Doctors That Treat ADHD in Adults
If you're diagnosed with adult ADHD You will likely be directed to a mental health professional by your doctor. Psychologists and psychiatrists are the two main kinds of specialists who treat ADHD. Psychologists can prescribe medications.
Your consultant may talk to coworkers, supervisors and teachers to learn about your school or work issues. They could also inquire about your family background and use psychological tests.
Psychiatrists
Some psychiatrists have experience with treating adults suffering from ADHD. However it is recommended to consult with a specialist. If your local mental health clinics or community centers offer referral services, they could have lists of specialists in the area. You can also search online or ask your friends for recommendations. If you are insured make sure you know which companies will accept your plan.
A Psychiatrist or physician is someone who is licensed to prescribe medications for a variety of mental disorders such as ADHD. Psychiatrists typically have specialized training in differential diagnosis and can identify the root cause of your symptoms and suggest the appropriate treatment. They can also treat co-occurring disorders, including depression, severe anxiety bipolar disorder, aggressive disorders, that co-occur with ADHD.
Psychologists who treat adults with ADHD concentrate on the psychological aspects of the disorder and work to assist patients in coping with their symptoms by using talk therapy, often psychodynamic or cognitive therapy. They may not be able to prescribe medication, but they can work with an ADHD medical doctor or psychiatrist to manage the patient's entire treatment plan. They can teach patients how to improve their daily functioning. This includes organizing techniques such as healthy habits, eating habits, exercise and sleep/wake schedules, or even strategies for organizing.
Licensed Mental Health counselors or Professional Counselors are mental health professionals with master's degrees who offer different types of therapy. LMHCs and LPCs are certified to conduct initial assessments and can refer clients for a more thorough assessment with a psychologist, or psychiatrist. Therapists are also able to provide support groups or individual therapy for particular needs.
Many people with ADHD have issues in their relationships, and a psychiatrist can assist them in developing abilities to improve communication and resolve conflicts. Some psychiatrists offer family or marriage counseling. Some psychiatrists will work with a therapist, coach or a therapist specially trained to assist ADHD patients.
Be aware of your unique circumstances and goals when looking for a doctor who can treat adult ADHD. Make an inventory of your symptoms and issues you want to tackle and then search for a practitioner who has experience in those areas.
Family Physicians
Adults with ADHD are most commonly treated by family doctors. They'll ask you about your symptoms, concerns 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 assist you in managing ADHD by suggesting tools, accommodations or adjustments that will enable you to reach and be successful as those with ADHD. Think of these accommodations as a step that allows a shorter person to reach higher things.
Many doctors believe ADHD is caused by a shortage or imbalance in neurotransmitters. These are the chemicals that allow different organs of your body to function. In the end, doctors may prescribe medications to restore the proper balance of neurotransmitters. These include stimulants such as amphetamines and methylphenidate as well as bupropion, as well non-stimulants like atomoxetine. Although they can be beneficial for some, the majority of people with ADHD benefit more from psychotherapy or lifestyle modifications.
The symptoms of ADHD including inattention and impulsivity, can cause stress. They can also make people more susceptible of developing anxiety or depression, and lead them to self-medicating through alcohol or drugs, which can actually worsen their ADHD symptoms. People with ADHD are often required to work harder at home and at work to achieve their goals which can cause them to feel shame or guilt. This can lead to strained relationships with family and friends.
There is no cure for ADHD but treatment can help you to succeed at work and home. It can help turn ADHD symptoms into advantages such as being innovative or having a great memory.
Finding a doctor and getting treated can be hard and stressful, but it's crucial to find a doctor who is aware of your symptoms and can help you manage these. It's also important to find a support organization to ensure you receive the assistance you require. The more you learn about your symptoms and how to manage them, the better off you'll be at handling the challenges of life. You'll also be more likely to have positive relationships with your family, colleagues and friends.
Neurologists
Many people who suffer from ADHD aren't diagnosed until adulthood and some don't discover they have the condition in the first place. This can be for a variety of reasons. For instance, their symptoms might have been overlooked during their childhood because parents or teachers did not notice them or provided them with the supportive environment they needed to flourish despite their ailments. The multi-factorial nature of other disorders such as depression or sleep disorders can be similar to the symptoms of ADHD which makes it difficult to distinguish one from the other.
It is essential to select a healthcare professional that is skilled in diagnosing and treating ADHD in adults. A specialist in neurology can provide complete ADHD assessments and testing to evaluate the patient's cognitive abilities as well as medical history, psychosocial context and other variables.
When selecting a neurologist, consult your primary care doctor for referrals or check with local associations of neurologists to confirm credentials. Also, ensure that your neurologist is board certified and has experience in treating adult ADHD patients. Choose a neurologist that communicates clearly and provides details about the treatment options available to you.
A neurology expert can also assess for comorbid conditions that frequently coexist with ADHD for example, learning disabilities and sleep disorders. They can perform electroencephalogram (EEG) tests to determine whether the brain activity of a person is normal, or if they may suffer from a seizure disorder or other neurological issue that needs to be addressed in order to increase the effectiveness of their ADHD medication.
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 remain organized. They can assist people in learning to handle anger and frustration and improve their relationships. Additionally, they can tackle negative self-talk which has developed as a result of years of struggling with ADHD.
Psychologists
ADHD is treatable, and the most effective treatments typically include a combination of drugs, skills training, and psychotherapy. But, it's crucial to find the right professional for you. A good place to start is with a primary physician or family physician, who can help you get started on the right path for treatment. In adhd treatment for older adults , many people have found it beneficial to seek help from a counselor, therapist or coach.
When searching for an adult ADHD specialist, make sure to interview various potential providers. Ask potential specialists how they approach treatment. Make a list with the symptoms you'd like to focus on in therapy. You could also inquire about their education, training and expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD.
Many psychologists have specific training in the diagnosis and treatment of adults with ADHD. They may use a range of psychotherapy techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy and inter-personal therapy. They may also use meditation and relaxation techniques to increase the client's ability self-regulate, and cope with symptoms. These strategies are especially beneficial for those who suffer from low self-esteem, negative thoughts and self criticism.
Psychologists who specialize in adult ADHD are often more attentive to the unique challenges of adult ADHD than other mental health professionals. They could also be more aware of the way ADHD affects relationships and work.
In some states, psychologists may prescribe medications to their patients. However, they will usually send patients in need of psychiatric intervention to psychiatrists. They are able to diagnose ADHD and also assist clients suffering from other psychiatric issues that often co-occur with ADHD like bipolar disorder, depression, and severe anxiety.
It is recommended to seek out an ADHD specialist within a larger medical practice. It's convenient to have a therapist, psychiatrist or counselor in the same place. It can also make it easier for you to communicate and exchange information with them. In addition, some psychiatrists have a family-oriented approach and are willing to see children and adults who are part of the same family.