#addandadhd

A lot of people still think ADD and ADHD are different, but what used to be seen as two separate conditions is no longer treated that way. Understanding this difference is important for anyone trying to recognize or deal with symptoms effectively.

When we talk about difficulties with focus, hyperactivity, or impulsivity, we're almost always referring to what is now broadly known as ADHD.

What Are the Differences Between ADD and ADHD?

Understanding What Was Known as ADD

In the past, people used the term ADD to refer to those who had difficulty concentrating and staying focused but didn’t show signs of hyperactivity. Today, this is no longer considered a separate diagnosis but is officially recognized as ADHD, Predominantly Inattentive Presentation. Individuals with this presentation primarily struggle with paying close attention, organizing tasks, and being easily distracted, but without the significant hyperactivity or impulsivity often associated with the disorder.

Understanding What Is Known as ADHD

The term ADHD, in its broader sense, highlights the hyperactive and impulsive components that might or might not be accompanied by inattention. This type, now referred to as the Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation, often shows up as constant movement, fidgeting, or talking too much. The restlessness and trouble controlling impulses can make everyday tasks harder to manage.

The Core Difference: Unifying the Terminology

The biggest difference in how we understand ADD and ADHD came when experts decided to use just one name: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Today, that's the only official diagnosis. While the term "ADD" is no longer used by mental health professionals, the symptoms it described still exist.

Instead, experts now describe ADHD as having different "presentations" or "ways it shows up," depending on which groups of symptoms are most noticeable. This means that while you still hear "ADD" in popular conversations, in the professional community, it's understood as the inattentive type of ADHD.

How Symptoms Appear in Daily Life

No matter how ADHD shows up, its symptoms can have a serious impact on everyday life—affecting school, work, relationships, and self-confidence.

Inattention: Trouble focusing often means tasks go unfinished, details get missed, and everyday items or responsibilities, such as appointments, homework, or where something was placed, are easily forgotten.

Hyperactivity and Impulsivity: Feeling restless or acting on impulse can lead to quick decisions and tension in relationships. These traits can also make it hard to stay organized, manage time, or handle emotions, turning daily routines into a struggle.

ADHD in Adulthood: It Changes With Age

ADHD is usually spotted in kids, but it doesn’t just go away with age. A lot of adults still deal with its symptoms, though it can look different. For example, instead of always being on the move, adults with the Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation might just feel restless or have a hard time settling down. Likewise, challenges with inattention become particularly prominent in adult responsibilities, leading to chronic disorganization, poor time management, and a struggle with planning and prioritizing.

Many adults with adult ADD and ADHD also struggle with managing their emotions. They might lose their temper over little things, feel on edge a lot, or have moods that shift fast—and it can take a real toll.

Seeking Clarity and Professional Support

Seeing these signs in yourself or a loved one is a good first step, but it’s important to get a proper diagnosis from a professional to make sure you get the right help. Because ADHD symptoms can look like those from anxiety, depression, or sleep disorders, trying to figure it out on your own can be challenging.

A full evaluation by a licensed mental health expert can help determine what’s really going on. Reaching out to an Oklahoma psychiatrist or another trained specialist can provide a clear diagnosis and a treatment plan that fits your unique situation.

Taking the Next Step With Resilience

The way we talk about it has changed, but adult ADD and ADHD still bring real challenges. Getting the terms right matters—it helps in receiving a proper diagnosis and leads to better ways to handle symptoms and improve everyday life.

At Resilient Psychotherapy and Psychiatric Services, we focus on supportive, in-depth care for

adults dealing with ADHD. Our team provides expert assessments, customized medication plans, and proven therapy approaches based on each person’s needs. With an Oklahoma psychiatrist and skilled psychotherapist on staff, we’re here to help you regain control.

Choosing the right psychiatrist in OKC is a key part of taking care of your mental health. Whether you're dealing with ongoing symptoms, exploring medication options, or looking into a possible diagnosis, understanding if a referral is required can make things easier.

When Is a Referral Necessary?

Figuring out the referral process can seem complicated, but it usually comes down to a clinic’s rules or your insurance coverage. Some places ask for a referral from a doctor or therapist, while others—like Resilient Psychotherapy and Psychiatric Services—do not require one, so you can get started without extra steps.

Referrals are typically used to make sure a patient’s needs match the specialist’s area of expertise, and they can also support a more team-based approach to care. With more complex conditions, the referring provider can help manage treatment across different specialists, making sure your overall health is taken into account. It’s a good idea to check with the clinic and your insurance company to understand what’s required.

How Insurance Impacts Referral Requirements

Even if a psychiatrist accepts new patients without a referral, your insurance plan may still require one for coverage. Many health insurance providers require a referral from a primary care physician to cover psychiatric visits. It's always a good idea to contact your insurance company directly and confirm whether a referral is needed for reimbursement.

What About Resilient Psychotherapy?

At Resilient Psychotherapy and Psychiatric Services, we believe in direct, compassionate care without unnecessary barriers. Referrals are welcome from medical and mental health professionals but are not required to schedule an appointment. This makes it easier for you to access care when you need it most—without the delay of waiting on another provider.

Our practice operates outside of traditional insurance networks for medication management services, meaning clients are responsible for payment at the time of service. However, some are able to submit superbills to their insurance provider for possible reimbursement, depending on their plan.

For psychotherapy services, we are in-network with BlueCross BlueShield (BCBS) and Health Choice. This approach allows us to prioritize individualized care while offering flexibility based on the type of service you’re seeking.

What Services Does an Oklahoma City Psychiatrist Provide?

A psychiatrist in OKC is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders. They are uniquely trained to understand the biological and physical aspects of mental wellness. The services they provide often include:

Comprehensive psychiatric evaluations

Personalized medication management

Careful monitoring for side effects or interactions

Ongoing assessment and support

A psychiatrist works with individuals who face a wide range of concerns, including OCD, anxiety, and depression. These conditions can often overlap or change in intensity over time, which is why a personalized and attentive approach is so important.

Psychiatrist vs. Therapist: Do I Need Both?

While psychiatrists and therapists often collaborate, they play different parts in your care. Psychiatrists can prescribe and manage medications and are trained in the medical side of mental health. Therapists—like counselors or psychologists—focus more on talk therapy, helping you work through emotions, build coping strategies, and get support for everyday challenges.

If you're dealing with OCD, anxiety, and depression, a collaborative approach with both a psychiatrist and a therapist may be recommended. Pairing medication with therapy often works better than either one alone—it tends to help more over time.

How to Choose a Psychiatrist in OKC

Choosing the right Oklahoma City psychiatrist is a deeply personal process. The right provider listens, understands what you need, and offers care that fits. When you're narrowing down your choices, ask questions like:

Do they take patients without a referral?

What’s their process for therapy and medication management?

Have they worked with people who’ve dealt with your condition, such as OCD, anxiety, and depression?

Reading reviews, asking for recommendations, and contacting the office directly can help you feel confident in your next step.

Compassionate, Direct Care at Resilient Psychotherapy

If you're looking for a psychiatrist who offers compassionate, evidence-based care without unnecessary barriers, Resilient Psychotherapy and Psychiatric Services can help. You don’t need a referral to get started, though we’re happy to take them. Our focus is on meeting you where you are and offering care that fits your needs.

Finding your way through mental health challenges can be difficult, and it’s not always clear where to begin. For many people, reaching out to a trained professional is an important first step. A psychologist OKC plays a key role in helping individuals understand their emotions, thought patterns, and behaviors. They help by taking the time to understand your unique situation, offering insight through one-on-one conversations, assessments, and everyday tools you can actually use. Rather than temporary fixes, their focus is on helping you build long-term emotional strength.

If you’ve been wanting to understand yourself better or make sense of what you’re going through, talking to a psychologist can be a good place to begin.

Key Ways a Psychologist OKC Provides Support

A psychologist doesn’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. They rely on their training and experience to figure out what’s actually helpful for each person, adjusting how they support you based on what you’re dealing with and what you need.

Comprehensive Assessment and Diagnosis

One important part of a psychologist’s job is taking the time to understand what someone is going through. They use a mix of interviews and evaluations to get a clearer sense of how a person thinks, feels, and acts. These can help identify mental health conditions and give both the psychologist and client insight—laying the groundwork for a treatment plan that actually fits.

Evidence-Based Psychotherapy

At the core of a psychologist's practice is psychotherapy, often called "talk therapy." Psychologists may use a variety of trusted approaches, like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), to guide their work. These conversations help uncover deeper issues, challenge unhelpful thought patterns, build healthier coping tools, and work through tough emotions or past experiences. The goal is lasting change and improved functioning.

The therapeutic approach may differ depending on the psychologist. For example, at Resilient Psychotherapy and Psychiatric Services, Dr. Christina Whelan utilizes CBT, specifically for patients dealing with chronic pain. If you have any questions about therapeutic

approaches, speaking with your psychologist OKC is recommended.

Developing Coping Strategies

Psychologists support more than just mental health diagnoses—they help people build everyday skills like managing stress, communicating clearly, and handling emotions. These tools make daily life feel more manageable and support better mental well-being. Choosing the best psychologist in OKC means finding someone who can help you build these tools in a way that fits your lifestyle.

Specialized Support for Unique Needs

Some psychologists choose to work with specific groups or focus on particular concerns, which lets them offer care that really fits what each person is going through.

Adult ADHD

Some psychologists specialize in neurodevelopmental conditions like ADHD, providing vital support for adults struggling with focus, organization, time management, and emotional control. An adult ADHD specialist near me understands how these challenges show up in daily life and offers tools to improve focus, manage impulses, and feel more in control—at work, at home, and beyond.

Navigating Life Transitions & Relationships

Psychologists can be especially helpful during major life changes—career shifts, divorce, loss, or serious health issues. They provide space to process emotions and adjust to new realities. Some also work with individuals and couples on relationship challenges—helping improve communication, resolve conflict, and build stronger connections.

When to Seek a Psychologist’s Help

Deciding to reach out to a psychologist is personal and often happens when life feels overwhelming or when you’re seeking personal growth.

You might consider seeing a psychologist if you experience concerning symptoms, such as ongoing sadness, anxiety, irritability, or changes in sleep and appetite. If your daily life feels off track or you’re using unhealthy ways to cope, professional support can make a real difference.

Psychologists also help those looking to better understand themselves or improve performance. Even without a diagnosis, that kind of insight can be incredibly valuable. Choosing the best psychologist in OKC means finding someone who truly takes time to understand you and supports your mental health journey.

Take the Next Step Toward Clarity

A psychologist offers steady support, helping you understand what you're going through with the help of professional assessments, proven therapy methods, and practical tools. Their training allows them to address many different challenges, making it easier to move forward with clarity and confidence.

At Resilient Psychotherapy and Psychiatric Services, our team includes an experienced psychologist committed to care that’s both personalized and evidence-based. We provide a private, supportive space where you can talk openly, work through challenges, and find lasting solutions. Whether you’re seeking help for general concerns, need specialized therapy with an adult ADHD specialist near me, or want well-rounded emotional support, our psychologist is here for you.

Choosing to begin therapy is a strong, courageous decision toward caring for your mental health. But after making that decision, the next question often follows—how do you find someone who truly gets what you’re going through and can help? Searching for a psychologist OKC might seem overwhelming at first, but knowing what to look for can lead you to the right match for your goals and personal challenges.

Step 1: Clarifying Your Needs and Goals

Not every therapist will be right for you. Before anything else, be honest with yourself about what you’re dealing with and what kind of help you want.

Pinpointing Your Focus

Think about what you're dealing with—stress, relationship struggles, or major life shifts. It may be a specific mental health condition, like OCD, anxiety, and depression, affecting your day-to-day life. Being clear about what’s going on and what you want to gain from therapy can help point you in the right direction.

Step 2: Beginning Your Search for a Psychologist OKC

Once you have a clear understanding of your needs, you can begin exploring where to find qualified professionals. These initial searches can help you identify a range of specialists equipped to handle various concerns, from general life adjustments to more specific needs like adult ADD and ADHD.

Utilizing Key Resources

Start by checking trusted online directories, where you can narrow results based on location, specialty, and insurance. You might also ask your doctor or someone you trust for recommendations. These tools can help you find a psychologist who fits what you’re looking for.

Step 3: Essential Considerations for Your

Choice

As you put together your list, take time to really read through each profile. Look for someone who’s worked with people dealing with similar concerns—and whose approach actually makes sense to you.

Evaluating Expertise and Approach

Look for a psychologist who is licensed, ensuring they meet professional standards. Look at their background to determine if they work with concerns similar to yours, like adult ADD and ADHD, or which approaches they utilize, like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

Credentials matter, but so does whether their way of working feels right to you.

Step 4: The Initial Connection and Assessing Fit

Once you have a few promising candidates, arranging an initial consultation is your opportunity to feel the connection. This appointment is crucial for establishing and assessing rapport.

Finding Your Comfort Level

The first meeting isn’t about ticking boxes. You’re just trying to determine if this is someone you can talk to and feel comfortable around. That kind of comfort matters—it’s what everything else will build on. It’s also worth asking about practical details like fees, insurance, and general availability.

You should also bring up any specific concerns you’re hoping to work through, like those involving OCD, anxiety, and depression, to see how much experience they have in those areas. Just as important as the answers they give is how you feel while speaking with them. Do you feel heard? Do they seem engaged? If that first conversation feels easy and respectful, it’s a good sign. Real progress usually starts with the initial connection.

Take the Next Step Toward Healing

Finding the right psychologist OKC is an important step toward healing. It takes some honest reflection and effort, but the right psychologist can make a lasting difference in how you navigate life.

At Resilient Psychotherapy & Psychiatric Services, we understand the importance of finding the ideal fit. Our highly qualified psychologist, Dr. Christina Whelan, along with our psychiatrist, Dr. Sean Whelan, specializes in a range of mental health concerns, offering

comprehensive care for those struggling with OCD, anxiety, and depression, as well as ADD and ADHD.

Figuring out where to turn for mental health support can be confusing, especially when the roles of psychiatrists and therapists appear alike on the surface. The best choice comes down to what you personally need, your symptoms, and how you prefer to approach treatment.

Understanding the core differences between therapy and medication-based care can help you find the right path—and the right professional—to support your mental health. An experienced OKC psychiatrist or a skilled therapist can both make a meaningful difference, but their paths to healing diverge in important ways.

Understanding the Role of an OKC Psychiatrist

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (MD or DO) who has completed a rigorous four-year residency specializing in mental health. With their strong medical training, they’re able to see how physical health, brain function, and emotional well-being are all connected. This allows them to recognize the biological influences behind many mental health challenges.

Scope of Practice

One of the defining characteristics of a psychiatrist is their ability to prescribe and manage medication. They are experts in psychopharmacology, understanding how different medications work on the brain to ease symptoms of various mental illnesses. Though some psychiatrists do offer talk therapy, their main role typically centers on managing medications—especially for serious conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or major depression, where medication can play a critical role in treatment.

When weighing your mental health care options, working with an Oklahoma City psychiatrist can give you access to medical expertise that's especially valuable for complex conditions.

Understanding the Role of a Therapist: Your Guide Through Healing

The term "therapist" is an umbrella term encompassing various licensed mental health professionals, each holding distinct qualifications. These professionals include psychologists (typically having a doctoral degree, such as a Ph.D. or Psy.D.), licensed professional counselors (LPCs), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFTs) and clinical social workers (LCSWs), all of whom undergo extensive education and supervised clinical training.

Scope of Practice

Unlike psychiatrists, therapists cannot prescribe medication. Their primary method of treatment is psychotherapy, often referred to as "talk therapy." Through various therapeutic approaches—such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)—they can help clients explore their thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and relationship dynamics.

Therapists help guide individuals in developing coping strategies, improving communication skills, processing past traumas, and fostering personal growth. For many seeking guidance through life's complexities, connecting with a qualified therapist, such as the best psychologist in OKC, provides a crucial pathway to understanding and resilience.

When to Seek a Therapist vs. a Psychiatrist

When to See a Psychiatrist

You might consider seeing a psychiatrist if:

Your symptoms are severe, persistent, or significantly impacting your daily life.

You or your current therapist believe medication may be beneficial in treating your condition (e.g., bipolar disorder, severe anxiety or depression, or schizophrenia).

You need help managing existing psychiatric medications.

An Oklahoma City psychiatrist can also be sought for an initial diagnosis if you are unsure of the nature of your symptoms or need a comprehensive medical evaluation of your mental health.

When to See a Therapist

A therapist can be an excellent choice if you are:

Coping with stress, grief, or navigating complex life transitions.

Managing mild to moderate anxiety or depression that doesn't immediately require medication.

Looking to develop new coping strategies, improve relationships, or gain self-awareness.

You prefer a non-medication approach to mental health care.

Finding the best psychologist in OKC can offer a strong foundation for those seeking talk therapy.

Meet With Our Mental Health Professionals

Finding the right mental health support means knowing what different specialists bring to the table. At Resilient Psychotherapy & Psychiatric Services, we focus on a well-rounded approach—blending thoughtful psychotherapy with skilled psychiatric services to offer comprehensive care for each person. Our team, led by Dr. Christina Whelan, a licensed clinical psychologist, and Dr. Sean Whelan, a licensed OKC psychiatrist, is dedicated to providing highly personalized and discreet support.

A strong connection with your psychiatrist OKC is key to good treatment—and can make a significant difference in your progress. You need to feel like they listen to you, respect you, and understand what you are going through. These appointments should be a safe and comfortable place to navigate your thoughts and feelings, even the tough ones.

That is why finding and meeting with a good Oklahoma psychiatrist is so important. When starting your search, finding the right one can feel like a big task; however, knowing what to look for can make the process easier and help you find someone who truly fits your needs.

Start By Understanding Your Needs

Take the time to consider your needs and hopes for your therapeutic relationship. For example, you can ask yourself:

What specific symptoms or feelings am I struggling with?

How are these challenges affecting my daily life, work, or relationships?

What are my goals for seeking treatment?

Knowing these answers can help you approach your search with confidence and clarity.

Where to Find a Potential Psychiatrist OKC

You can find potential psychiatrists through several avenues, including:

Primary Care Physicians: Your main doctor may be able to recommend a list of trusted colleagues.

Professional Organizations: Mental health groups and associations often have online search tools.

Trusted Referrals: Friends or family members may offer suggestions based on positive experiences.

Online Searches: Search engines and directories may help you find professionals in your area.

Once you find some potential psychiatrists, you can refine your list by reviewing each professional’s specialties, approach, and appointment options.

3 Considerations for Choosing the Right Oklahoma Psychiatrist

1.     Professional Specialties

Psychiatrists can help with a range of mental health challenges, such as anxiety disorders, treatment-resistant depression, personality disorders, and attention-deficit disorders. Some may also focus on helping patients navigate lifestyle adjustments, unresolved grief, or stressors that members of the LGBTQIA+ community may experience.

Psychiatrists may treat a variety of conditions or focus on specific areas. As such, before meeting with a psychiatrist, look into their specialties. Whether you need assistance through life transitions, support for depression and anxiety, or are seeking an adult ADHD specialist near me, meeting with a professional who understands your circumstances can ensure you receive the most effective care.

2.         Treatment Approach

Psychiatrists have different approaches to care, so it is also helpful to understand their style. For example, some focus on therapy, while others primarily manage medication. Additionally, a psychiatrist may collaborate with other mental health professionals to help provide

well-rounded care to patients. Understanding a potential psychiatrist’s approach can ensure you meet with someone who works within your needs and preferences.

3.         Appointment Practicalities

In addition to considering a potential psychiatrist’s services, think about the logistical aspects of your appointments with them, including their:

Location: Is the office easy for you to get to? Would you have to travel long distances?

Offfice Hours: Could you meet at a time that works with your schedule?

Telemedicine Options: Do they offer online visits? Is this a good option for you?

Discretion: What does their office do to ensure privacy and confidentiality?

Considering these factors can ensure you choose a psychiatrist whose appointment options suit your needs.

Determining Whether a Psychiatrist Is “Right” for Your Needs

Setting the Foundation

Whether through an introductory call or an in-person visit, your first meeting with a new

psychiatrist OKC can help you determine if this is the right fit. Consider asking questions like:

What is your experience with conditions like mine?

How do you typically approach treatment for these concerns?

How will we work together on a treatment plan?

What can I expect in terms of follow-up and monitoring?

Their responses can help set the foundation for a strong, positive therapeutic relationship.

Trusting Your Instincts

Your comfort and confidence in your Oklahoma psychiatrist are essential for a successful therapeutic relationship. As such, it is always okay to talk to a few different professionals before making your final choice. This decision is about your health, and finding someone you trust is what matters most.

Supporting Your Path to Mental Wellness

The right psychiatrist will be a strong partner on your path toward feeling better. Resilient Psychotherapy & Psychiatric Services would be honored to be your dedicated partner. We offer compassionate, discreet, and personalized mental health care to adult patients at our Oklahoma City location and online through secure telemedicine services.