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ADHD Doctor
It's important to find a qualified ADHD doctor when dealing with this disorder. The family can begin to search for an ADHD professional by first consulting with the child's pediatrician or family doctor. State and local agencies that serve families and children, as well as some volunteer organizations, can also help a family locate an appropriate ADHD doctor.
If ADHD is suspected, who can the family turn to? What kind of ADHD doctor do they need?
Ideally, diagnosing ADHD should be done by a professional in your area with training in ADHD or in the diagnosis of mental disorders. Child psychiatrists and psychologists, developmental or behavioral pediatricians, or behavioral neurologists are those most often trained in differential diagnoses. Clinical social workers may also have such training.
The family can start by talking with the child's pediatrician or their family doctor. Some pediatricians may do the assessment themselves, but they often refer the family to an appropriate ADHD doctor they know and trust. In addition, state and local agencies that serve families and children, as well as some volunteer organizations, can help identify an appropriate ADHD doctor.
Below is a list of ADHD doctors by specialty:
|
Specialty
|
Can diagnose ADHD
|
Can prescribe medication, if needed
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Provides counseling or training
|
|
Psychiatrists
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Yes
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Yes
|
Yes
|
|
Psychologists
|
Yes
|
No
|
Yes
|
|
Pediatricians or family physicians
|
Yes
|
Yes
|
No
|
|
Neurologists
|
Yes
|
Yes
|
No
|
|
Clinical social workers
|
Yes
|
No
|
Yes
|
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD