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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.

  1. Pediatrician

    • 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

    • Child psychiatrists specialize in diagnosing and treating pediatric psychiatric conditions such as ADHD. Some psychiatrists work with psychologists to provide ongoing ADHD support.

    Neurologist

    • Pediatric neurologists specialize in the nerve and brain function of children and can diagnose ADHD.

    Psychologist

    • Psychologists assist those with ADHD to develop coping strategies and improve behavior. A psychologist cannot prescribe medication.

    How to Decide

    • 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

    • The above information is not a substitute for proper medical assessment, and professional advice should always be sought.

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