ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that affects the brain’s executive functions. While the exact cause is not fully understood, research suggests that genetics play a significant role. Environmental factors, brain injuries, and differences in brain structure and function can also contribute. ADHD is not caused by poor parenting, too much sugar, or too much screen time. It’s a real condition that affects how your brain processes information and regulates attention and behavior.

ADHD can manifest differently in each person, and symptoms can change over time. There are three main types of ADHD: predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive, and combined type. Common signs include:

Inattention:

• Difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or activities
• Easily distracted by external stimuli or unrelated thoughts
• Trouble following through on instructions or completing tasks
• Appearing not to listen when spoken to directly
• Difficulty organizing tasks and managing time
• Frequently losing important items
• Forgetfulness in daily activities

Hyperactivity-Impulsivity:

• Fidgeting or squirming when seated
• Difficulty remaining seated when expected
• Feeling restless or “on the go”
• Talking excessively
• Difficulty waiting for one’s turn
• Interrupting or intruding on others

Additional challenges often associated with ADHD:

• Emotional dysregulation
• Sleep difficulties
• Low frustration tolerance
• Difficulty with transitions
• Hyperfocus on interesting tasks
• Procrastination
• Low self-esteem

If ADHD symptoms are significantly impacting your daily life, relationships, work or academic performance, it may be beneficial to seek professional help. Have you tried various organizational strategies or self-help techniques without finding lasting improvement? Are you struggling with the emotional impact of living with ADHD, such as feelings of frustration, shame, or inadequacy? If you’re having difficulty managing your symptoms or maintaining a good quality of life, therapeutic support could be highly beneficial.

ADHD can be challenging to address alone due to its complex nature. It affects not just your ability to focus and organize, but also your emotional well-being, relationships, and overall quality of life. A skilled therapist can help you develop effective coping strategies, manage the emotional impact of ADHD, and work towards improving your overall functioning and well-being.

Starting therapy for ADHD may feel like admitting defeat, but it’s actually a courageous step towards taking control of your life. With the right therapist to guide you, you can develop the tools and confidence to manage your ADHD effectively and achieve your full potential.

When you begin therapy with one of our compassionate counselors, your therapist will first take the time to understand you as a whole person. The initial assessment will include exploring your ADHD symptoms, their impact on your life, your personal history, your strengths and challenges, and your overall life context.

Your therapist will focus on helping you develop a comprehensive approach to managing ADHD. This may include:

• Cognitive-behavioral techniques to change unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors
• Skill-building in areas such as time management, organization, and task completion
• Strategies for improving focus and reducing distractibility
• Techniques for managing impulsivity and emotional regulation
• Exploring the emotional impact of ADHD and developing self-compassion
• Improving communication and relationship skills
• Setting realistic goals and developing action plans to achieve them
• Collaborating with other professionals (e.g., psychiatrists for medication management) if needed

Therapy provides a safe space for you to learn about your ADHD, experiment with new strategies, and build the skills you need to thrive. Your therapist will work with you to tailor interventions to your unique needs and strengths.

The length of time in therapy depends on each person’s unique situation and needs. Some people find significant benefits in just a few months of targeted skill-building, while others benefit from longer-term support to address ingrained patterns and co-existing conditions. ADHD management is often an ongoing process, and you may find it helpful to have periodic “booster” sessions even after your initial course of therapy. You and your therapist will set goals and monitor your progress toward those goals. Ultimately, you’ll decide how long you want to work together with your therapist based on your personal objectives and progress.