD. This can be due to many reasons. For instance, their symptoms may have been overlooked in their early years because parents or teachers didn't notice them or provide them with the environment they needed to flourish despite their issues. Also, the comorbidity of other conditions such as depression or sleep disorders can mimic the symptoms of ADHD and make it difficult to distinguish one from the other.
It's crucial to select a healthcare professional who has expertise in diagnosing and treating ADHD among adults. A neurology specialist can offer thorough ADHD assessments and testing to evaluate the patient's cognitive abilities and psychosocial history, medical history and other aspects.
Ask your primary physician for recommendations or verify credentials with local associations for neurology. You should also ensure that your neurologist is the board certification and has experience treating adult ADHD. Find a neurologist who communicates clearly and provides you with details about the treatment options available to you.
A neurology specialist will also be able to examine for other disorders that often coexist with ADHD. This includes learning disabilities and sleeping disorders. They can employ electroencephalograms (EEG) to determine if someone has normal brain activity or if they have seizures, or another neurological issue that must be dealt with to improve the effectiveness of their ADHD treatment.
A neurologist can also provide psychotherapy to help adults with ADHD cope with their difficulties and improve their self-esteem. For example, they can teach strategies for managing time, plan tasks and remain organized. They can also assist individuals to learn to tolerate frustration and address their anger and develop their interpersonal skills. They can also address the negative self-talk that develops over the course of dealing with ADHD.
Psychologists
ADHD is treatable, and the most effective treatments often involve a combination of medications, skills training, and psychotherapy. adhd treatment in adults is important to find the right specialist for you. You can start by consulting your primary medical doctor or family doctor, who will help you get started on the right track. In addition, many people have found it helpful to seek advice from a counselor, therapist or coach.
Interview several potential providers when you are looking for an adult ADHD expert. Make 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 training, education and experience in treating adults with ADHD.
Many psychologists have specific training in the diagnosis and treatment of adults with ADHD. They may use a variety of psychotherapy methods such as cognitive psychotherapy and interpersonal therapy. They may also use meditation and relaxation techniques to increase the client's ability self-regulate, and manage symptoms. These strategies are particularly helpful for adults who have issues with self-esteem, negative self talk, and self-criticism.
Adult ADHD is a distinct problem that is more difficult to manage than other mental health issues. In addition, they might be more familiar with how ADHD affects relationships as well as work performance.
In some states, psychologists may prescribe medications to their patients. However, they will usually send patients in need of psychotherapeutic intervention to psychiatrists. Psychiatrists are able to diagnose ADHD and also assist clients suffering from other psychiatric issues that commonly co-occur with adult ADHD including bipolar disorder, depression, and severe anxiety.
In general, it's recommended to look for an ADHD specialist within a larger medical practice. It's beneficial to have a therapist, psychiatrist or counselor at the same location. It also makes it easier for you to communicate and share information with them. Some psychiatrists are family-oriented and will see children as well as adults within the same family.