What Kind of Doctor Do ADHD Children Need to See?
The American Academy of Pediatrics defines ADHD as a condition of the brain that makes it difficult for children to control their behavior (Pediatrics, pp. 1158-1170, Vol. 105 No. 5 May 2000). Four types of doctors diagnose and treat ADHD.
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Pediatrician
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A pediatrician may be the first to observe ADHD tendencies in a child and refer parents to one of three types of specialists who are experts in pediatric ADHD: a child psychiatrist, a neurologist or a psychologist.
Child Psychiatrist
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Child psychiatrists specialize in diagnosing and treating pediatric psychiatric conditions such as ADHD. Some psychiatrists work with psychologists to provide ongoing ADHD support.
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Neurologist
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Pediatric neurologists specialize in the nerve and brain function of children and can diagnose ADHD.
Psychologist
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Psychologists assist those with ADHD to develop coping strategies and improve behavior. A psychologist cannot prescribe medication.
How to Decide
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Deciding which kind of specialist to consult is a very personal matter. Some parents think there's a stigma in seeing a psychiatrist. Others believe that a psychiatrist is the best choice of all. A good pediatrician can make suggestions and give referrals. Word of mouth can also be very useful.
Disclaimer
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The above information is not a substitute for proper medical assessment, and professional advice should always be sought.
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- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Beverly
