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Who Diagnoses ADHD? Psychologists counselors, therapists and counselors who are licensed to diagnose ADHD are also included on the list. Nurse practitioners and social workers can also conduct initial assessments and offer therapy, but they are not able to prescribe medication. Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD must exhibit more than five symptoms, that can cause problems at work or at school and are not explained by other mental disorders or mood disorders. Medical Doctor To make a correct diagnosis of ADHD requires a thorough evaluation. It should be done by an expert in mental health or a medical doctor who is certified to identify ADHD. Many healthcare professionals can carry out an ADHD assessment, such as nurses, family physicians and psychiatrists, neurologists or psychiatrists and master-level counselors with a degree in psychology or counseling. But the best method of diagnosing ADHD is a psychiatrist, particularly one who is experienced in treating patients with ADHD. The doctor or mental health professional will evaluate the patient and analyze the patient's symptoms, their history and how those symptoms affect the patient's life. The evaluator will compare the person's behavior with what is expected for their age. They will determine if the behavior can be explained by a different health issue, like physical or mental disease. For children the evaluator will talk to parents, teachers and any other caregivers who interact with the child, including coaches or day care providers. The evaluator will also go over the child's developmental and educational background. To be diagnosed with ADHD, children must have at least six symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity and/or the ability to be impulsive. The symptoms must be evident in more than one setting and cause problems in the workplace, home, school and social situations. Adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD will be asked to conduct similar interviews with their family members and friends and will be required to submit an extensive medical and mental health history. 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 individual's mood, medical history and other issues, like alcohol or drug use. In certain situations one might think that their general practitioner or primary care doctor is the best person to evaluate them for ADHD because they are familiar with his or her medical background. This is not always the best idea. People should think about whether they are comfortable discussing this problem with their physician and whether the PCP is confident in his ability to identify and rule out medical conditions that may mimic the symptoms of ADHD. Psychiatrist In some cases a primary care physician might be able diagnose ADHD in patients. These doctors are typically capable of assessing the situation and determine if medication is needed and recommend patients to a specialist who can assist with treatment. Other professionals who are able to diagnose ADHD include psychologists, psychiatrists and physician's assistants. In some instances the services of a neurologist are needed to evaluate the central nervous system and brain. A psychiatric assessment involves interviewing the patient, their parents and caregivers, evaluating school performance and medical history and completing mental health questionnaires and tests. A psychiatric specialist can suggest medical tests to rule out any other conditions or illnesses that may cause symptoms of ADHD. These include low birth weight, complications with delivery, environmental toxins in pregnancy or early exposures to alcohol and drugs. To be diagnosed with ADHD the person's symptoms must be evident in more than one setting like at home, at work, and in social activities. They must also be limiting the person's performance and not be attributed to other mental disorders or mood disorders such as Bipolar Disorder or depression. If ADHD symptoms affect the performance of a worker they may be qualified for reasonable accommodations. People suffering from ADHD may get help from a counselor or psychologist who holds a master's degree in counseling. These professionals can help people to recognize their symptoms and learn to deal with them. They can also provide emotional assistance and encourage. People who suffer from ADHD often feel considered unfit to concentrate and finish tasks, but obtaining a diagnosis can help them realize that it's not the fault of ADHD. It's crucial to select the right healthcare professional who is not judgmental, and willing to speak freely with the patient. It is also important to be aware of the knowledge and experience of the healthcare professional. If they appear to lack understanding of ADHD or consider it to be a minor condition, the patient may need to find a different doctor. Psychologist While they may have advanced degrees and are referred to as psychologists, psychologists specialize in mental health conditions such as ADHD. They are able to offer counseling and provide assessments that are based on expertise however they are not able to prescribe medications. They may ask to interview others, like teachers and parents, to get a better picture of the individual's experiences. They could also inquire about the person's current behavior. They will determine if symptoms have been present in the person since childhood, and if not, if they have only been present for the last six months. People who suspect they might have ADHD should speak with their primary care physician. While they may not be able to identify the problem, they can assist in referring patients to specialists who are able to. Patients should select specialists they are comfortable with and feel confident in their abilities. They should avoid a specialist who acts in a judgmental manner or ignores their concerns since they are not likely to provide the quality of care that is required. www.iampsychiatry.uk can diagnose and treat adults suffering from ADHD, including family physicians and psychiatrists. However, it is important to be aware of which specialists have the most experience in treating the disorder prior to making an appointment. It is also important to inform their doctor about any medication they are taking, especially sedatives and stimulants. These medications can cause dangerous adverse effects when they interact. A diagnosis of ADHD could trigger an array of emotions, such as relief and confusion. Anyone who is diagnosed should seek additional assistance from other members of their treatment team for example, educational specialists, speech and language therapists, and behavioral therapists. People suffering from ADHD often develop co-occurring conditions, such as bipolar disorder or depression (BD). BD and ADHD have many similar symptoms, so it's important to distinguish them in the course of evaluation. People suffering from BD may suffer from periods of extreme depression followed by episodes of mania. They might exaggerate their energy levels, be easily distracted, and forget appointments. Their doctor can refer them to mental health professionals that specialize in BD who can assist with diagnosis and treatment. Education Specialist It is essential to talk to a health care professional if you or your child are experiencing problems with hyperactivity, inattention, or impulsivity, which can be disruptive to school and at-home life. Primary health doctors, therapists and psychiatrists are all trained to diagnose ADHD. Based on the professional's education and credentials, they might be able provide psychotherapy. When diagnosing ADHD health experts look at a range of factors. They analyze the signs and their impact on the person's daily life, whether it is 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, a person must exhibit 6 or more symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity and the ability to be impulsive, as described in diagnostic criteria for children and teens. This is a rigorous procedure, and health professionals need to have as much information as they can to make the diagnosis. This includes direct information from the patient's parents teachers, caregivers, and other parents. It is crucial to assess the behavior of a teenager's or child in multiple settings, as symptoms may differ in different settings. When people are diagnosed with ADHD, they often realize that their struggles at work or at home aren't typical of their age or intelligence. The diagnosis is a relief since it indicates that the issues aren't due to lazyness or a lack of brainpower. They can be treated with medication and other options for treatment. Adults are more likely be diagnosed with ADHD when symptoms were present since the early years of childhood. This is due to the fact that it's thought that ADHD cannot develop at the beginning of adulthood. Some medical and mental illnesses, as well as major life events, can trigger symptoms that resemble ADHD. It's important to rule these out before making an official diagnosis. When selecting a healthcare professional to assess or treat your ADHD, it's best to solicit recommendations from family, relatives, friends and therapists you trust. It's also a good idea to do your research and find out more about the professional's qualifications and expertise. You might also want to inquire about the past clients and patients they have served.