Doctors That Treat ADHD in Adults
If you are diagnosed with adult ADHD, you will most likely be referred to an expert in mental health by your physician. Psychologists and psychiatrists are the two primary types of professionals who treat ADHD. Psychologists can prescribe medications.
Your doctor may ask questions of your supervisors or coworkers, as and your teachers to find out about any problems you are having at work or in school. They might also inquire about your family background and conduct psychological tests.
Psychiatrists
Certain psychiatrists are adept at treating adults with ADHD, but it is best to find a specialist. If your local mental health clinics or community centers offer referral services, they might have lists of specialists in the area. You can also ask your family or friends for recommendations or browse the internet for recommendations. If you have insurance make sure you know which insurance companies accept your plan.
A Psychiatrist is a doctor who is licensed to prescribe medications for a range of psychiatric conditions, including ADHD. They typically have specialized training in differential diagnosis and are able to identify the root of your symptoms and suggest the most appropriate treatment. They can also treat comorbid disorders, like depression or severe anxiety bipolar disorders, as well as aggressive disorders that occur in conjunction with ADHD.
Adult ADHD is managed by psychologists who focus on the psychological aspect of the condition. They aid patients in dealing with their symptoms by using talk therapy. This can be cognitive behavioral therapy or a psychodynamic therapy. They may not be able prescribe medication, but they are able to collaborate with an ADHD medical professional or psychiatrist to manage the patient's entire treatment plan. They can help patients develop strategies that help improve their everyday functioning, such as organizing strategies or healthy habits relating to diet, exercise and sleep/wake schedules.
Licensed Mental health counselors or Professional Counselors are mental health professionals with a master's degree who provide various types of talk therapy. LMHCs or LPCs can conduct initial assessments and refer clients to a psychiatrist or psychologist to conduct a more thorough evaluation. Therapists can also provide support groups and individual therapy for particular needs.
Many people who suffer from ADHD have issues in their relationships, and a psychiatrist can assist them in developing skills to improve communication and resolve conflicts. Some psychiatrists provide marriage or family counseling. Some psychiatrists collaborate with a therapist, coach or a therapist who is specifically trained to work with ADHD patients.
Take into consideration your personal circumstances and goals when looking for a doctor to treat adult ADHD. Make a list of your symptoms as well as the problems you'd like to address and then find an expert with experience in those areas.
Family Physicians
Family doctors are the most popular healthcare providers who treat ADHD in adults. They'll talk to you about your symptoms and concerns in school, work or relationships. They'll also inquire about your medical history and look at any childhood records like report cards. They can assist you in managing ADHD by offering tools, accommodations, or changes that will allow you to achieve and succeed as people without ADHD. These adjustments can be compared to a step stool which allows someone who is shorter to achieve greater goals.
Many doctors believe that ADHD is due to a lack or imbalance of neurotransmitters, chemicals in the brain that allow different parts of the body to function. These doctors may prescribe medication to restore the balance of neurotransmitters. These include stimulants like amphetamines, methylphenidate and bupropion, as well non-stimulants like atomoxetine. While they can be beneficial, most people with ADHD benefit more from lifestyle or psychotherapy.
The symptoms of ADHD, especially inattention and impulsivity, can result in stress. They also make people more susceptible of anxiety or depression and make them more prone to self-medicating with alcohol or other drugs, which can actually worsen their ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD are often forced to work more at home and at work to achieve their goals and this can cause them to feel embarrassed or guilt. This can cause tensions between family members and friends.
There is no cure for ADHD however, treatment can help you to achieve success at work and home. It could even help you turn some of your ADHD symptoms into positives for example, being creative or having a good memory.
Finding a doctor that understands your symptoms can be difficult but you must locate a doctor who can assist you to manage these symptoms. It is also important to find a support network to get the assistance you need. The more you understand about your symptoms and the best ways to deal with them, you'll be better prepared to tackle the challenges of life. You'll also be more likely to have positive relationships with family members, coworkers and friends.
Neurologists
Certain people with ADHD are not diagnosed until they reach adulthood. Some people do not even realize that they have ADHD. This could be due to a variety of reasons. For adhd treatment for adult women , their symptoms might be overlooked in childhood because their parents or teachers didn't recognize them or provide them with the supportive environment that they needed to thrive despite their symptoms. Also, the comorbidity of other conditions like sleep disorders or depression could be similar to the symptoms of ADHD and make it difficult to differentiate one from the other.
It is essential to choose the right healthcare professional with experience in diagnosing and treating ADHD in adults. This includes neurology specialists who are able to conduct thorough ADHD testing and assessments to evaluate the patient's cognitive performance medical history, as well as psychosocial context.
When choosing a neurologist, ask your primary care physician for referrals or check with local associations of neurologists to verify credentials. Also, make sure your neurologist is board-certified and has experience in treating adult ADHD patients. Choose a neurologist who communicates clearly and offers details on the treatment options available.
A neurology expert can also assess for comorbid disorders that often coexist with ADHD for example, sleep disorders and learning disabilities. They can use electroencephalograms (EEG) to determine if someone has normal brain activity or if there is a seizure disorder, or a different neurological issue which needs to be dealt with to improve the effectiveness of their ADHD medication.
A neurologist may also provide psychotherapy to help adults with ADHD overcome their challenges and improve their self-image. They can teach time management strategies, help organize tasks and stay organized. They can also help individuals learn to manage their anger and deal with anger and improve their relationship skills. They can also address the negative self-talk developed over years of dealing with ADHD.
Psychologists
ADHD can be treated. adhd treatment for older adults are usually an amalgamation of medication, skill training, and psychotherapy. But, it's crucial to find the right professional for you. The best place to start is with a primary physician or family physician who can help you get started on the treatment path. Many have discovered it beneficial to seek help from a therapist, coach, or counselor.
If you are looking for an adult ADHD specialist, be sure to speak with several potential providers. Ask prospective specialists how they approach treatment. Create a list of your goals and symptoms that you'd like to concentrate on during therapy. You could also inquire about their education, training, and experience in treating adults with ADHD.
Many psychologists are certified 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 can also employ relaxation and mindfulness techniques in order to improve the capacity of the client to manage their own emotions and cope with symptoms. These strategies can be particularly beneficial for those who suffer from difficulty with self-esteem, negative self-talk, and self-criticism.
Adult ADHD is a unique issue that can be more difficult to manage than other mental health problems. They may be more knowledgeable about the way ADHD affects work and relationships.
In some states, psychologists may prescribe medications to their patients. They can refer patients who require psychiatric care to psychiatrists. They are able to diagnose ADHD and also assist clients suffering from other psychiatric issues that commonly co-occur with adult ADHD like bipolar disorder, depression, and severe anxiety.
It's best to look for an ADHD specialist in an established medical practice. It's convenient to have a therapist, psychiatrist or counselor at the same place. It can also make it easier to communicate and exchange information with them. Additionally some psychiatrists have an approach that is family-oriented and are willing to treat children as well as adult members of the same family.