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Who Diagnoses ADHD? The licensed professionals who diagnose ADHD include doctors (particularly psychiatrists, family physicians and neurologists) psychologists, psychologists, and licensed counselors and therapists. Nurse practitioners and social workers also perform initial assessments and offer therapy but are not able prescribe medication. To be diagnosed with ADHD, adults must have more than five symptoms that cause impairment in work or school settings and that are not more easily explained by other mental health disorders or conditions. Medical Doctor To make a correct diagnosis of ADHD requires a thorough examination. This should be performed by a medical doctor or mental health professional who has been skilled in the diagnosis of ADHD. A variety of healthcare professionals can conduct an ADHD assessment, including family physicians, nurses as well as psychiatrists or neurologists, and master level counselors with a degree in psychology or counseling. The best way to determine ADHD is a psychiatrist particularly if they have prior experience treating ADHD patients. The doctor or mental healthcare professional will evaluate the patient and review the patient's symptoms and past. They will also look at how these symptoms impact the patient's life. The evaluator compares the person's behavior to what is normal for their age. The evaluator will also determine whether the symptoms are more easily explained by a different issue, like depression or a physical illness. For children the evaluator will speak with parents teachers, parents and any other caregivers who interact with the child, like coaches or day care providers. The evaluator will also review the child's developmental and educational history. To be diagnosed with ADHD a child must show six or more signs such as hyperactivity, inattention and/or impulsivity. The symptoms must be evident at least two times and cause impairments at school, home, the workplace and in social situations. Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD undergo similar interviews with their family members and colleagues as well as a thorough medical history and mental health. They will be asked how their symptoms have affected them and if they have experienced difficulties with their relationships, school or work. In addition, the mental health professional will evaluate the person's mood medical history and other issues, like drinking or using drugs. In certain situations one might think that their general practitioner or primary health care provider is the best person to evaluate them for ADHD because they are well-versed in their medical background. This is not always an ideal choice. It is important to consider whether the person is comfortable speaking to their doctor about this particular issue and also if they believe that the doctor can recognize and rule out any medical conditions that might be similar to the symptoms of ADHD. Psychiatrist In some instances a primary care physician may be able to identify ADHD in the patient. These doctors are typically competent to evaluate the situation and determine if medication is necessary and send patients to an expert who can help in the treatment. Other professionals who can diagnose ADHD include psychiatrists, psychologists nurses, physicians assistants. In some instances, a neurologist will be required to examine the central nervous system and the brain. A psychiatric assessment includes interviews with the patient as well as their parents and caregivers. It also involves evaluating school performance and medical and family histories and completing mental health questionnaires and tests. In addition, a psychiatrist specialist may recommend medical tests to rule out other diseases or conditions that may cause symptoms of ADHD such as low birth weight, complications during delivery and environmental toxins in the womb or early exposure to substances and alcohol. For a person to be diagnosed with ADHD, their symptoms must appear in at least two environments such as at home, work and social activities. They must also be limiting the person's functioning and cannot be attributed to other mental disorders or mood disorders, like depression or bipolar disorder. If ADHD symptoms impact a person's job performance they could be qualified for reasonable accommodations. People suffering from ADHD might be able to benefit from seeing an experienced psychologist or counselor who holds a master's degree in counseling. These professionals can assist patients to understand their symptoms and learn how to cope with them. They can also provide emotional support and encouragement. People with ADHD often feel like they're considered unfit to concentrate and complete tasks, but getting an diagnosis can help them realize it's not the fault of ADHD. When choosing the right healthcare professional, it's crucial to choose a person who isn't judgmental and willing to communicate with the patient in a transparent manner. Also, you should take into consideration the level of expertise and experience of the healthcare professional. If they view ADHD as a minor issue or aren't aware of it, the patient might require another doctor. Psychologist Psychologists are doctors who specialize in treating mental disorders like ADHD. They can provide counseling and provide assessments that are based on expertise however, they are not able prescribe medication. They can ask others to be interviewed, for instance teachers and parents, to gain a better understanding of the individual's experiences. They can also inquire about the person's behavior at present. They will determine if the symptoms have been present since childhood, and if not, if they have only been present for the past six months. People who suspect that they might have ADHD should consult their primary healthcare provider. They may not be able diagnose the condition but they may be able to refer you to specialists who are. It is important to choose professionals whom they feel confident and at ease. They should avoid specialists who are judgemental or dismiss their concerns as they won't provide the necessary care. Some healthcare providers like family physicians and psychiatrists, may be able to assess and treat adults suffering from ADHD. Before scheduling an appointment, it's crucial to determine which doctors are the most familiar with ADHD. Tell your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking, including sedatives and stimulating drugs. These medications may interact with each other, resulting in dangerous side effects. A diagnosis of ADHD can bring a variety of emotions, including relief and confusion. People who receive a diagnosis need to seek additional help from other members of their treatment team such as educational specialists speech and language therapists, and behavioral therapists. People suffering from ADHD are more likely to develop co-occurring disorders, like bipolar disorder or depression. adhd diagnosis in adults and ADHD share many symptoms, so it is important to differentiate them in the course of assessment. For instance, people with BD will often have periods of extreme depression, followed by episodes of mania. They may overly exaggerate their energy levels, be easily distracted, and may forget appointments. They may be referred to mental health specialists who specialize in BD to assist with diagnosis and treatment. Education Specialist It is essential to talk with a health professional in the event that you or your child is having trouble with hyperactivity, inattention or the tendency to be impulsive, which can be disruptive to school and family life. Health professionals who are certified to diagnose ADHD include primary care physicians psychiatrists, therapists, and psychologists. Depending on the professional's qualifications and experience, they might also be able provide treatments such as psychotherapy. When determining ADHD health professionals look at a number of factors. They analyze the signs and their impact on a person's daily functioning whether at home, at the classroom, at work or in relationships. They also consider the person's previous symptoms and the family history of ADHD. To be diagnosed with ADHD the person must exhibit at least six or more signs of hyperactivity, inattention, or the ability to be impulsive, as described in the diagnostic criteria for adolescents and children. This is a rigorous process, which is why health professionals need to have as much information as they can to establish the diagnosis. This includes direct information from the person's parents and teachers, as well as other caregivers. It is crucial to assess the behavior of a teenager's or child in a variety of settings, since symptoms may differ in different situations. If someone is diagnosed with ADHD they are often able to see that their issues at work or home are not typical of their age and intelligence. The diagnosis is a relief because it demonstrates that the issues are not due to laziness or a lack in brain power. They can be addressed with medication and other options for treatment. Health professionals in adulthood are more likely to diagnose ADHD when the symptoms have been present since the age of. This is due to the belief that ADHD is not a condition that can be detected until adulthood. However, certain mental and medical illnesses and major life events may cause symptoms that resemble ADHD, so it's important to identify other causes prior to making the diagnosis. It's best to ask trusted friends or family members, as well as therapists for recommendations when selecting an expert in health care who can evaluate or treat ADHD. It's also a good idea to do your research and learn more about the credentials of the practitioner and expertise. You might also consider asking about their previous clients and patients.