Doctors That Treat ADHD in Adults

If you suffer from adult ADHD, your doctor may refer you to a mental health professional. The two main types of specialists that treat ADHD are psychologists and psychiatrists. Psychiatrists are able to prescribe medication.


Your consultant may talk to coworkers, supervisors and teachers to learn about your school or work issues. They might also inquire about your family history and conduct psychological testing.

Psychiatrists

Some psychiatrists have experience treating adults suffering from ADHD. However it is advisable to seek out a specialist. If your local mental health clinics or community centers provide referral services, they might have lists of specialists in the area. You can also look online or ask your friends for recommendations. Make sure that your insurance plan is accepted by the insurance companies.

A Psychiatrist or physician is someone who is licensed to prescribe medication for a range of mental health conditions, including ADHD. Psychiatrists are trained in the field of differential diagnosis and can determine the root of the problem and suggest appropriate treatment. They can also treat co-occurring disorders, such as anxiety or depression bipolar disorders, as well as aggressive disorders that are co-occurring with ADHD.

Adult ADHD is managed by psychologists who focus on the psychological aspects of the disorder. They assist patients in coping with their symptoms by using talk therapy. This can be cognitive behavioral therapy or a psychodynamic therapy. They may not be able to prescribe medication but they can collaborate with an ADHD Psychiatrist or medical doctor to manage a patient's complete treatment plan. They can teach patients how to improve their daily functioning. This includes organizing techniques, healthy habits related eating, exercise, and schedules for sleep and wake, or organizational techniques.

Licensed Mental Health Counselors or Professional Counselors are mental health professionals who have a master's degree who provide different kinds of talk therapy. LMHCs and LPCs are able to conduct initial assessments and they can refer their clients for a deeper evaluation with a psychologist or psychiatrist. These therapists can also provide support sessions or individual therapy to meet particular needs.

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

Consider your unique life circumstances and goals when looking for a doctor to treat adult ADHD. Make an inventory of your symptoms as well as the issues you want to tackle and then search for a practitioner who has prior experience in these areas.

Family Physicians

Family physicians are the most common healthcare professionals who treat ADHD in adults. They'll discuss your symptoms and issues in school, work or relationships. They'll also ask you about your medical history, and may also look over documents from your childhood, such as report cards. They can also assist you to manage your ADHD by recommending adjustments, tools or modifications that allow you to achieve and succeed like people who do not have ADHD. Consider these accommodations as a step that allows a smaller person to achieve greater heights.

Many doctors believe that ADHD is due to an imbalance or lack of neurotransmitters. These are the chemicals that are responsible for allowing different parts of your body to function. These doctors may prescribe medication to restore the balance of neurotransmitters. These include stimulants like amphetamines and methylphenidate as well as bupropion, as well non-stimulants like atomoxetine. Although they can be helpful for some, the majority of people with ADHD benefit more from lifestyle or psychotherapy.

Stress can be caused by ADHD symptoms, specifically the lack of focus and impulsivity. They can also increase the risk of anxiety and depression and make people more likely to seek out self-medication with alcohol or other drugs. This can lead to worsening of ADHD symptoms. People with ADHD typically need to be more efficient in meeting their goals at home and at work, which can lead to feelings of shame or guilt. This can result in tensions between family members and friends.

ADHD is not cureable, but the correct treatment can help you succeed at home and work. It can also help you turn your ADHD symptoms into benefits like being creative or having a strong memory.

Being diagnosed and diagnosed can be a challenge however, it's essential to find a doctor that understands your symptoms and can help you manage these. You should also find an aid group to get the help you require. The more you understand about your symptoms and the best way to deal with them, you will be better equipped to face the challenges of life. You'll also be more likely to have positive relationships with family, friends and co-workers.

Neurologists

Some people suffering from ADHD are not diagnosed until they reach adulthood. Some people do not even realize that they have ADHD. This can happen for many reasons. It is possible that symptoms were not noticed by parents or teachers during their childhood or they may not have received the support needed to thrive. Also, the comorbidity of other conditions such as depression or sleep disorders can mimic the symptoms of ADHD, making it difficult to differentiate one from the other.

It is crucial to select a healthcare professional who has expertise in diagnosing and treating ADHD among adults. A neurology specialist can offer comprehensive ADHD assessments and testing to determine the patient's cognitive abilities and psychosocial history, medical history and other variables.

Ask he has a good point for recommendations or check credentials with local neurology associations. Also, ensure that the neurologist you choose 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 will also be able to examine for other disorders that often coexist with ADHD. This includes sleeping disorders and learning disabilities. They can use electroencephalograms (EEG) to determine if a person is experiencing normal brain activity or if they have seizures, or a different neurological issue that needs to addressed to improve the effectiveness their ADHD treatment.

A neurologist can also provide psychotherapy to help adults with ADHD overcome their issues and build a positive self-perception. For example, they can teach strategies for managing time, plan tasks and keep things in order. They can assist people in learning to manage anger and frustration, as well as improve their relationships. They can also address 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 an amalgamation of medication, skill training and psychotherapy. However, it's important to find the right professional for you. Start by speaking with your primary health care provider or family physician who can assist you in starting on the right track. Additionally, many have found it helpful to seek out help from a counselor, therapist or coach.

When you're looking for an adult ADHD specialist, make sure to interview several potential providers. Make a list of symptoms and goals you wish to concentrate on in therapy, and inquire of potential specialists about their treatment approach. You can also ask about their qualifications and education, as well as if they have experience treating adults with ADHD.

A lot of psychologists are trained to diagnose and treatment of adults with ADHD. They can employ a variety of psychotherapy techniques including cognitive behavior therapy and inter-personal therapy. They may also employ mindfulness and relaxation techniques to enhance the capacity of the client to manage their own emotions and cope with symptoms. These strategies are especially beneficial for those who suffer from low self-esteem, negative thoughts and self-criticism.

Psychologists who specialize in adult ADHD are sometimes more attuned to the specific difficulties of adult ADHD than other mental health professionals. Additionally, they could be more knowledgeable about the ways that ADHD affects relationships as well as work performance.

In some states, psychologists may prescribe medications to their patients. They will refer patients who require psychiatric care to psychiatrists. The psychiatrists can diagnose ADHD as well as other psychiatric disorders typically associated with adult ADHD. They can diagnose depression, bipolar disorder and severe anxiety.

In general, it's recommended to look for an ADHD specialist within the larger medical practice. It's more convenient to have a psychiatrist, therapist, or counselor in the same place. It can also make it easier for you to communicate and exchange information with them. Additionally certain psychiatrists take an approach to family and are willing to see children and adults who are part of the same family.