Doctors That Treat ADHD in Adults
If you have ADHD, your doctor may recommend you to a mental health specialist. Psychologists and psychiatrists are the two major kinds of specialists who treat ADHD. Psychiatrists can prescribe medication.
Your psychologist may speak with your co-workers or supervisors, as well as your teachers, to learn about any issues you're experiencing at work or at school. They may also ask about your family history and use psychological tests.
Psychiatrists
Some psychiatrists have experience with treating adults with ADHD. However it is recommended to consult a specialist. If your local mental clinics or community centres offer referral services, then they may have a list of specialists in your region. You can also look online or ask your friends for recommendations. If you are insured, check to see which providers accept your plan.
A psychiatrist, also known as a Psychiatrist is a licensed physician who prescribes medication to treat a range of psychiatric disorders including ADHD. Psychiatrists are trained in differential diagnosis, and are able to identify the cause of symptoms and suggest appropriate treatment. They also treat comorbid disorders, such as depression, severe anxiety, bipolar disorder, or aggressive disorders, that co-occur with ADHD.
Adult ADHD is handled by psychologists who concentrate on the psychological aspect of the disorder. They assist patients in coping with their symptoms by using talk therapy. This can include cognitive behavioral therapy or a 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 teach patients strategies to improve their daily functioning, such as organizing methods or healthy habits linked to diet, exercise and sleep/wake routines.
Licensed Mental Health Counselors or Professional Counselors are mental health professionals with master's degrees who offer different types of talk therapy. LMHCs and LPCs are certified to conduct initial assessments and they can refer their clients for a more in-depth evaluation with a psychologist or psychiatrist. Therapists are also able to offer support groups or individual therapy for specific needs.
A psychiatrist can assist people with ADHD who have difficulties in their relationships. They can learn how to improve communication skills and resolve conflicts. Some psychiatrists offer family or marriage therapy. Some psychiatrists collaborate with a therapist, coach or a therapist specifically trained to assist ADHD patients.
When looking for a doctor who treats adult ADHD be sure to consider the unique circumstances and goals of your life. Create a list of your symptoms and the issues you want to address, and then locate a practitioner with expertise in these areas.
Family Physicians

Adults with ADHD are usually treated by family physicians. They'll ask about your symptoms, problems at work, school, or in relationships. They will also ask you about your medical history and they may look at the records from your childhood like report cards. They can help you manage ADHD by suggesting tools, accommodations or changes that will allow you to achieve and succeed as people without ADHD. These adjustments can be like an incline, which allows someone who is shorter to reach higher goals.
Many doctors believe that ADHD is due to an imbalance or lack of neurotransmitters. These are the chemicals that signal different parts of your body to function. In the end, these doctors may prescribe medication to restore the proper balance of neurotransmitters. These medications include stimulants such as amphetamines, methylphenidate and bupropion, and non-stimulants like atomoxetine. Although they can be beneficial, most people with ADHD benefit more from lifestyle or psychotherapy.
Stress can be triggered by ADHD symptoms, specifically inattention and impulsivity. They also make people more susceptible of anxiety or depression and increase their risk to self-medicating through alcohol or other drugs which can worsen their ADHD symptoms. People who suffer from ADHD typically need to be more efficient in meeting their goals at home and work, which can lead to feelings of guilt or shame. This can cause tension between family members and friends.
There is no cure for ADHD, but treatment can make it easier to achieve success both at work and at home. It can help you turn some ADHD symptoms into positives such as being highly creative or having a good memory.
Finding a doctor and getting diagnosed can be a challenge, but it's important to find a doctor that understands your symptoms and can assist you in managing them. You should also find a support network to get the help you require. The more you know about your symptoms and the best way to manage them, you will be better prepared to face life's challenges. You'll also be more likely to enjoy positive relationships with family members, friends and co-workers.
Neurologists
Some people with ADHD are not diagnosed until they reach adulthood. Many people are unaware that they suffer from ADHD. This can happen for many reasons. For instance, their symptoms may be overlooked in childhood because teachers or parents did not notice them or provided them with the environment they needed to flourish despite their symptoms. Or, the comorbidity with other disorders, like depression or sleeping disorders, can mimic the ADHD symptoms which makes it difficult to distinguish the two.
It's crucial to select the right healthcare professional with expertise in diagnosing and treating ADHD among adults. A neurology specialist can provide comprehensive ADHD assessments and testing to assess the patient's cognitive abilities, psychosocial context, medical history and other variables.
When choosing a neurologist, consult your primary care doctor for referrals or check with local neurology associations to verify credentials. Also, ensure that your neurologist is board-certified and experienced in treating adult ADHD patients. Choose a neurologist who communicates clearly and provides you with information about your treatment options.
A neurology specialist will also be able to look for other conditions that often coexist with ADHD. This includes learning disabilities and sleeping disorders. They can use electroencephalograms (EEG) to determine if a person has normal brain activity or if they have seizure disorder or other neurological issue, that must be addressed to improve the effectiveness their ADHD treatment.
A neurologist may also provide psychotherapy to help people suffering from ADHD overcome their issues and build a positive self-perception. For adhd treatment for adults without medication , they could teach strategies for managing time, plan tasks and remain organized. They can also assist individuals to learn to manage their anger, address their anger, and develop their interpersonal skills. Additionally, they can deal with negative self-talk that developed as a result of years of struggle with ADHD.
Psychologists
ADHD can be treated. The most effective treatments are often the combination of medication, skill-training, and psychotherapy. It is crucial to choose the right specialist. The best place to begin is with a primary care physician or family physician, who can help you begin on the path to treatment. Additionally, many have found it helpful to seek help from a counselor, therapist or coach.
When searching for an adult ADHD specialist, be sure to talk with several potential providers. Ask prospective specialists how they approach treatment. Create a list of your goals and symptoms that you'd like to focus on during therapy. You may also inquire about their education, training, and experience in treating adults with ADHD.
Many psychologists are certified in the diagnosis and treatment adult ADHD. They can employ various psychotherapy methods such as cognitive psychotherapy and interpersonal therapy. They can also employ mindfulness and relaxation techniques to increase the client's ability self-regulate, and cope with symptoms. These strategies are especially beneficial for those who suffer from low self-esteem, negative thinking, and self criticism.
Adult ADHD is a particular issue that can be more difficult to manage than other mental health issues. They may also be more aware of the ways ADHD affects work and relationships.
In certain states, psychologists are able to prescribe medication to their patients. However, they typically send patients in need of psychiatric intervention to psychiatrists. Psychiatrists are able to diagnose ADHD and may also assist clients suffering from other psychiatric issues that often co-occur with ADHD including bipolar disorder, depression and severe anxiety.
In general, it's a good idea to search for an ADHD specialist within an established medical practice. It's more convenient to have a therapist, psychiatrist or counselor in the same place. It also makes it easier to communicate and communicate with them. adhd treatment for older adults are family-oriented and will treat children as well as adults within the same household.