Doctors That Treat ADHD in Adults
If you suffer from adult ADHD, your doctor will likely refer you to a mental health specialist. The two primary kinds of specialists who treat ADHD are psychologists and psychiatrists. Psychologists can prescribe medications.
Your consultant may talk to coworkers as well as teachers, supervisors and coworkers to learn about your school or work problems. They could also inquire about your family background and may use psychological tests.
Psychiatrists
Some psychiatrists have experience with treating adults with ADHD. However it is advisable to consult a specialist. If your local mental clinics or community centers offer referral services, they may have the names of specialists in your area. You can also search on the internet or ask friends for recommendations. If you are insured, check to see which insurance companies accept your plan.
A Psychiatrist, or psychiatrist is a licensed doctor who prescribes medications to treat a range of psychiatric disorders, such as ADHD. Psychiatrists are trained to make differential diagnosis, and are able to identify the cause of symptoms and recommend the appropriate treatment. They can also treat co-occurring disorders, such as depression, severe anxiety bipolar disorder, aggressive disorders, that co-occur with ADHD.
Psychologists who treat adult ADHD focus on the psychological aspect of the disorder and work to help patients cope with their symptoms through talk therapy, often psychodynamic or cognitive therapy. They may not be able to prescribe medication, but they can collaborate with an ADHD medical doctor or psychiatrist to manage the patient's entire 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/wake, or strategies for organizing.
Licensed Mental health counselors or Professional Counselors are mental health professionals who have a master's degree who provide different types of talk therapy. LMHCs or LPCs can conduct initial assessments and recommend clients to a psychologist or psychiatrist for a more detailed assessment. Therapists can also provide support sessions and individual therapy for particular needs.
A psychiatrist can aid those with ADHD who are having difficulties in their relationships. They can learn how to improve their communication skills and resolve conflicts. Some psychiatrists provide family or marriage counseling. Others will collaborate with a coach or a specialist therapist who has been specifically trained in working with ADHD patients to ensure their patients receive the best possible behavioral treatment alongside their medication.
Be aware of your unique circumstances and goals when searching for a doctor to treat adult ADHD. Make a list of the symptoms and the issues you would like to address, and then search for an expert who has experience in these areas.
Family Physicians
Adults suffering from ADHD are most commonly treated by family doctors. They'll discuss with you your symptoms and issues in school, work or relationships. They'll also inquire about your medical history and look at any evidence from your childhood, such as report cards. They can also help you manage your ADHD by recommending adjustments, tools, or other changes that make it possible to achieve and succeed like those who don't suffer from ADHD. Consider these accommodations as a step-stool that allows a shorter person to reach higher things.
Many doctors believe ADHD is caused due to the absence or imbalance of neurotransmitters. These are the chemicals that signal different organs of your body to function. These doctors may prescribe medication to restore the balance of neurotransmitters. These drugs include stimulants, such as amphetamines and the methylphenidate. They also include non-stimulants like atomoxetine or bupropion. They can be beneficial, but most people with ADHD do better with therapy or lifestyle changes.
Stress can be triggered by ADHD symptoms, specifically inattention and impulsivity. They also make people more susceptible of depression or anxiety and lead them to self-medicating using alcohol or drugs, which can actually worsen their ADHD symptoms. People with ADHD typically need to perform more to meet their obligations at home and work, which can lead to feelings of shame or guilt. This can lead to strained relationships between family members and friends.
ADHD is not cureable, but the correct treatment can make you more successful in your work and at home. It can help you turn some ADHD symptoms into benefits such as being innovative or having a great memory.
Being diagnosed and treated can be hard however, it's essential to find a doctor that understands your symptoms and can assist you in managing them. It's also important to find a support group to ensure you receive the assistance you require. The more you know about your symptoms and how to deal with them, the better prepared you'll be at handling life's challenges. You'll also be more likely to maintain positive relationships with family members, coworkers and friends.
Neurologists
Certain people with ADHD are not diagnosed until they reach adulthood. Others never learn that they suffer from ADHD. This can be for a variety of reasons. Symptoms may have been overlooked by parents or teachers in their early years, or they may not have received the support needed to be successful. Also, the comorbidity of other disorders, like depression or sleeping disorders, can mimic the ADHD symptoms, making it hard to distinguish the two.
It is essential to select the right healthcare professional who has expertise in diagnosing and treating ADHD in adults. long-term effects of untreated adhd in adults includes neurology specialists who are able to conduct comprehensive ADHD testing and assessments to determine the patient's cognitive performance medical history, as well as psychosocial context.
Consult your primary care physician for recommendations or verify credentials with local neurology associations. It is important to ensure that your doctor has the board certification and has experience treating adult ADHD. Find a neurologist who communicates clearly and offers details about the treatment options available to you.
A neurology expert can also assess for comorbid conditions that frequently are associated with ADHD, such as sleep disorders and learning disabilities. They can use electroencephalogram (EEG) tests to determine if a person's brain activity is normal, or if they may have a seizure disorder or another neurological issue that should be addressed in order to maximize the effectiveness of their ADHD medication.
A neuroscientist can also conduct psychotherapy to help adults with ADHD overcome their challenges and develop positive self-perception. For instance, they can teach strategies for managing time, plan tasks and remain organized. They can also help individuals learn to tolerate frustration, address their anger, and improve their relationship skills. They can also address the negative self-talk that has developed over the course of dealing with ADHD.
Psychologists
ADHD can be treated. The most effective treatment options are usually the combination of medication, skill training and psychotherapy. It is important to find the right professional for you. The best place to start is with a primary physician or family physician who can help you begin on the right path for treatment. Many have also found it beneficial to seek out help from an therapist, coach or counselor.
When searching for an adult ADHD specialist, be sure to talk with several potential providers. Ask potential specialists how they approach treatment. Make a list of the symptoms you'd like to address during therapy. You can also inquire about their qualifications and education, and if they have expertise in treating adults with ADHD.
A lot of psychologists are trained to diagnose and treatment of adult ADHD. They can employ a variety of psychotherapy techniques such as cognitive psychotherapy and interpersonal therapy. They may also utilize techniques of relaxation and mindfulness to help clients improve their ability to self-regulate and cope with their symptoms. These strategies are especially helpful for adults who struggle with low self-esteem, negative thinking, and self criticism.
Adult ADHD is a distinct problem that is more difficult to manage than other mental health issues. They might also be more familiar with the ways ADHD affects work and relationships.
In some states psychologists can prescribe medication to their patients. They can refer patients in need of psychiatric treatment to psychiatrists. The psychiatrists can diagnose ADHD and other disorders of the psyche that are typically associated with adult ADHD. These include bipolar disorder, depression, and severe anxiety.
In general it's a good idea to search for an ADHD specialist within the 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. Additionally, some psychiatrists have an approach to family and are willing to see children and adults who are part of the same family.