Doctors That Treat ADHD in Adults
If you suffer from adult ADHD Your doctor will likely refer you to a mental health professional. The two primary kinds of specialists who treat ADHD are psychologists and psychiatrists. Psychologists can prescribe medications.
Your specialist may interview co-workers, supervisors and teachers to get a better understanding of your work or school performance problems. They may also ask about your family history and conduct psychological tests.
Psychiatrists
Some psychiatrists have experience with treating adults with ADHD. However, it is best to consult a specialist. If your local mental health clinics or community centers offer referral services, then they may have the names of specialists in your area. You can also ask your friends or search online for recommendations. Make sure that your insurance plan is accepted by the insurance companies.
A psychiatrist, also known as a Psychiatrist is a licensed doctor who prescribes medication to treat a variety of psychiatric disorders including ADHD. Psychiatrists typically have specialized training in differential diagnosis and are able to determine the cause of your symptoms and recommend the most appropriate treatment. They can also treat co-occurring disorders, like anxiety disorders or depression bipolar disorders, as well as aggressive disorders that co-occur along with ADHD.
Psychologists who treat adults with ADHD focus on the psychological aspect of the disorder and work to help patients cope with their symptoms by using talk therapy, which is often called psychodynamic or cognitive behavioral therapy. They may not be able to prescribe medications, but they can collaborate with an ADHD psychiatrist or medical doctor to oversee the patient's complete treatment plan. They can help patients learn how to improve their daily functioning. This includes organizing techniques and healthy habits that are related to eating habits, exercise and schedules for sleep/wake, or methods for organizing.
Licensed Mental Health Counselors or Professional Counselors (LMHC, LPC) are mental health professionals who have completed a masters degree and are able to provide different types of therapy. LMHCs and LPCs are certified to conduct initial assessments and they can refer their clients for a more in-depth evaluation with a psychologist or psychiatrist. Therapists can also provide support sessions and individual therapy for particular requirements.
A psychiatrist can assist 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. Some psychiatrists will work with a therapist, coach or a therapist that is specifically trained to deal with ADHD patients.
Take into consideration your personal circumstances and goals when searching for a doctor to treat adult ADHD. Make a list of the symptoms and issues that you wish to address, then find an expert with experience in these areas.
Family Physicians
Family doctors are the most frequent healthcare providers who treat ADHD in adults. They'll ask you about your symptoms, concerns at work, school or in relationships. They will also ask you about your medical history, and they may look at records from childhood such as report cards. They can also assist you to manage your ADHD by suggesting adjustments, tools, or other changes that will allow you to succeed and reach your goals like those who don't suffer from ADHD. These adjustments can be compared to a step stool which lets someone who is smaller to reach higher goals.
Many doctors believe that ADHD is caused due to an imbalance or lack of neurotransmitters. These are the chemicals that allow various parts of your body to function. As a result, these doctors may prescribe medications to restore the balance of neurotransmitters. These medications include stimulants such as amphetamines, methylphenidate and bupropion, and non-stimulants like atomoxetine. While they can be beneficial but the majority of people suffering from ADHD benefit more from psychotherapy or lifestyle changes.
Stress can be caused by ADHD symptoms, specifically inattention and impulsivity. They also put people at risk of depression or anxiety and increase their risk to self-medicating through alcohol or other drugs which can worsen their ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD are often forced to work harder at home and at work to meet their goals which can cause them to feel ashamed or guilt. This can cause tensions between family members and friends.
ADHD is not curable, but the right treatment can help you succeed in your work and at home. It could even help you turn some of your ADHD symptoms into positives for example, being creative or having a strong memory.
Being diagnosed and treated can be difficult, but it's important to find a doctor who understands your symptoms and can help you manage these. It's also important to join a support group to get the help you require. The more you know about your symptoms and how to deal with them, the better prepared you'll be able to deal with life's challenges. You'll be more likely to have positive relationships with your family, friends, and co-workers.
best treatment for adhd in adults with ADHD are not diagnosed until they reach adulthood. Many people are unaware that they have ADHD. This can be for many reasons. Symptoms may have been overlooked by parents or teachers in their early years or they may not have received the help needed to be successful. The multi-factorial nature of other disorders such as sleep disorders or depression can mimic the symptoms of ADHD which makes it difficult to differentiate one from the other.
It's important to choose a healthcare professional that has expertise in diagnosing and treating ADHD in adults. This includes neurology specialists who can conduct thorough ADHD testing and assessments to determine a patient's cognitive functioning as well as medical history and psychosocial context.
Consult your primary care physician for recommendations or check credentials with local associations for neurology. It is also important to confirm that your doctor has the board certification and has experience treating adults with ADHD. Choose a neurologist who speaks clearly and gives you details about the treatment options available to you.
A specialist in neurology can also evaluate for comorbid conditions that frequently are associated with ADHD for example, sleep disorders and learning disabilities. They can use electroencephalograms (EEG) to determine if a person is experiencing normal brain activity or if there is seizures, or other neurological issue, that needs to treated to increase the effectiveness of their ADHD treatment.
A neurologist can also offer psychotherapy to help adults with ADHD overcome their difficulties and develop a positive self-perception. They can teach time management strategies, help plan tasks and keep organized. They can help people learn to manage anger and frustration and improve their relationships. In addition, they are able to address negative self-talk that has developed as a result of years of struggling with ADHD.
Psychologists
ADHD can be treated. The most effective treatment options are usually the combination of medication, skill training and psychotherapy. However, it's important to find the right professional for you. It's best to start by talking with your primary care physician or family doctor who can assist you in starting on the right track. Many have discovered it beneficial to seek help from an therapist, coach or counselor.
Find a variety of potential providers when you are looking for an adult ADHD expert. Make a list of symptoms and goals that you want to concentrate on in therapy, and inquire of prospective specialists about their approach to treatment. You can also inquire about their education and training, as well as whether they have prior experience treating adults suffering from ADHD.
A lot of psychologists are trained to diagnose and treatment of adult ADHD. They may use a range of psychotherapy techniques, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and inter-personal therapy. They may also use techniques of relaxation and mindfulness to help clients improve their ability to regulate their behavior and manage their symptoms. These strategies are especially helpful for adults who struggle with low self-esteem, negative thinking, and self criticism.
Adult ADHD is a unique problem that is more difficult to manage than other mental health problems. They might also be more aware of the ways ADHD affects relationships at work and in the workplace.
In some states psychologists can prescribe medications for their patients. They will refer clients who require psychiatric care to psychiatrists. Psychiatrists can diagnose ADHD and may also assist patients with other psychiatric disorders that commonly co-occur with adult ADHD like depression, bipolar disorder, and severe anxiety.
It is best to find an ADHD specialist within an established medical practice. It's convenient to have a psychiatrist, therapist, or counselor in the same location. It also makes it easier to communicate and exchange information with them. Additionally, some psychiatrists have a family-oriented approach and are willing to see children and adult members of the same family.