10 Wrong Answers To Common Doctors That Treat ADHD In Adults Questions Do You Know The Correct Answers?
Doctors That Treat ADHD in Adults
If you have ADHD, your doctor is likely to recommend you to a mental health professional. The two main types of specialists that treat ADHD are psychiatrists and psychologists. Psychologists are able to prescribe medications.
Your doctor may ask questions of your co-workers or supervisors, as and your teachers, to learn about any problems you are experiencing at work or at school. They might also inquire about your family history and conduct psychological tests.
Psychiatrists
Certain psychiatrists have experience in treating adults with ADHD. However it is advisable to consult 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 ask your family or friends for recommendations or search online for recommendations. If you are insured make sure you know which providers accept your plan.
A psychiatrist, also known as a psychiatrist, is a licensed physician who can prescribe medication to treat a variety of psychiatric disorders including ADHD. They are trained in differential diagnosis, and can determine the cause of symptoms and recommend the appropriate treatment. They also treat comorbid disorders, like anxiety disorders or depression bipolar disorders, aggressive disorders that co-occur along with ADHD.
Adult ADHD is treated by psychologists who focus on the psychological aspects of the condition. They assist patients in coping with their symptoms by using talk therapy. This could be cognitive behavioral therapy or a psychodynamic therapy. They might not be able to prescribe medication, but they can coordinate with an ADHD Psychiatrist or medical doctor to oversee a patient's entire treatment plan. They can teach patients strategies that improve their daily functioning, including organizational techniques or healthy habits related to exercise, diet and sleep/wake routines.
Licensed Mental Health Counselors or Professional Counselors (LMHC, LPC) are mental health professionals with a masters-level education and provide different types of talk 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 offer support sessions and individual therapy to address specific needs.
Many people with ADHD have issues in their relationships, and a psychiatrist can help them develop abilities to improve communication and solve conflicts. Some psychiatrists provide marriage or family therapy. Some psychiatrists collaborate with a therapist, coach or a therapist who is specifically trained to work with ADHD patients.
Consider your unique life circumstances and goals when looking for a doctor who can treat adult ADHD. Make an inventory of your symptoms and the problems you'd like to address, then look for an expert with experience in those areas.
Family Physicians

Adults with ADHD are usually treated by family physicians. They'll ask you about your symptoms, problems at work, school or in relationships. They'll also ask you about your medical history, and may also look over the records from your childhood like 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. These adjustments can be compared to the step stool, which allows someone who is shorter to achieve higher goals.
Many doctors believe that ADHD is caused by a shortage or imbalance in neurotransmitters, chemicals found in the brain that instruct different organs of the body to function. Doctors may prescribe medication to restore the balance of neurotransmitters. These medications include stimulants like amphetamines, methylphenidate and bupropion, as well non-stimulants like atomoxetine. Although they can be helpful for some, the majority of people with ADHD benefit more from psychotherapy or lifestyle modifications.
Stress can be triggered by ADHD symptoms, including the lack of focus and impulsivity. They can also increase the risk of anxiety and depression, and cause people to be more likely to seek out self-medication with alcohol or other drugs. This can actually worsen ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD are often required to work harder at home and at work to meet expectations and this can cause them to feel embarrassed or guilt. This can result in strained relationships between family members and friends.
ADHD isn't treatable, but the right treatment can make you more successful in your work and at home. It can even help you turn some of your ADHD symptoms into advantages for example, being creative or having a great memory.
Finding a doctor that understands your symptoms can be difficult however, you must locate a doctor who can assist you to manage the symptoms. It's also crucial to join a support group so that you can get the help you need. The more you know about your symptoms and the best ways to manage them, you'll be better prepared to face the challenges of life. You'll be more likely to enjoy positive relationships with your family, friends, and co-workers.
Neurologists
Some people with ADHD are not diagnosed until they reach adulthood. Others never learn that they suffer from ADHD. This can happen for many reasons. Symptoms may have been overlooked by teachers or parents in childhood or they might not have received the assistance required to flourish. Also, the comorbidity of other conditions like depression or sleep disorders can be similar to the symptoms of ADHD, making it difficult to distinguish one from the other.
It is important to choose an expert in healthcare who is experienced in diagnosing and treating ADHD in adults. A neurology specialist can provide complete ADHD assessments and testing to evaluate the patient's cognitive function as well as psychosocial history, medical history and other variables.
Ask your primary physician for recommendations or check credentials with local associations for neurology. It is also important to confirm that your neurologist has the board certification and has experience treating adults with ADHD. Find a neurologist who communicates clearly and offers details about the treatment options available to you.
A specialist in neurology can also assess for comorbid disorders that often coexist with ADHD, such as sleep disorders and learning disabilities. treatment for adhd in adults can employ electroencephalograms (EEG) to determine if a person has normal brain activity or if they have seizures, or another neurological issue which needs to be treated to increase the effectiveness of their ADHD medication.
A neuroscientist can also conduct psychotherapy to help adults who have ADHD cope with their difficulties and develop positive self-perception. They can teach strategies for managing time, assist organize tasks and stay organized. They can help people learn to manage anger and frustration and improve their relationships. They can also address negative self-talk developed over years of dealing with ADHD.
Psychologists
ADHD can be treated. The most effective treatment options are usually a combination of medication, training for skills and psychotherapy. It's important to choose the right specialist. You can start by consulting your primary health care provider or family physician, who will help you get started on the right path. Many have discovered that it is beneficial to seek help from an therapist, coach or counselor.
If you are looking for an adult ADHD specialist, make sure to interview various potential providers. Ask potential specialists how they approach treatment. Make a list of symptoms and goals you'd like to focus on in therapy. You can also inquire about their education and training, and if they have expertise in treating adults with ADHD.
Many psychologists are trained in the diagnosis and treatment adult ADHD. They may use a range of psychotherapy methods like cognitive behavioral therapy and inter-personal therapy. They may also employ mindfulness and relaxation techniques to enhance the ability of the client to self-regulate and manage symptoms. These strategies can be particularly beneficial for those who suffer from issues with self-esteem, negative self talk, and self-criticism.
Psychologists who specialize in adult ADHD are sometimes more attuned to the particular difficulties of adult ADHD than other mental health professionals. They may also be more aware of the ways ADHD affects relationships at work and in the workplace.
In some states psychologists can prescribe medication for their patients. However, they will usually send patients in need of psychotherapeutic treatment to psychiatrists. Psychiatrists are able to diagnose ADHD and other psychiatric disorders commonly associated with adult ADHD. These include bipolar disorder, depression and severe anxiety.
It is best to find an ADHD specialist in a larger medical practice. This can provide the convenience of having a psychologist, psychiatrist or counselor all in one location and can make it easier to communicate with the other about each other's treatment. Some psychiatrists are family-oriented, and will see both children and adults within the same household.