Doctors That Treat ADHD in Adults
If you have ADHD, your doctor may refer you to a mental health professional. Psychologists and psychiatrists are the two main types who treat ADHD. Psychologists are able to prescribe medications.
Your specialist may interview your co-workers or supervisors, as also your teachers, to learn about any issues you're having at work or in school. They may also ask about your family history and use psychological tests.
Psychiatrists
Certain psychiatrists are adept at treating adults suffering from ADHD, but it is best to consult a specialist. If your local mental health clinics or community centers provide referral services, they might have lists of specialists in the area. You can also ask your friends or look online for recommendations. Make sure that your insurance plan is accepted by the providers.
A psychiatrist, also known as a Psychiatrist is a licensed doctor who prescribes medication to treat a variety psychiatric disorders including ADHD. Psychiatrists are trained in differential diagnosis, and can determine the root of the problem and recommend the appropriate treatment. They also treat comorbid disorders, such as depression, anxiety that is severe bipolar disorder, or aggressive disorders that are co-occurring with ADHD.
Psychologists who treat adults with ADHD concentrate on the psychological aspects of the condition and work to help patients manage their symptoms by using talks therapy, usually psychodynamic or cognitive therapy. They may not be able prescribe medications, but they can collaborate with an ADHD medical professional or psychiatrist to oversee the patient's treatment plan. They can guide patients on how to improve their daily functioning. This can include organizing techniques such as healthy habits, eating, exercise, and schedules for sleep and wake, or strategies for organizing.
Licensed Mental Health Counselors or Professional Counselors (LMHC, LPC) are mental health professionals with an advanced degree and offer different types of talk therapy. LMHCs or LPCs can conduct initial assessments and recommend clients to a psychologist or psychiatrist to conduct a more thorough evaluation. Therapists can also provide support groups or individual therapy for particular needs.
A psychiatrist can aid those with ADHD who have issues with their relationships. They can learn to improve communication skills and solve conflicts. Some psychiatrists will offer marriage or family therapy. Some psychiatrists will work with a therapist, coach or a therapist that is specially trained to work with ADHD patients.
If you are looking for a doctor that treats adults with ADHD be sure to consider the unique circumstances and goals you're pursuing in your life. Make a list of your symptoms and the problems you'd like to address, then look for an expert who has prior experience in these areas.
Family Physicians
Family doctors are the most frequent healthcare providers who treat ADHD in adults. They'll discuss with you your symptoms and issues with work, school or relationships. They'll also ask about your medical history and review any records from childhood, such as report cards. They can assist you in managing ADHD by providing tools, accommodations or modifications that enable you to reach and excel as people with ADHD. Consider these adjustments as a step stool that allows a person who is shorter to achieve greater heights.
Many doctors believe ADHD is due to the absence or imbalance of neurotransmitters. These are chemicals that signal various parts of your body to function. Doctors may prescribe medication to restore the balance of neurotransmitters. These medications include stimulants like amphetamines and methylphenidate as well as bupropion, as well as non-stimulants such as atomoxetine. They can be helpful however most people suffering from ADHD do better with psychotherapy or lifestyle adjustments.
Stress can be caused by ADHD symptoms, specifically inattention and impulsivity. They also increase the risk of anxiety or depression and increase their risk to self-medicating using alcohol or other drugs, which can actually worsen their ADHD symptoms. People who suffer from ADHD are often required to perform more at home and at work to meet their goals, which can lead them to feel ashamed or guilt. This can lead to strained relationships with family and friends.
ADHD is not treatable, but the right treatment can make you more successful at work and at home. It can even help you turn some of your ADHD symptoms into benefits like being creative or having a good memory.
Being diagnosed and treated can be hard however, it's essential to find a doctor who understands your symptoms and can assist you in managing them. It's also essential to find a support organization to ensure you get the help you need. The more you understand about your symptoms and the best way to manage them, you'll be better prepared to tackle life's challenges. You'll be more likely to enjoy positive relationships with your family, friends and colleagues.
Neurologists
Some people with ADHD are not diagnosed until they reach the age of 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 notice them or provide them with the environment they needed to thrive despite their issues. Or, the comorbidity with other conditions, such as sleeping disorders or depression could be similar to the ADHD symptoms which makes it difficult to distinguish the two.
It is essential to select the right healthcare professional who is skilled in diagnosing and treating ADHD in adults. This includes neurology specialists who are able to conduct comprehensive ADHD testing and assessments to determine a patient's cognitive functioning as well as medical history and psychosocial context.
Ask your primary care doctor for recommendations or check credentials with local associations for neurology. It is important to ensure that your doctor has expertise and board certification, as well as experience in treating adults with ADHD. Select a neurologist who communicates clearly and offers details about the treatment options available to you.
A neurology expert can also evaluate for comorbid conditions that frequently occur alongside ADHD for example, sleep disorders and learning disabilities. They can utilize electroencephalograms (EEG) to determine if someone has normal brain activity or if there's seizure disorder or other neurological issue, that must be dealt with to improve the effectiveness of their ADHD medication.
A neurologist can also conduct psychotherapy to help people with ADHD cope with their difficulties and develop positive self-perception. For instance, they could teach strategies to manage time, plan work tasks, and stay organized. They can help people learn to handle anger and frustration and also improve their relationships. They can also address negative self-talk that develops over the course of dealing with ADHD.
Psychologists
ADHD can be treated, and the most effective treatments typically involve a combination of medications, skills training, and psychotherapy. But, it's crucial to find the right specialist for you. A good place to start is with a primary care physician or family physician, who can help you begin on the treatment path. Many have also discovered that it is beneficial to seek out help from coaches, therapists, or counselor.
When searching for an adult ADHD specialist, be sure to interview various potential providers. Make a list of the symptoms and goals you wish to concentrate on in therapy, and ask potential 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 have training in the diagnosis and treatment of adult ADHD. They can employ a variety of psychotherapy techniques, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and inter-personal therapy. They can also employ mindfulness and relaxation techniques to enhance the ability of the client to self-regulate and deal with the symptoms. These strategies are especially beneficial for those who suffer from low self-esteem, negative thinking, and self criticism.
Adult ADHD is a unique issue that can be more difficult to manage than other mental health issues. In addition, they might be more familiar with the ways that ADHD affects relationships and performance.
In signs of untreated adhd in adults can prescribe medication to their patients. However, they usually send patients in need of psychotherapeutic intervention to psychiatrists. Psychiatrists are able to diagnose ADHD as well as other psychiatric disorders that are commonly associated with adult ADHD. These include depression, bipolar disorder and severe anxiety.
It is best to find an ADHD specialist within a larger medical practice. It's beneficial to have a psychiatrist, therapist, or counselor in the same location. It can also make 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 household.