Doctors That Treat ADHD in Adults
If you are diagnosed with adult ADHD then you will most likely be directed to a mental health professional by your physician. Psychologists and psychiatrists are the two main types of professionals who treat ADHD. psychiatrists can prescribe medication.
Your psychologist may speak with your supervisors or coworkers as well as your teachers, to learn about any problems you are having at work or in school. They may also ask you about your family history and may use psychological tests.
Psychiatrists
Certain psychiatrists have experience in treating adults with ADHD. However, it is best to consult with 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 also ask your friends or browse the internet for recommendations. If you are insured look up which insurance companies accept your plan.
A psychiatrist, also known as a Psychiatrist is a licensed physician who can prescribe medication to treat a range of psychiatric disorders including ADHD. Psychiatrists usually have training in differential diagnosis and can identify the root of your symptoms and suggest the most appropriate treatment. They also treat comorbid disorders, such as depression, anxiety that is severe bipolar disorder, aggressive disorders, which co-occur with ADHD.
Adult ADHD is treated by psychologists who focus on the psychological aspect of the disorder. They help patients cope with symptoms through talk therapy. This could be cognitive behavioral therapy or psychodynamic therapy. adhd in adults characterization diagnosis and treatment might not be able to prescribe medication, but they can coordinate with an ADHD psychiatrist or medical doctor to manage a patient's complete treatment plan. They can provide strategies to patients to improve their daily functioning, such as organizational strategies or healthy habits relating to exercise, diet and sleep/wake routines.
Licensed Mental health counselors or Professional Counselors are mental health professionals who have a master's degree who provide different types of therapy. LMHCs or LPCs can conduct initial assessments and refer clients to a psychiatrist or psychologist for a more comprehensive assessment. Therapists can also provide support sessions and individual therapy for particular requirements.
Many people with ADHD have issues in their relationships, and a psychiatrist can help them develop skills to improve communication and solve conflicts. Some psychiatrists offer family or marriage counseling. Others will work with a coach or a therapist who is specifically trained to work with ADHD patients to ensure their patients receive a comprehensive treatment plan along with their medication.
When seeking a doctor who treats adult ADHD, consider the unique circumstances and goals you have set for your life. Make an inventory of your symptoms and issues you wish to address and then search for a practitioner who has experience in those areas.
Family Physicians
Adults suffering from ADHD are usually treated by family doctors. They will ask you about your symptoms, problems at school, work or in relationships. They'll also ask about your medical history and look at any childhood records such as school reports. They can assist you with managing ADHD by offering tools, accommodations, or modifications that allow you to achieve and be successful as those with ADHD. These accommodations can be like an incline that allows someone who is shorter to reach higher goals.
Many doctors believe that ADHD is caused by a deficiency or imbalance of neurotransmitters, chemicals in the brain that instruct different organs of the 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 beneficial, but most people with ADHD do better with psychotherapy or lifestyle adjustments.
Symptoms of ADHD, especially inattention and impulsivity, can create stress. They also make people more susceptible of depression or anxiety and make them more prone to self-medicating with alcohol or other drugs, which can actually worsen their ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD typically need to perform more to meet their obligations at home and work, which can lead to feelings of guilt or shame. This can cause strained relationships with family and friends.
There is no cure for ADHD, but treatment can help you to succeed both at work and at home. It can even assist you in turning some of your ADHD symptoms into advantages like being creative or having a strong memory.
Finding a doctor who understands the symptoms you are experiencing can be challenging, but you need to locate a doctor who can assist you to manage these symptoms. It's also crucial to join a support group to get the help you need. The more you understand about your symptoms and the best methods to manage them, you'll be better prepared to tackle the challenges of life. You'll also be more likely to maintain positive relationships with family, coworkers and friends.
Neurologists
Some people with ADHD are not diagnosed until they reach adulthood. Some people do not even realize that they suffer from ADHD. This could be due to many reasons. For instance, their symptoms might be overlooked during their childhood because parents or teachers didn't recognize them or provide them with the supportive environment they needed to flourish despite their issues. The comorbidity with other disorders, like depression or sleeping disorders, may resemble the ADHD symptoms which makes it difficult to differentiate between the two.
It is essential to select an expert in healthcare who is experienced in diagnosing and treating ADHD in adults. This includes a neurology specialist who can conduct comprehensive ADHD tests and assessments to evaluate the patient's cognitive performance medical history, as well as psychosocial context.
Ask your primary care doctor for recommendations or verify credentials with local associations for neurology. It is also important to ensure that your neurologist is board certified and has experience in treating adult ADHD patients. Choose a neurologist who communicates clearly and provides you with details on the treatment options available.
A neurology expert can also look for other conditions that can coexist with ADHD. This includes learning disabilities and sleeping disorders. They can use electroencephalograms (EEG) to determine if a person is experiencing normal brain activity or if they have a seizure disorder, or a different neurological issue that must be treated to increase the effectiveness of their ADHD medication.
A neurologist can also provide psychotherapy to help adults who have ADHD overcome their challenges and improve their self-esteem. For instance, they could teach strategies to manage time, plan tasks, and remain organized. They can assist people in learning to tolerate frustration and anger and also improve their relationships. Additionally, they can address negative self-talk that has developed as a result of years of struggling with ADHD.
Psychologists
ADHD can be treated, and the most effective treatments often involve a combination of medications, skills training, and psychotherapy. It is important to find the right professional for you. The best place to start is with a primary care physician or family physician, who can get you started on the right path for treatment. Additionally, many have found it helpful to seek help from a therapist, counselor, or coach.
When searching for an adult ADHD specialist, make sure to interview several potential providers. Ask potential specialists about how they approach treatment. Make a list with your goals and symptoms that you'd like to address during therapy. You can also ask about their education and training, as well as if they have experience 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 may also use mindfulness and relaxation techniques to increase the capacity of the client to manage their own emotions and cope with symptoms. These strategies are especially helpful for adults who struggle with low self-esteem, negative thinking, and self-criticism.
Psychologists who specialize in adult ADHD are sometimes more attuned to the specific issues of adult ADHD than other mental health professionals. They could be more knowledgeable about the ways ADHD affects relationships and work.
In some states, psychologists may prescribe medication to their patients. However, they will usually refer clients who need psychiatric 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.
It is best to find an ADHD specialist in a larger medical practice. It's convenient to have a psychiatrist, therapist or counselor in the same place. It also makes it easier to communicate and share information with them. Some psychiatrists are family-oriented and will see both children and adults in the same family.