Doctors That Treat ADHD in Adults

If you're diagnosed with adult ADHD then you will most likely be referred to a mental health professional by your doctor. The two main kinds of specialists who treat ADHD are psychologists and psychiatrists. Psychiatrists can prescribe medication.

Your specialist may interview co-workers as well as teachers, supervisors and coworkers to get a better understanding of your school or work problems. They might also inquire about your family history and may use psychological tests.

Psychiatrists

Some psychiatrists are experienced in treating adults with ADHD, but it is best to consult an expert. If your local mental health clinics or community centers offer referral services, they could have lists of specialists in the area. You can also ask your family or friends for recommendations or look online for recommendations. Verify that your insurance plan is recognized by the insurers.

A Psychiatrist or physician is someone who is licensed to prescribe medication for a variety of psychiatric conditions, including ADHD. Psychiatrists typically have specialized training in differential diagnosis. They can identify the root cause of your symptoms and recommend the best treatment. They can also treat co-occurring disorders, like depression, anxiety that is severe, bipolar disorder, or aggressive disorders, that co-occur with ADHD.

Psychologists who treat adults with ADHD concentrate on the psychological aspect of the disorder and work to help patients manage their symptoms through talk therapy, often cognitive behavioral therapy or psychodynamic therapy. They might not be able to prescribe medication however they can work with an ADHD physician or psychiatrist to oversee a patient's complete treatment plan. They can teach patients how to improve their daily functioning. This can include organizing techniques and healthy habits that are related to eating, exercise, and schedules for sleep/wake, or methods for organizing.

Licensed Mental health counselors or Professional Counselors are mental health professionals who have a master's degree who provide various types of talk therapy. LMHCs or LPCs can conduct initial assessments and refer clients to a psychologist or psychiatrist for a more detailed assessment. psychological treatment for adhd in adults can also provide support groups or individual therapy for particular needs.

Many people who suffer from ADHD experience challenges in their relationships, and a psychiatrist can help them develop abilities to improve communication and resolve conflicts. Some psychiatrists offer marriage or family therapy. Others may work with a coach or specialist therapist who has been specifically trained to work with ADHD patients to ensure that their patients receive a comprehensive treatment plan in addition to their medication.

When seeking a doctor who treats adults with ADHD be sure to consider the unique circumstances and goals of your life. Create a list of your symptoms and the issues you wish to address, then find a practitioner with expertise in these areas.

Family Physicians

Family physicians are the most common healthcare providers who treat ADHD in adults. 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 records from childhood such as report cards. They can assist you in managing ADHD by providing tools, accommodations or adjustments that will allow you to achieve and succeed as people without ADHD. Think of these accommodations as a step stool that allows a smaller person to achieve greater heights.

Many doctors believe ADHD is caused by a shortage or imbalance in neurotransmitters. These are chemicals that signal various parts of your body to function. In the end, these doctors may prescribe medication 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 helpful but the majority of people suffering from ADHD benefit more from lifestyle or psychotherapy.

Symptoms of ADHD, especially impulsivity and inattention, can create stress. They also make people more susceptible of depression or anxiety and lead them to self-medicating using alcohol or drugs which can exacerbate their ADHD symptoms. People with ADHD are often forced to perform more at home and at work to achieve their goals, which can lead them to feel embarrassed or guilt. This can result in tensions between family members and friends.

ADHD isn't curable, but the right treatment can help you succeed at work and at home. It can help turn ADHD symptoms into benefits, such as being creative or having an excellent memory.

Being diagnosed and diagnosed can be a challenge and stressful, but it's crucial to find a doctor that understands your symptoms and can help you manage these. It is also important to find an organization that can provide the help you require. The more you know about your symptoms and the best way to deal with them, you'll be better prepared to face life's challenges. You'll also be more likely to maintain positive relationships with your family, coworkers and friends.

Neurologists

Some people with ADHD are not diagnosed until they reach the age of adulthood. Many people are unaware that they have ADHD. This can happen for many reasons. Symptoms may have been overlooked by teachers or parents during their childhood or they might not have received the help needed to thrive. Also, the comorbidity of 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 choose an expert in healthcare who has expertise in diagnosing and treating ADHD in adults. A neurology specialist can offer thorough ADHD assessments and testing to evaluate the patient's cognitive abilities as well as medical history, psychosocial context, and other factors.

When selecting a neurologist consult your primary care doctor for referrals or check with local associations for neurology to verify credentials. Also, ensure that your neurologist is board-certified and has experience in treating adult ADHD patients. Find a neurologist who communicates clearly and provides you with information about your treatment options.

A neurology expert will also be able to look for other conditions that often coexist with ADHD. These include sleeping disorders and learning disabilities. They can use electroencephalogram (EEG) tests to determine whether the brain activity of a patient is normal, or if they may have a seizure-related disorder or another neurological issue that must be addressed in order to maximize the effectiveness of their ADHD medication.

A neurologist can also provide psychotherapy to help adults with ADHD overcome their issues and develop a positive self-image. For example, they can teach strategies to manage time, plan work tasks, and remain organized. They can help people learn to tolerate frustration and anger, as well as improve their relationships. In addition, they are able to tackle negative self-talk which has been accumulated as a result of years of struggling with ADHD.

Psychologists

ADHD is treatable and the most effective treatments often require a combination of medication, skills training, and psychotherapy. But, it's crucial to choose the right doctor for you. You can start by consulting your primary medical doctor or family doctor, who will help you begin on the right path. In addition, many people have found it beneficial to seek out help from a therapist, counselor, or coach.

Find a variety of potential providers when looking for an adult ADHD expert. Make a list of the symptoms and goals you want to focus on in therapy, and inquire of potential specialists about their treatment approach. You may also inquire about their training, education and expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD.

A lot of psychologists are trained to diagnose and treatment of adult ADHD. They can employ a variety of psychotherapy methods, including cognitive psychotherapy and interpersonal therapy. They can also employ mindfulness and relaxation techniques in order to improve the client's ability self-regulate, and manage symptoms. These techniques are particularly beneficial for those who suffer from low self-esteem, negative thoughts and self-criticism.

Adult ADHD is a unique challenge that can be more difficult to manage than other mental health problems. Additionally, they could be more familiar with the ways that ADHD affects relationships and performance.


In certain states psychologists can prescribe medication to their patients. They can refer patients in need of psychiatric treatment to psychiatrists. Psychiatrists can diagnose ADHD as well as other psychiatric disorders often associated with adult ADHD. They can diagnose bipolar disorder, depression, and severe anxiety.

It is best to find an ADHD specialist within a larger medical practice. It's convenient to have a therapist, psychiatrist or counselor in the same location. It can also make it easier to communicate and share information with them. Some psychiatrists are family-oriented and will see both children and adults within the same household.