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Who Diagnoses ADHD? Professionals who are licensed to diagnose ADHD include physicians (particularly psychiatrists, family physicians and neurologists) psychologists, psychologists, and licensed counselors and therapists. Nurse practitioners and social workers also can perform initial assessments and offer therapy but cannot prescribe medication. Adults who are diagnosed with ADHD must show more than five symptoms, that can cause problems at work or in school and cannot be explained by other mental disorders or mood disorders. Medical Doctor A thorough examination is required to determine the exact diagnosis of ADHD. This should be performed by a psychiatrist or a mental health professional experienced in diagnosing ADHD. Many healthcare professionals can carry out an ADHD assessment, including family physicians, nurses and psychiatrists, neurologists or psychiatrists and master level counselors who have a degree in counseling or psychology. However, the best option to diagnose ADHD could be a psychiatrist, particularly one who has experience in treating patients suffering from ADHD. The doctor or mental health professional will evaluate the patient and look into his or her symptoms and past. They will also examine how these symptoms affect the patient's life. The examiner will compare the individual's behavior to the expectations of the person's age. They will also determine if the symptoms can be explained better by another condition, such as depression or physical illness. For children the evaluator will talk to parents teachers, parents and any other caregivers who interact with the child, such as coaches or day care providers. The evaluator also reviews the child's development and educational background. In order to be diagnosed with ADHD children must exhibit 6 or more symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention and/or the ability to be impulsive. The symptoms must be evident at least twice and result in impairments at school, home or at work and in social settings. Adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD will undergo similar discussions with family members and colleagues, as well as an extensive medical and mental health history. They will also be asked to write about how the symptoms have affected their lives, and if they have interfered with relationships, work or school. The mental health professional will also examine the person's mood, medical history as well as other issues like alcohol or drug use. In some instances one might think that their primary or general health care provider is the best choice to test them for ADHD because they are familiar with their medical background. This isn't always a good idea. It is important to consider whether the person is comfortable speaking to their doctor regarding this particular issue, and also if they believe that the PCP is able to identify and rule out any medical condition that may be a cause of ADHD. Psychiatrist In some instances a primary care physician might be able to identify ADHD in a patient. These doctors are usually competent to evaluate the situation, determine if medication is necessary and recommend patients to an expert who can help with treatment. Other professionals who can diagnose ADHD include psychiatrists, psychologists nurses, physicians' assistants. In certain cases the services of a neurologist are needed to evaluate the central nervous system and the brain. A psychiatric evaluation includes interviewing the patient, parents and caregivers, evaluating the student's performance, medical and family history and completing mental health questionnaires and tests. In addition, a psychiatric specialist may recommend medical testing to rule out any other illnesses or conditions that could cause symptoms of ADHD, such as low birth weight, complications during the delivery, environmental toxins in the womb, or early childhood exposure to drugs and alcohol. To be diagnosed with ADHD, their symptoms must be evident in at least two different settings, including at home, work, and social activities. They must also be limiting the person’s functioning and not be attributed to other mental disorders or mood disorders such as depression or Bipolar Disorder. If the symptoms of ADHD impact a person's ability to perform their job, they're qualified for reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act. A psychologist or counselor who has an advanced degree in counseling may be able to aid those suffering from ADHD. They can assist people in understanding their symptoms and teach how to manage these symptoms. They also offer emotional assistance and encouragement. People with ADHD often feel like they're considered unfit to concentrate and complete tasks, but getting a diagnosis can help them realize that it's not their fault. It is essential to choose an individual who is not judgmental, and who is able to communicate openly with the patient. It is also important to be aware of the knowledge and experience of the healthcare professional. If they view ADHD as a minor issue or aren't aware of it, the patient might need to find another doctor. Psychologist Psychologists are doctors who specialize in treating mental disorders like ADHD. They can provide therapies and offer expert assessments however, they are not able prescribe medication. They may ask to interview other people, such as teachers and parents to gain a more complete understanding of the person's life. They also may ask questions about the person's present behavior. They will try to determine if symptoms have been present since childhood and in the event that they have not, whether they've been present for the last six months. Anyone who suspects that they might have ADHD should speak with their primary care doctor. They might not be able to identify the problem, but they can refer you to specialists who are. It is important to choose professionals whom they feel secure and at ease. They should avoid a specialist who behaves judgmentally or dismisses their concerns since they are unlikely to provide the level of care required. Certain healthcare professionals such as family doctors and psychiatrists, can evaluate and treat adults suffering from ADHD. Before scheduling an appointment, it's crucial to determine which doctors are the most familiar in treating ADHD. Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking including sedatives as well as stimulating drugs. These drugs can trigger dangerous side effects if they interact. A diagnosis of ADHD may bring about an array of emotions, including relief and confusion. Anyone who is diagnosed should seek additional assistance from other members of their treatment team like educational specialists, speech and language therapists, and behavioral therapists. People suffering from ADHD are more likely to develop co-occurring disorders, such as depression or bipolar disorder. BD and ADHD have a number of symptoms in common which is why it is essential to differentiate them during evaluation. Individuals with BD may suffer from periods of extreme depression that are followed by episodes mania. They may overly exaggerate their energy levels, become easily distracted, and forget appointments. Their doctor can refer them to mental health professionals that specialize in BD who can help with diagnosis and treatment. Educational Specialist If your child or you seems to have trouble with hyperactivity, inattention, or impulsivity that can be disruptive to school and at home it is important to discuss the issue with a healthcare professional. diagnosing adhd uk , therapists and psychiatrists are all trained to diagnose ADHD. Based on their training and credentials, they might be able provide psychotherapy. When diagnosing ADHD, health specialists look at a variety of factors. They assess the symptoms and how they impact the person's everyday functioning in several situations, such as at home, school, work and in relationships. They also look at the person's history of symptoms as well as any family history of ADHD. To be diagnosed with ADHD, a person must show 6 or more symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity and an impulsive behavior, as defined in the diagnostic criteria for children and teens. This is a lengthy procedure, and health professionals must have as much information as they can to determine the diagnosis. This includes information directly from teachers, parents and other caregivers. It is crucial to assess the behavior of a teenager's or child in a variety of settings, since the symptoms can differ across settings. Often, people who get diagnosed with ADHD discover that they struggle at work or at home in ways that aren't typical for their intelligence and age. Diagnosis is a relief, since it means that the issues aren't due to lack of focus or insufficient of brain power and can be treated with medication and other treatments. Adults are more likely be diagnosed with ADHD when symptoms were present since the early years of childhood. It's because it is believed that ADHD is not diagnosed until adulthood. However, certain mental health and medical conditions and major life events can produce symptoms that resemble ADHD and it's crucial to determine the cause before making an assessment. It's best to ask your trusted friends, family members and therapists for recommendations when selecting an expert in health care who can evaluate or treat ADHD. You should also do your research and learn about the professional's qualifications and experience. You might even consider asking about their previous clients and patients.