Enrisner
Q: Hello. We are located in Ohio and I have struggled with finding doctors that truly understand what we are dealing with. I was listening to the additude podcast on Spotify episode 56 and they suggested asking here for advice on doctors to start with in hopes of it not going to 11 different doctors first. We have a referral in at Akron Children's pediatric psychology but not sure which doctor. Any suggestions?
Chesnut Hill CAP I'm sorry that I'm unable to give you a specific recommendation / referral because, like most here I imagine, I don't live in your area.
However, ADHD and ODD are "bread and butter" issues for child psychiatrists. Like any other profession, there are a range of styles in the profession but probably the most important factor in selecting a provider for straightforward ADHD/ODD is availability.
There is still a shortage of Child and Adolescent Psychiatrists (CAPs), and though the situation is improving, it probably won't be quickly enough to help our currently adolescent children.
So, why am I writing? Well, for when you do finally get a CAP, it might facilitate the process to have ready your child's medical history, family history, your own personal observations and your priorities when it comes to treatment.
Why am I saying this? Though ADHD/ODD are common disorders, they can be exacerbated by any number of factors (genetics, environment, parental approach...) and every family has different priorities when it comes to treatment (school performance, impulsivity/safety, sibling conflict, home defiant behaviors, tantrums...).
ODD is often related to an underlying ADHD condition -- the child "needs to have what he wants when he wants it" because of poor frustration-tolerance related to ADHD. But sometimes it's largely unrelated and due to something else entirely (like a mood condition). Your CAP will want to understand those differences so she can recommend the most appropriate treatment.
As far as meds go, if not entirely define your stance on medication, come with a preference and a list of questions/concerns about meds. Also, the vast majority of CAPs do not actually directly perform non-medication management of these conditions -- instead they will refer you to a non-medical provider who specializes in these types of interventions.
I hope this of some help. Good luck!