Doctors That Treat ADHD in Adults
If you have ADHD Your doctor will likely refer you to a mental health specialist. The two main kinds of specialists who treat ADHD are psychiatrists and psychologists. Psychiatrists are able to prescribe medications.
Your specialist may interview your supervisors or coworkers as well as your teachers, to learn about any issues you're experiencing at work or at school. They could also inquire about your family history and may use psychological tests.
Psychiatrists
Certain psychiatrists have experience in treating adults suffering from ADHD. However, it is best to seek out a specialist. If your local mental health clinics or community centres offer referral services, they may have the names of specialists in your region. You can also ask your friends or browse the internet for recommendations. Check if your insurance plan is accepted by the providers.
A Psychiatrist, or psychiatrist is a licensed physician who can prescribe medication to treat a range of psychiatric disorders, such as ADHD. Psychiatrists typically have specialized training in differential diagnosis and are able to determine the root of your symptoms and recommend the appropriate treatment. They also treat comorbid disorders, including depression, anxiety that is severe, bipolar disorder, or aggressive disorders, which co-occur with ADHD.
Psychologists who treat adults with ADHD concentrate on the psychological aspect of the condition and work to help patients cope with their symptoms through talk therapy, often psychodynamic or cognitive therapy. They may 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 methods or healthy habits linked to diet, exercise, sleep/wake routines.
Licensed Mental Health Counselors or Professional Counselors (LMHC, LPC) are mental health professionals with a masters-level education and provide various kinds of therapy. LMHCs or LPCs can conduct initial assessments and recommend clients to a psychiatrist or psychologist for a more detailed evaluation. These therapists are also able to offer support sessions or individual therapy to meet specific needs.
A psychiatrist can assist people with ADHD who have issues with their relationships. They can learn to improve their communication skills and solve conflicts. Some psychiatrists offer family or marriage therapy. Some psychiatrists work with a coach, therapist or a therapist specially trained to work with ADHD patients.
When looking for a doctor who treats adult ADHD, consider the unique circumstances and goals you have set for your life. Make a list of the symptoms and concerns that you wish 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 discuss your symptoms and issues with school, work or relationships. They'll also inquire about your medical history and review any records from childhood like report cards. They can assist you in managing ADHD by offering tools, accommodations, or adjustments that will enable you to reach and succeed as people without ADHD. Consider these accommodations as a step that allows a smaller person to reach higher things.
Many doctors believe that ADHD is caused by a deficiency or imbalance of neurotransmitters. chemicals found in the brain that instruct various parts of the body to function. Doctors may prescribe medication to restore the balance of neurotransmitters. These include stimulants such as amphetamines, methylphenidate, and bupropion, and non-stimulants like atomoxetine. They can be helpful however most people suffering from ADHD benefit from therapy or lifestyle changes.
The symptoms of ADHD such as impulsivity and inattention, can result in stress. They can also increase the likelihood of anxiety and depression, and make people more likely to seek out self-medication with alcohol or drugs. This can lead to worsening of ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD are often required to work harder at home and at work to meet their goals which can cause them to feel ashamed or guilt. This can result in difficult relationships with family and friends.
ADHD is not treatable, but the right treatment can help you succeed at home and work. It can help turn ADHD symptoms into advantages like being more highly creative or having a good memory.

Finding a doctor who can understand your symptoms can be difficult, but you need to find a doctor who can help manage the symptoms. It's also crucial to find a support group so that you can get the help you require. The more you know about your symptoms and how to manage them, the better you'll be able to handle the challenges of life. You'll be more likely to have positive relationships with your family, friends and colleagues.
Neurologists
Some people suffering from ADHD are not diagnosed until they reach the age of adulthood. Others never learn that they have ADHD. This could be due to a variety of reasons. It is possible that symptoms were not noticed by parents or teachers during their childhood or they may not have received the support required to flourish. Or, the comorbidity of other conditions such as depression or sleep disorders can mimic the symptoms of ADHD which makes it difficult to differentiate one from the other.
It's important to choose a healthcare professional that has expertise in diagnosing and treating ADHD in adults. This includes neurology specialists who can conduct comprehensive ADHD testing and assessments to assess a patient's cognitive functioning medical history, as well as psychosocial context.
Ask your primary care doctor for recommendations or check credentials with local associations for neurology. It is also important to confirm that your neurologist is board certification and experience treating adults with ADHD. Find a neurologist who communicates clearly and offers information about your treatment options.
A neurology specialist can also assess for comorbid conditions that frequently are associated with ADHD like learning disabilities and sleep disorders. They can use electroencephalograms (EEG) to determine if a person has normal brain activity or if they have seizure disorder or a different neurological issue that must be treated to increase the effectiveness of their ADHD treatment.
A neuroscientist can also conduct psychotherapy to help adults who have ADHD manage their issues and build self-confidence. They can teach strategies for managing time, and help plan tasks and keep organized. They can help people learn to handle anger and frustration, as well as improve their relationships. In addition, they can deal with negative self-talk that been developed due to years of struggle with ADHD.
Psychologists
ADHD can be treated. The most effective treatments are often a combination of medication, skill training and psychotherapy. adhd treatment for adults without medication is essential to select the right specialist. You can start by consulting your primary health care provider or family physician who can help you begin on the right path. Many have discovered that it is beneficial to seek out help from an therapist, coach or counselor.
If you are looking for an adult ADHD specialist, be sure to speak with several potential providers. Make a list of symptoms and goals that you want to address in therapy, and inquire of potential specialists about their treatment approach. You could also inquire about their education, training and expertise in treating adults suffering from 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 behavioral therapy and interpersonal therapy. They may also employ relaxation and mindfulness techniques in order to improve the ability of the client to self-regulate and manage symptoms. These strategies are especially helpful for those who suffer from low self-esteem, negative thoughts, and self criticism.
Adult ADHD is a unique challenge that can be more difficult to manage than other mental health problems. They could also be more familiar with the way ADHD affects relationships at work and in the workplace.
In some states psychologists can prescribe medications for their patients. They will refer patients who require psychiatric care to psychiatrists. Psychiatrists are able to diagnose ADHD and other psychiatric disorders that are often associated with adult ADHD. These include bipolar disorder, depression and severe anxiety.
In general it is recommended to look for an ADHD specialist within an established medical practice. It's more convenient to have a therapist, psychiatrist, or counselor in the same location. It can also make it easier to communicate and exchange information with them. Some psychiatrists are family-oriented and will see both children and adults within the same household.