ADHD
Compassionate treatment for individuals with ADHD.
See a therapist specialized in ADHD. If you’re intersested in counseling for ADHD symptoms, please reach out to be scheduled this week. Get therapy anywhere via telehealth or in-person in Denver and Lakewood!
What exactly is ADHD?
ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, is a common and chronic neurodevelopmental disorder that is usually diagnosed in childhood and continues through adulthood. ADHD can cause low self-esteem, poor social awareness, high sensitivity to criticism, and negative self-talk.
If left untreated, ADHD can impair functioning in many areas of life, including academic or vocational achievement, social functioning, and executive functioning.
ADHD comes in different types.
There are three types of ADHD:
- Inattentive
- Hyperactive
- Combined
Someone who has Inattentive ADHD can show symptoms such as difficulty sustaining attention to tasks, has difficulty organizing tasks, forgetfulness, or losing necessary things for tasks, such as books or pencils.
Those with Hyperactive ADHD may have symptoms such as fidgeting, trouble staying still, and excessive talking or interrupting.
Someone with Combined ADHD may experience symptoms of both the Inattentive and Hyperactive type.
Regardless of type, the symptoms of ADHD often don’t feel very good and can cause significant impairment in the individual’s life.
How is ADHD treated?
ADHD is a highly treatable and manageable condition. Treatment for ADHD commonly involves a combination of medication, psychoeducation, skills training, and counseling.
Medication: ADHD is commonly managed with stimulant medication. These medications have been shown to improve focus, and balance the neurotransmitters in the brain that are believed to correlate with ADHD, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. ADHD medication is typically prescribed in either a nonstimulant form (such as an antidepressant) or a stimulant form (such as methylphenidates).
Psychoeducation and Skills Training: For those living with ADHD, taking the time to learn about the disorder typically leads to better symptom management and improved self-esteem.
There are lots of different ways to learn about ADHD, such as skills training. In skills training, individuals work with a therapist to better understand their disorder and integrate that knowledge into skills that can be used in everyday life. Skills training is also great for learning more about symptom mangement (see the research here).
Better Life therapists use several modalities for ADHD management and treatment, including CBT, Behavior Therapy, and Skills Groups, all of which are highly effective in treating ADHD.
What are the symptoms of ADHD?
Although some symptoms can be experienced at any age, ADHD often looks different in adults.
In Adults
- Impulsiveness
- Lack of executive functioning
- Poor time management
- Restlessness
- Low tolerance for frustration
- Mood swings
- Difficulty completing tasks
- Difficulty managing stress
In Young People
- Distractibility
- Disorganization
- Hyperactivity
- Difficulting staying focused
- Hot temper
- Impulsivity
- Emotional dysregulation
What can I do about it?
If you think you have ADHD, it’s important that you connect with your primary care provider. Your PCP can provide resources for connecting you with a therapy professional to explore an official diagnosis.
Better Life Therapy offers comprehensivere resources and treatment for ADHD. Our professional and highly skilled team of therapists are equipped to help you to manage the symptoms of ADHD and lead a healthy, full life. Contact us today to set up your first appointment.
