Why are learning disabilities treated by psychiatrists?!
Question: Why are children and adults with learning disabilities referred automatically to psychiatrists rather than neurologists?
Why are children and adults who suffer brain strokes referred automatically to neurologists rather than psychiatrists?
Answers: Why are children and adults with learning disabilities referred automatically to psychiatrists rather than neurologists?
Why are children and adults who suffer brain strokes referred automatically to neurologists rather than psychiatrists?
Shrinks write prescriptions that hopefully help control features/chemical imbalances that contribute to the disability. Some may even do some counselling to help the patient cope with their disability.
Neuroligists deal with brain issues; diagnostics, determine if surgery is needed or the extent of the damage.
Because neurologist do surgery on the brain, not help you as you overcome a glitch, or problem. The neurologists know about all the nerves and such. The psychiatrists know how the brain functions (to an extent.)
Neurology <---- the science of the brain and it's repair
Psychiatry <---- the science of the brain and it's functions in relation to the human performance...hence the referral to them if someone has a cognitive disability.
It's that simple.
People with LDs usually have underlying issues (like depression) caused by these issues. Also, some LDs are seen with other troublesome behaviors or tendencies, like avoidance behavior or social anxiety.
I am an adult and have just been diagnosed with a nonverbal learning disorder. I now have explanations for the formerly inexplicable depression, anxiety and avoidance behaviors that have been plaguing every aspect of my life for a long time. Besides the fact that it was a psychologist that initially tested and he is the only professional in my area that has experience with people who have what I have.
And that is why I go to a psychologist!