Hi everyone, I posted here a little bit ago because I think I have ADD.
I was told by a pyschologist a few years ago that I had it but my parents didnt think it was 'real'

so now i am 22 and i've decided to get help for it. i have an appointment with a psychiatrist who treats ADD patients. Do I need to see a psychologist also, or can the psychiatrist diagnos and treat me?

thanks for your help.:)

The psychiatrist can help you and will tell you the course he wishes to take for testing and how to treat it. You certainly have other options, but this seems a sensible place to start.

Both can diagnose, but a psychiatrist can write a script for meds. I don't think a psychologist can.

I like your screen name. LOL

What kind of testing is it? A written test?

I find Pyschologists a lot more useful in doing a proper diagnosis of mental disorders. A Psychiatrist is more for talking about your problems, say a poor childhood or some abusive situation.

Just my two cents, and it doesn't mean I am right.

You mean me? thanks

I went through an interview, just talking one on one. Then I had at least 6 pages of yes/no questions and the "all the time, sometimes, rarely, never" kind of questions.

There was to be more to it. But my insurance wouldn't pay for it. But based on the results of what I did my psychiatrist felt that it was enough to go on. Kind of an off the chart, more than likely, result.

And jlscott is correct, a psychologist cannot perscribe meds. You may end up doing a combination of meds and counseling, but again, the treatment plan will be unique to what you and your doctor would like to persue. Sometimes the "right" med or coping tool doesn't work the first time around and you have to try different things.

For example, this forum works better for me than my counselor. Which is perfect. I like the people here better and it's free. :D

Scuro, I thought it was the other way around. No?

Okay, hopefully my pyschiatrist will be able to help me. I dont think i need a counselor but we'll see what the dr says.

My appointment is in 3 weeks! that was the earliest. grr.

oh well.

thank you for all your help everyone.

I've gotta go now. TTYL:)

http://www.addforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=9767&highlight=psychiatrist

ADD 101

hope this helps.

I find Pyschologists a lot more useful in doing a proper diagnosis of mental disorders. A Psychiatrist is more for talking about your problems, say a poor childhood or some abusive situation.

Just my two cents, and it doesn't mean I am right.

Actually, that's the exact opposite...psychologists do tend to be more reliable in diagnosis of psychological disorders, because they have more schooling in clinical work (they are Ph.D.s in Psychology). Their schooling consists of B.A. in Psychology (or related), Masters in Psychology (or related), Ph.D. in Psychology.

However, Psychiatrists tend towards a medicinal philosophy. A psychiatrist is a physician, with a Doctorate of Medicine. They have taken Pre-Med (or related) schooling, Medical School, and then 2 years of Psychiatric specialization (usually.)

As a result, Psychologists tend to take a more clinical counseling approach. They generally work towards a talking cure. Psychiatrists take a clinical medicinal approach, as they are trained physicians.

Not to many Psychologists do the counseling thing with ADHD people in this neck of the woods ( Canada )....unless of course the client is rolling in dough. Private coverage doesn't usually cover long term counciling and public health care certainly doesn't.

Counciling? Heck, thats why they are getting tested, because ADHD people don't listen. lol Why are they gonna listen to some professional with a few letters behind his name? Barkley would agree with me. ;)

Oh I see, interesting. Psychologists specialize in counseling, though, usually...though frankly, ADHD being what it is, I don't think much of counseling for it anyways...some behavioral modification techniques in children, etc. but because it doesn't have a cognitive onset, it can't really have a cognitive "cure." Just coping mechanisms...no matter.

Not to many Psychologists do the counseling thing with ADHD people in this neck of the woods ( Canada )....unless of course the client is rolling in dough. Private coverage doesn't usually cover long term counciling and public health care certainly doesn't.

Counciling? Heck, thats why they are getting tested, because ADHD people don't listen. lol Why are they gonna listen to some professional with a few letters behind his name? Barkley would agree with me. ;)

My ADD was diagnosed by a psychiatrist--who was already treating me medically for GAD and OCD. This was an advantage in that he was able to immediately prescribe ADD meds.

He does little talk therapy, but I think he often refers people to counselors, if needed. To me, starting with the medical end made sense, since factors such as determining if meds are needed and in what dose can take some adjustment. Also, therapy can go better if meds are providing symptom relief.

If you opt for a psychiatrist, you might ask if he sees patients for 15 minute sessions for meds. That may not be best for the initial visit, but would be economical after that if all he/she will do is a med check.

Just my 2 cents.

Best regards,

DBR

With myself a psychiatrist was absolutely no help but gave me meds.Psychologist really helped me deal and understand,wonderful therapy for me and my hubby.Even though it took my now general physician to really touch base with my husband.The reason for not staying with my psychiatrist wathey wouldnt prescribe me a stimulant because of past drug history.(Which is absolutely rediculous,since its pretty much a fact that ADDers self medicate,therefor a vicious circle turns!)My psychologist was just financially draining and I was simply running out of options and time and money!I decided to go to my family practice after speaking with my girls pediatrician,who is head of C.H.A.D. here in OKC.He also gave me the helpful hint to not mention my drug usage until I got the meds I needed.I know that sounds horrible but it was the only thing that worked.If they hear of previous drug usage,your immediately put under a spy glass!My doc now knows of my PAST drug usage.He said it just proved another point of ADDers and self medicating.Good luck.

The important thing is to make sure the diagnostician has a good understaning of Adult ADD. Many don't!!!

Here's a link to a great article about which professionals can diagnose and treat ADD http://www.additudemag.com/addabc.asp?DEPT_NO=202&SUB_NO=2

Hi everyone, i just wanted to do an update since you've all been so helpful.
I've gotten an appointment for earlier then i thought: This friday!
YAY!
:D

I cant wait, but I'm also nervous that the doctor will think i'm lying. I was told before that i had ADD but i've never been treated.
also i have been reading up on meds in this ADD Forum and I dont want my Dr to put me on Strattera since a lot of people have said it made them sleepy, and kinda depressed ( i have a history of depression)

anyway, those are just some worries of mine.

I got fired from my job. I am not blaming it on ADD but it was SO hard for me to remember stuff. it was so embarassing. it was my first Office job ( i used to be a nanny) and I messed up so much. :(

Anyone know how much the generic forms of Ritalin or Adderall cost? (the most common meds?)
My insurance company covers all BUT %20 of Medications.
i'm trying to figure out how much that it since i am a poor college student who just lost her job!

Getting fired from work..... IS AN IMPAIRMENT IN A MAJOR LIFE ACTIVITY

Research has consistently shown that to be the case for ADHD's.

If you have access to some old school transcripts or report cards, that would be great.

Also, if you parents could provide info that would be great as well.

Good luck.

mctavish23 (Robert )

Lana.
If your doc wants to prescribe Adderall or Concerta, ask if he has some coupons that would let you get a trial Rx free.

Best wishes,
DBR