Finding An ADHD Psychiatrist Near Me For Evidence-Based Mental Health Treatment
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects millions of children and adults worldwide. While there is no cure, an effective psychiatric treatment plan may help individuals manage their ADHD symptoms to reduce their impact on their relationships and daily life. Learn how to find a local ADHD psychiatrist and other specialists to receive support in managing the disorder.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder and a form of neurodivergence typically presenting through inattentive, impulsive, or hyperactive characteristics. Symptoms begin in childhood and continue throughout life, though symptoms often decrease in adulthood. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), people with ADHD may have trouble with focus, organization, realistic planning, thinking before acting or speaking, adapting to changes in a new situation, being noisy, fidgeting, defiance, aggression, and social difficulties. It's important to note that not everyone with an ADHD diagnosis will experience these issues, and not everyone with these traits has ADHD.
Behavioral health therapy, medication management, and other treatments
Treatment for ADHD typically consists of therapy, medication, or a combination of both. Behavioral therapy may alleviate the mental, practical, and behavioral challenges of ADHD. A therapist can help clients develop useful organizational skills, provide them with emotional support, and work with them to address any co-occurring mental health conditions. Medication may also be recommended by an individual’s doctor for symptom relief, improving focus, emotional control, and other concerns when clinically appropriate. Consult a healthcare professional before starting, changing, or stopping any medication.
Medication management, covered by insurance
$20 average copay with insurance*
Connect with a psychiatrist*Medication is prescribed only when clinically appropriate and is not guaranteed. Pricing, availability, insurance coverage, and copays vary by plan, location, and provider availability are not guaranteed.
Whether you’re looking for adult ADHD treatment, parent training and therapy, or treatment for your child, finding a specialist may seem overwhelming. However, with an idea of what you need and some research, finding the right ADHD mental health professional may be easier than you think. To start, you can discuss your concerns with your doctor to see if you or your child may benefit from psychological testing. An evaluation may include a medical exam to rule out other causes and a series of tests to determine if ADHD is present.
If you or a loved one is diagnosed with ADHD, it can be helpful to educate yourself about ADHD.
Below are some ADHD presentations to consider when looking for a specialist:
- Predominantly inattentive presentation: Symptoms center on inattention.
- Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation: Symptoms center on hyperactivity and impulsivity.
- Combined presentation: Symptoms involve inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
ADHD specialties
Once you have an ADHD diagnosis and know the ADHD presentation, who do you talk to next? According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), various professionals have specialized credentials and experience to support clients with ADHD. Depending on your needs, you might see one of the following ADHD specialists.
Pediatrician
Your child’s pediatrician is a specialist in child and adolescent health and may be able to provide medical treatment for ADHD. However, in some cases, ADHD requires additional services. In those cases, your pediatrician may refer you to the appropriate professional.
Psychiatrist
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who may prescribe medication and may also provide therapy, depending on their practice. For some people with ADHD, a psychiatrist can be an integral part of the treatment team. These professionals can help evaluate symptoms, support treatment planning, and address emotions and behavior patterns through therapy or medication management when clinically appropriate.
Psychologist
Psychologists hold doctoral degrees but are not medical doctors. They can provide a variety of therapy treatments, but generally do not prescribe medication. Psychologists can help you learn to cope with and manage ADHD symptoms.
30,000+ therapists with diverse specialties
ADHD coach
An ADHD coach is trained to help people with the disorder learn to manage daily life so they can work toward their goals. A coach can offer guidance and support while helping you or your child stay on track toward your desired objectives. However, a coach is not a doctor or therapist and is not qualified to offer medical or mental health treatment.
Counselors, clinicians, and therapists
These mental health professionals have a master’s-level education and can provide various therapy treatments to help clients manage ADHD symptoms and stress.
Pediatric neurologist
Neurologists specialize in brain disorders commonly seen in children. These doctors are able to evaluate ADHD and address how ADHD affects brain function, they can also refer you to another specialist for ongoing treatment.
Psychiatric nurse practitioner
Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners are professionals who can evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients. Though most nursing professionals have not completed medical school, nurse practitioners may be able to prescribe medication when providing psychiatric care, depending on state law and scope of practice.
Other professionals who treat ADHD
Below are some other mental and physical health professionals who may be able to help you manage the symptoms of ADHD:
- Family physicians
- Social workers
- Case managers
Where should you look for ADHD treatment options?
Some communities have limited access to local ADHD treatment providers, and those needing treatment may have to drive an hour or more to receive care. In such situations, online treatment may be an affordable option. It can be important to find a specialist with experience in your needs to develop a tailored treatment approach.
Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD) recommends starting with your health insurance company’s website to find a list of providers that you might consider for treatment who would be covered by your plan. If you do not have health insurance, it may be helpful to check with local and state mental health services or clinics and health departments to learn about reduced-cost programs or sliding pay scales.
Getting started with BetterHelp is simple:
- Take a short questionnaire. Answer a few quick questions about your goals, preferences, and the type of therapist you’d like to work with.
- Get matched quickly. In most cases, you can be matched with a licensed provider in as little as 48 hours.
- Start therapy on your terms. Schedule sessions by video, phone, or live chat, and join from anywhere you have an internet connection.
Finding the right therapist isn’t just important – it’s everything.
Find your matchFinding an ADHD psychiatrist near me
In addition to the capacity to provide therapy in some cases and prescribe medications when clinically appropriate, psychiatrists can also evaluate and treat any concurrent mental health conditions you or your child may be experiencing, often with specialized training on how ADHD can interact with co-occurring conditions in children, adolescents, and adults. Medical professionals may recommend psychiatrists for evaluating and treating ADHD in adults, according to CHADD. Adult ADHD symptoms can align with the symptoms of other mental health conditions, such as mood disorders or anxiety disorders. CHADD experts suggest a psychiatrist for people who experience ADHD with co-occurring psychiatric conditions.
Find the right fit and build a trusting relationship
Often, successful therapy depends on building a trusting relationship between the psychiatrist or therapist and the patient. While searching for an ADHD psychiatrist, look for a provider who understands ADHD and has experience treating the disorder. However, also try to look for someone with whom you are comfortable who shows a genuine effort to understand you and your individual situation, allowing you to trust them and build a strong relationship over time.
There’s nothing wrong with telling a doctor that you don’t believe they are a good fit and are looking for someone who is a better match. They may be able to recommend a colleague for you to contact.
Research a professional’s experience treating mental health disorders
Not all providers have the same experience treating ADHD, so ask them about their specialties when you meet. You may discuss a professional’s experience working with clients who have ADHD presentations like yours. Maintaining a long-term relationship with your ADHD psychiatrist may increase effectiveness as you learn to place more trust in your therapist and the therapeutic process.
Search online registries to find local treatment options
If local in-person consultation isn’t an option or doesn’t sound appealing, the internet provides mental health resources, from online directories of board-certified ADHD care providers to online ADHD therapy platforms that allow you to receive therapy from the comfort and convenience of your own home.
Some registries you may consider consulting include:
- CHADD Doctor Directory
- American Medical Association
- The US Center for Mental Health Services
- CHADD Hospital and University ADHD Center Directory
- Local hospitals or universities
- Online therapy platforms
How a mental health care professional can treat ADHD, depression, and other psychiatric disorders
Effective ADHD treatment may include therapy for your child, but several varieties are geared toward parents. You can work with a licensed therapist online through virtual therapy providers like BetterHelp to learn parenting and communication skills and coping strategies to help your child manage their ADHD symptoms, as well as receive support for stress, anxiety, or other mental health challenges. BetterHelp now offers psychiatry services through UpLift as an additional care option alongside therapy for adults 18 and older. Psychiatry services may include medication management when clinically appropriate, based on a licensed psychiatric provider’s evaluation.
According to recent research, online therapy, such as parent training or parent-child intervention therapy, can be as effective as traditional face-to-face treatment options. Some parents may find that the ability to receive treatment at home is convenient and makes regular therapy attendance easier.
Takeaway
Does BetterHelp offer psychiatry and medication management?
Yes. BetterHelp now offers psychiatry services through UpLift. BetterHelp psychiatry and medication management services provide virtual mental health care for individuals ages 18 and older who are experiencing mild to severe behavioral health symptoms, including anxiety, depression, and other conditions that may benefit from psychiatric consultation, prescriptions, and ongoing medication management. Psychiatry is an additional care option available alongside therapy and can be part of a holistic mental health care experience. Psychiatry services may include medication management when clinically appropriate. All treatment decisions are made by a licensed psychiatric provider.
Are psychiatry and medication management covered by insurance on BetterHelp?
Yes. BetterHelp now offers psychiatry services that may be covered by insurance through UpLift. Many UpLift providers are in-network with most major insurance carriers (for eligible members the average copay is only $20). The cost of your medication will depend on your insurance plan. We recommend speaking with your insurance to learn how much your medication will cost. Try asking about your copay, deductible, and whether they cover your prescribed medication.
Do people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) go to a psychiatrist?
Yes. It may be recommended for a person with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder to see a psychiatrist. Some people with this disorder may explore medication as part of treatment, and psychiatrists are among the licensed professionals who may prescribe medications when clinically appropriate. It’s not uncommon for individuals with a diagnosis to see both a psychiatrist and a therapist.
How does a psychiatrist help with ADHD?
There are many different ways a psychiatrist can help someone with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. When you first go to a doctor with mental health concerns, they may ask you a series of questions to evaluate your current symptoms. If your symptoms seem to align with a specific condition, your doctor may recommend a formal assessment. They might ask you about your day-to-day life to get a greater sense of what you’re dealing with. Once they have enough information, they may determine whether a diagnosis is appropriate and discuss treatment options based on your individual needs.
Some doctors may explore factors that could contribute to mental health concerns. They might consider whether genetics, premature birth, low birth weight, or other developmental and environmental factors are relevant, for instance.
Do people with ADHD go to a psychologist or psychiatrist?
It’s possible to see either a psychologist or a psychiatrist for treatment. Psychologists generally focus on talk therapy, while a psychiatrist may provide therapy and may also recommend or prescribe medication when clinically appropriate.
What kind of doctor do you see for ADHD?
You can choose to see your primary care doctor or a specialized professional. It’s possible your primary care physician will also refer you to a mental health care professional for more specialized evaluation or treatment.
Should I tell my psychiatrist if I think I have a mental health disorder?
Yes. Generally, you may want to be as open and honest as possible with your mental health services provider, and that includes any suspicions you have about an attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder diagnosis. Doctors specialize in making these assessments, so they can evaluate the information you give them as part of a broader clinical picture.
What questions do psychiatrists ask about ADHD or bipolar disorder?
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and bipolar disorder have some overlapping symptoms, so your doctor may want to consider bipolar disorder when assessing you for ADHD. There are also symptoms in common with anxiety and depression. Here are some examples of questions you might be asked:
- Do you have problems paying attention to daily tasks or trouble focusing on school or work assignments?
- Do you have difficulty waiting in some situations?
- Do you display any hyperactive behaviors like fidgeting or tapping?
- Are you easily distracted?
- Do you have frequent mood swings or emotional outbursts?
- Do you have problems sleeping?
- What makes you feel overwhelmed?
Where can I find an ADHD psychiatrist near me?
Mental health evaluations can be complex, and there may be many different techniques a provider uses when assessing attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in new patients. These approaches could include interviewing the client to understand common symptoms and environmental factors, performing cognitive tests and assessments, and using rating scales to assess their impact on daily life.
What is the main mental health therapy for ADHD?
Once you have received a diagnosis, the next step is to create a treatment plan. In terms of therapy, many mental health professionals recommend cognitive behavioral therapy to address symptoms. Some doctors may use a holistic approach that combines therapy, lifestyle changes, behavioral strategies, and medication when clinically appropriate. Treatment recommendations should be individualized based on a full evaluation.
How successful is mental and behavioral health treatment for ADHD?
ADHD symptoms can appear in early childhood or may not be detected until adulthood. Treatment for the disorder in child and adolescent psychiatry can be effective for many children, and many adults with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder may also benefit from treatment. No matter your age, if you suspect you might have a mental health disorder, it may be worthwhile to explore that with a qualified mental health professional.
Why won't my psychiatrist give me a diagnosis?
There could be many different reasons you don't receive a diagnosis. For example, your doctor may believe you have a different condition, or they may not have enough information to make a definitive diagnosis.
Does ADHD often co-occur with depression?
Research on ADHD and co-occurring conditions published in BMC Psychiatry states, “The most common psychiatric comorbidities that co-occur with ADHD in adults are mood and anxiety disorders.
Medication availability and coverage may vary by member location, clinical appropriateness, and individual pharmacy/insurance benefits. Prescribing decisions are made by the treating clinicians. We do not guarantee that any specific medication will be prescribed or covered by a member’s insurance plan.
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