What Doctors Treat Memory Problems?

Memory loss is a very dynamic term and disorder. On the surface, it seems like an ailment that would require just one specialist doctor, but that isn't so. Memory loss covers a wide spectrum of mental disorders, each requiring a different kind of doctor. It is important to know the types of doctors that treat mental illnesses and what each one does and focuses on.

Neurologists

• Neurologists specialize in examining and treating illnesses of the brain and nervous system. They use the latest diagnosis methods to detect memory disorders and prescribe medication and treatment. In order to ensure a diagnosis is accurate, neurologists perform physical examinations and neurophysical testing of mental health. Once the diagnosis is complete, neurologists chart out a plan for patients to carry out their treatment. Neurologists may offer counseling services pertaining to the diagnosis and prognosis.

Neuropsychologists

• Neuropsychologists assess and treat the cognitive and emotional needs of patients suffering from mental ailments or disorders. If someone has difficulty in areas like thinking, memory, personality, speech or other important behaviors, then getting a neuropsychologist's evaluation is a must. The evaluation will take into account mental functions such as intelligence, attention, memory, learning, language, academic skills, planning and organization, emotion, behavior and personality and perceptual and motor ability.

Psychiatrists

• Psychiatrists are clinicians trained to diagnose and treat patients with mental disorders. Other than treating mental illnesses, psychiatrists cover many areas pertaining to mental health. Their specialization allows them to be in the loop with everything pertaining to the brain and also beyond. They examine everything related to the nervous system and mental processes, and also examine ailments causing social and behavioral impairment. Apart from prescribing medication, psychiatrists offer therapeutic treatments.

Psychologists vs. Psychiatrists

• Many feel a visit to the psychologist can also help resolve issues of mental disorders. If the mental disorder in question can be cured with the help of therapeutic sessions, then yes, a psychologist may be able to solve such problems. However, if the root cause of a person's mental disorder needs medicinal help, for example, memory loss, then the person must visit a psychiatrist and get hold of a prescription.