Doctors That Treat ADHD in Adults
If you are diagnosed with adult ADHD, you will likely be referred to a mental health professional by your physician. The two main kinds of specialists who treat ADHD are psychiatrists and psychologists. Psychiatrists are able to prescribe medication.
Your doctor may speak with coworkers as well as teachers, supervisors and coworkers to find out about your school or work problems. They could also inquire about your family background and may use psychological tests.
Psychiatrists
Certain psychiatrists have experience in treating adults with ADHD. However it is recommended 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 ask your friends or search online for recommendations. If you are insured make sure you know which companies will accept your plan.
A Psychiatrist is a physician who is licensed to prescribe medication for a range of mental disorders, 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 comorbid disorders, like depression or severe anxiety, bipolar disorders, or aggressive disorders that co-occur along with ADHD.
Psychologists who treat adult ADHD focus on the psychological aspect of the condition and work to assist patients in coping with their symptoms by using talk therapy, which is often called psychodynamic or cognitive therapy. They might not be able to prescribe medication, but they are able to work with an ADHD medical professional or psychiatrist to oversee the patient's complete treatment plan. They can guide patients on how to improve their daily functioning. This can include organizing techniques and healthy habits that are related to diet, exercise and schedules for sleep and wake, or methods for organizing.
Licensed Mental Health Counselors or Professional Counselors (LMHC, LPC) are mental health professionals with completed a masters degree and are able to provide various kinds of talk therapy. LMHCs and LPCs are qualified 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 and individual therapy for specific needs.
Many people who suffer from ADHD have issues in their relationships, and a psychiatrist can assist them in developing skills to improve communication and solve conflicts. Some psychiatrists provide family or marriage counseling. Some psychiatrists work with a coach, therapist or a therapist who is specially trained to assist ADHD patients.
If you are looking for a doctor that treats adults with ADHD, consider the unique circumstances and goals you have set for your life. Make an inventory of your symptoms as well as the issues you wish to address, then look for an expert who has expertise in these areas.
Family Physicians

Adults suffering from ADHD are usually treated by family doctors. They'll discuss with you your symptoms and problems with school, work or relationships. They'll also inquire about your medical history and examine any childhood records like report cards. They can also assist you to manage your ADHD by suggesting accommodations, tools or changes that allow you to succeed and reach your goals like people who do not have ADHD. Think of check out your url as a step-stool that allows a smaller person to reach higher things.
Many doctors believe that ADHD is due to an imbalance or lack of neurotransmitters. These are the chemicals that allow various parts of your body to function. As a result, these doctors may prescribe medications to restore the balance of neurotransmitters. These medications include stimulants such as amphetamines and methylphenidate, and non-stimulants, including atomoxetine and bupropion. Although they can be helpful but the majority of people suffering from ADHD benefit more from psychotherapy or lifestyle modifications.
Stress can be caused by ADHD symptoms, specifically the lack of focus and impulsivity. They can also put people at risk of anxiety or depression and make them more prone to self-medicating with alcohol or other drugs which can exacerbate their ADHD symptoms. People who suffer from ADHD are often forced to perform more at home and at work to meet expectations which can cause them to feel embarrassed or guilt. This can cause tension between family members and friends.
There is no cure for ADHD but treatment can help you to succeed at work and at home. It can help you turn some ADHD symptoms into benefits like being more highly creative or having a good memory.
Getting diagnosed and treated can be hard, but it's important to find a doctor who understands your symptoms and can assist you in managing these. It's also crucial to find a support organization to get the help you need. The more you know about your symptoms and the best methods to deal with them, you will be better equipped to face the challenges of life. You'll also be more likely to enjoy positive relationships with family, coworkers and friends.
Neurologists
Many people suffering from ADHD don't get diagnosed until they reach adulthood and some don't find out they are suffering from the condition in the first place. This can be due to a variety of reasons. The symptoms may have been ignored by parents or teachers during their childhood or they might not have received the help needed to thrive. Also, the comorbidity of other disorders, like sleep disorders or depression, may resemble the ADHD symptoms and make it difficult to distinguish between the two.
It is important to choose an expert in healthcare who has expertise in diagnosing and treating ADHD in adults. This includes a neurology specialist who can conduct thorough ADHD testing and assessments to assess a patient's cognitive functioning, medical history, and psychosocial context.
When selecting a neurologist consult your primary care doctor for referrals or check with local associations of neurologists to verify credentials. It is also important to ensure that the neurologist you choose is board-certified and has experience in treating adult ADHD patients. Choose a neurologist who speaks clearly and provides you with details on the treatment options available.
A neurology expert can also evaluate for comorbid conditions that frequently are associated with ADHD, such as sleep disorders and learning disabilities. They can use electroencephalogram (EEG) tests to determine if the brain activity of a patient is normal or if they have a seizure-related disorder or other neurological issue that should be addressed to improve the effectiveness of their ADHD treatment.
A neurologist can also offer psychotherapy to help adults with ADHD overcome their challenges and build a positive self-perception. They can provide strategies for managing time, assist to plan out tasks and keep things in order. They can also help individuals learn to tolerate frustration and address their anger and develop their interpersonal skills. They can also help address the negative self-talk developed over years 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 essential to select the right doctor. The best place to begin is with a primary care physician or family physician, who can get you started on the treatment path. Many people have also discovered it beneficial to seek assistance from coaches, therapists, or counselor.
When you're looking for an adult ADHD specialist, make sure to interview several potential providers. Ask potential specialists about how they approach treatment. Create a list of the symptoms you'd like to focus on in therapy. You can also inquire about their education and training, and if they have prior experience treating adults suffering from ADHD.
A lot of psychologists have training in the diagnosis and treatment of adult ADHD. They may use a range of psychotherapy techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy and inter-personal therapy. They can also employ relaxation and mindfulness techniques to enhance the ability of the client to self-regulate and cope with symptoms. These techniques can be especially beneficial for adults who experience issues 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 may also be more familiar with the way ADHD affects work and relationships.
In some states psychologists are permitted to prescribe medication for their patients. They will refer patients in need of psychiatric treatment to psychiatrists. Psychiatrists can diagnose ADHD as well as other disorders of the psyche that are often associated with adult ADHD. They can diagnose bipolar disorder, depression and severe anxiety.
In general it's an ideal idea to search for an ADHD specialist within a larger medical practice. It's beneficial to have a psychiatrist, therapist or counselor in the same place. It also makes it easier to communicate and communicate with them. Some psychiatrists are family-oriented, and will treat children as well as adults in the same family.