Doctors That Treat ADHD in Adults
If you suffer from adult ADHD, your doctor may recommend you to a mental health professional. Psychologists and psychiatrists are the two major types of professionals who treat ADHD. Psychiatrists are able to prescribe medications.
Your specialist may interview your co-workers or supervisors, as well as your teachers, to find out about any issues you're having at work or in school. They might also inquire about your family history and use psychological tests.
Psychiatrists
Some psychiatrists are experienced in treating adults with ADHD However, it is best to find an expert. If your local mental health clinics or community centers offer referral services, they could have lists of specialists in the region. You can also look online or ask friends for suggestions. If you have insurance look up which companies will accept your plan.
A Psychiatrist is a doctor who is licensed to prescribe medication for a range of psychiatric conditions such as ADHD. Psychiatrists are trained to make differential diagnosis, and are able to determine the cause of symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment. They also treat comorbid conditions, such as depression or severe anxiety bipolar disorders, aggressive disorders that occur in conjunction with ADHD.
Psychologists who treat adults with ADHD concentrate on the psychological side of the disorder and work to help patients manage their symptoms through talks therapy, usually psychodynamic or cognitive therapy. They may not be able prescribe medications, but they can work with an ADHD medical professional or psychiatrist to oversee the patient's treatment plan. They can teach patients how to improve their daily functioning. This includes organizing techniques such as healthy habits, eating habits, exercise and schedules for sleep and wake, or strategies for organizing.
Licensed Mental health counselors or Professional Counselors are mental health professionals who have master's degrees who offer different types of therapy. LMHCs or LPCs can conduct initial assessments and recommend clients to a psychologist or psychiatrist for a more detailed evaluation. These therapists can also provide support sessions or individual therapy to meet specific requirements.
Many people with ADHD encounter difficulties in their relationships. A psychiatrist can help them develop abilities to improve communication and solve conflicts. Some psychiatrists offer marriage or family therapy. Others will collaborate with a coach or specialist therapist who has been specifically trained in working with ADHD patients to ensure their patients receive comprehensive behavioral support alongside their medication.
Be aware of your unique circumstances and goals when searching for a doctor who can treat adult ADHD. Make a list of your symptoms and the issues you wish to address and then search for a practitioner who has prior experience in these areas.
Family Physicians

Family doctors are the most popular healthcare providers who treat ADHD in adults. They'll ask you about your symptoms, issues at work, school, or in relationships. They'll also ask about your medical history and review any childhood records, such as report cards. They can assist you with managing ADHD by suggesting tools, accommodations or modifications that enable you to reach and be successful as those with ADHD. Consider these accommodations as a step stool that allows a shorter person to achieve greater heights.
Many doctors believe that ADHD is due to a lack or imbalance of neurotransmitters. chemicals found in the brain that instruct different parts of the body to function. Doctors may prescribe medication to restore the balance of neurotransmitters. These medications include stimulants such as amphetamines, methylphenidate, as well as non-stimulants, including atomoxetine and bupropion. They can be helpful, but most people with ADHD prefer counseling or lifestyle modifications.
The symptoms of ADHD, especially inattention and impulsivity, can cause stress. They can also increase the risk of depression and anxiety, and cause people to be more likely to seek out self-medication with alcohol or drugs. This can worsen ADHD symptoms. People with ADHD are often required to work harder at home and at work to meet their goals which can cause them to feel shame or guilt. This can lead to tension between family members and friends.
There is no cure for ADHD but treatment can help you to achieve success at work and at home. It can even assist you in turning some of your ADHD symptoms into advantages for example, being creative or having a great memory.
Finding a doctor and getting treated can be difficult and stressful, but it's crucial to find a doctor who understands your symptoms and can assist you in managing these. It is also important to find an aid group to get the assistance you need. Read the Full Article understand about your symptoms and the best way to manage them, the better off you'll be able to deal with the challenges of life. You'll also be more likely to maintain positive relationships with family, friends and co-workers.
Neurologists
Many people with ADHD don't get diagnosed until adulthood, and some never realize they suffer from the condition in the first place. This can be due to various reasons. It is possible that symptoms were not noticed by teachers or parents during their childhood or they may not have received the assistance required to flourish. Or, the co-morbidity of other illnesses like depression or sleep disorders can be similar to the symptoms of ADHD which makes it difficult to distinguish one from the other.
It's crucial to select an expert in healthcare who has experience in diagnosing and treating ADHD among adults. A neurology specialist can provide thorough ADHD tests and assessments to determine the patient's cognitive abilities, psychosocial context, medical history and other variables.
When choosing a neurologist, consult your primary physician for recommendations or consult with local neurology associations to confirm credentials. It is important to ensure that your doctor has expertise and board certification, as well as experience in treating adult ADHD. Select a neurologist who communicates clearly and provides details about the treatment options available to you.
A specialist in neurology will also be able to assess for other conditions that are often associated with ADHD. This includes sleeping disorders and learning disabilities. They can employ electroencephalograms (EEG) to determine if a person is experiencing normal brain activity or if there's seizures, or a different neurological issue that needs to treated to increase the effectiveness of their ADHD treatment.
A neurologist can also provide psychotherapy to help adults who have ADHD manage their issues and build self-confidence. For instance, they can teach strategies to manage time, plan tasks, and stay organized. They can help people learn to handle anger and frustration and also improve their relationships. They can also help 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, training for skills, and psychotherapy. It is important to choose the right doctor for you. It's best to start by talking with your primary care physician or family doctor who can help you get started on the right track. In addition, many people have found it helpful to seek advice from a therapist, counselor, or coach.
When searching for an adult ADHD specialist, be sure to interview several potential providers. 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 education, training, and experiences in treating adults with ADHD.
A lot of psychologists have training in the diagnosis and treatment of adult ADHD. They can employ a variety of psychotherapy techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy and inter-personal therapy. They may also utilize mindfulness and relaxation techniques to enhance a client's capacity to self-regulate and cope with their symptoms. These strategies are particularly beneficial for adults who experience difficulty with self-esteem, negative self-talk, and self-criticism.
Psychologists who specialize in adult ADHD are often more attentive to the specific challenges of adult ADHD than other mental health professionals. They might be more knowledgeable about the ways ADHD affects relationships and work.
In some states psychologists can prescribe medication to their patients. However, they typically send patients in need of psychotherapeutic intervention to psychiatrists. 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 an ideal idea to search for an ADHD specialist within an established medical practice. It's more convenient to have a psychiatrist, therapist, or counselor in the same location. It also makes it easier for you to communicate and exchange information with them. Some psychiatrists are family-oriented and will treat children as well as adults in the same family.