Doctors That Treat ADHD in Adults

If you are diagnosed with adult ADHD, you will likely be recommended to a mental health professional by your physician. The two main types of specialists that treat ADHD are psychiatrists and psychologists. Psychologists are able to prescribe medications.

untreated adhd in adults relationships Links to an external site. may interview your supervisors or coworkers, as also your teachers to find out about any problems you are experiencing at work or in school. They might also inquire about your family history, and may use psychological testing.

Psychiatrists

Some psychiatrists have experience treating adults with ADHD. However, it is best to seek out 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 friends for suggestions. If you are insured make sure you know which providers accept your plan.


A Psychiatrist is a doctor who is licensed to prescribe medications for a variety of mental health conditions, including ADHD. They typically have specialized training in differential diagnosis. They are able to determine the root cause of your symptoms and recommend the appropriate treatment. They can also treat comorbid disorders, including depression, anxiety that is severe bipolar disorder, or aggressive disorders that are co-occurring with ADHD.

Psychologists who treat adults with ADHD focus on the psychological aspects of the condition and try to assist patients in coping with their symptoms by using talk therapy, which is often called cognitive behavioral therapy or psychodynamic therapy. They may not be able prescribe medications, but they can collaborate with an ADHD medical professional or psychiatrist to manage the patient's entire treatment plan. They can provide strategies to patients that help improve their everyday functioning, such as organizational methods or healthy habits linked to exercise, diet and sleep/wake routines.

Licensed Mental health counselors or Professional Counselors are mental health professionals with an advanced degree that provide various types of talk therapy. LMHCs or LPCs can conduct initial assessments and recommend clients to a psychiatrist or psychologist to conduct a more thorough evaluation. Therapists are also able to offer support sessions and individual therapy to address particular requirements.

A psychiatrist can aid those with ADHD who are having difficulties in their relationships. They can learn to improve their communication skills and solve conflicts. Some psychiatrists offer family or marriage therapy. Some psychiatrists work with a coach, therapist or a therapist specially trained to deal with ADHD patients.

Be aware of your unique circumstances and goals when searching for a doctor who can treat adult ADHD. Make a list of the symptoms and the issues you wish to address, and then search for a practitioner with expertise in these areas.

Family Physicians

Adults with ADHD are typically treated by family physicians. They will ask you about your symptoms, issues at work, school or in relationships. They'll also ask you about your medical history, and may also look over records from childhood such as report cards. They can also assist you to manage your ADHD by recommending adjustments, tools, or other changes that will allow you to reach and achieve the same level as those who don't suffer from ADHD. These accommodations can be compared to an incline which helps those who are smaller to reach higher goals.

Many doctors believe that ADHD is caused by an imbalance or lack of neurotransmitters. These are chemicals that are responsible for allowing various parts of your body to function. As a result, doctors may prescribe medications to restore the balance of neurotransmitters. These include stimulants like amphetamines, methylphenidate, and bupropion, and non-stimulants like atomoxetine. Although they can be helpful but the majority of people suffering from ADHD benefit more from lifestyle or psychotherapy.

Stress can be caused by ADHD symptoms, particularly inattention and impulsivity. They also increase the risk of developing anxiety or depression, and lead them to self-medicating through alcohol or other drugs which can exacerbate their ADHD symptoms. People with ADHD often must work harder to meet expectations at home and at work and this can cause feelings of shame or guilt. This can cause strained relationships with family and friends.

There is no cure for ADHD, but treatment can make it easier to succeed at work and at home. It can help you turn some ADHD symptoms into advantages like being more creative or having an excellent memory.

Being diagnosed and diagnosed can be a challenge and stressful, but it's crucial to find a doctor who is aware of your symptoms and can help you manage these. You should also join a support network to get the assistance you require. The more you know about your symptoms and how to deal with them, the better you'll be able to deal with the challenges of life. You'll also be more likely to enjoy positive relationships with your family, friends and co-workers.

Neurologists

Many people suffering from ADHD don't get diagnosed until adulthood and some don't discover they have the condition at all. This could be due to a variety of reasons. Symptoms may have been overlooked by parents or teachers in childhood or they might not have received the help needed to be successful. Or, the comorbidity with other disorders, like sleep disorders or depression, can mimic the ADHD symptoms, making it hard to distinguish the two.

It's important to choose 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 cognitive function of a patient as well as medical history and psychosocial context.

Ask your primary physician for recommendations or check credentials with local associations for neurology. You should also ensure that your neurologist is expertise and board certification, as well as experience in treating adult ADHD. Choose a neurologist that communicates clearly and provides information about your treatment options.

A neurology specialist can also assess for comorbid conditions that frequently coexist with ADHD, such as sleep disorders and learning disabilities. They can use electroencephalograms (EEG) to determine if a person has normal brain activity or if there's seizures, or another neurological issue that needs to treated to increase the effectiveness of their ADHD treatment.

A neurologist can also provide psychotherapy to help people suffering from ADHD overcome their issues and develop a positive self-image. For example, they can teach strategies for managing time, plan tasks and stay organized. They can assist people in learning to tolerate frustration and anger, as well as improve their relationships. They can also address negative self-talk that develops over the course of dealing with ADHD.

Psychologists

ADHD is treatable, and the most effective treatments usually require a combination of medication, skills training, and psychotherapy. It's important to choose the right specialist. The best place to begin is with a primary care doctor or family physician who can help you begin on the path to treatment. Many have discovered that it is beneficial to seek help from an therapist, coach or counselor.

Interview several potential providers when you are looking for an adult ADHD expert. Ask prospective specialists how they approach treatment. Make a list with your goals and symptoms that you'd like to focus on in therapy. You can also inquire about their training and education as well as if they have experience treating adults with ADHD.

Many psychologists are trained to diagnose and treatment of adults with ADHD. They may use various psychotherapy methods, including cognitive behavioral therapy and interpersonal therapy. They may also utilize mindfulness and relaxation techniques to enhance a client's capacity to self-regulate and cope with their symptoms. These techniques are particularly beneficial for adults who struggle with low self-esteem, negative thoughts and self-criticism.

Adult ADHD is a particular issue that can be more difficult to manage than other mental health issues. In addition, they may be more knowledgeable about how ADHD affects relationships as well as work performance.

In some states, psychologists may prescribe medications to their patients. However, they usually refer patients who require psychiatric intervention to psychiatrists. They are able to diagnose ADHD and may also assist clients suffering from other psychiatric issues that are often co-occurring with adult ADHD, such as depression, bipolar disorder, and severe anxiety.

In general it's an ideal idea to search for an ADHD specialist within an established medical practice. This can provide the convenience of having a psychiatrist, psychologist or counselor in one location, and it can make it easier to share information and communicate with them about their respective care. Additionally some psychiatrists have an approach that is family-oriented and are willing to see children and adult members of the same family.