It's time, but what about doctors? - ADD / ADHD Message Board

SkeochGirl · 05-18-2009, 06:34 AM

My son is 13 and has been "undiagnosed" until this January when a local counseling center gave him a diagnosis of inattentive ADHD. We always figured he would outgrow his issues and when he was younger they did not adversely effect his grades and school behaviors. However, now it is.

This is the problem...his pediatrician does not diagnose ADHD or work with counseling/medication to control ADHD. We do not have many clinics in our immediate area that accepts insurance and we cannot afford to pay out of pocket for psychologists. After calling several psychologists they tell me about the two evaluation sessions, and weekly sessions afterwards for some time, then perhaps expanding the time between sessions. The local counseling service did the initial evaluation, diagnosed him, but has not seen him since. I have called multiple times and have only received one call back. This was from the worker who would take over his case and she was extremely nasty and really don't want her taking on his case, but I have called back anyways.

Is it normal for pediatricians not to take on ADHD? How do those of you who do have to see a psychologist handle the cost? Because most independent, and some group clinics do NOT process insurance unless you are Medicare...and I think that is a load of crap!

Snoopy61 · 05-18-2009, 03:10 PM

If your looking to put your son on one of the ADD meds then it's best to have him see a Psychiatrist. These meds are their specialty.

A psychologist/counselor is not a MD and cannot prescribe medications, a Psychiatrist is a MD.

Some pediatricians, general practitioners and primary care physicians do prescribe the ADD meds, but some would rather not, it just depends on the doctor.