ADHD Therapists in Washington, DC

Photo of Evan Tokarz, LICSW, LCSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Evan Tokarz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002  (Online Only)
In addition to extensive experience with those working with anxiety, depression, and relationship problems, I possess experience in working with ADHD, Asperger's (HFA), and LGBTQIA+ individuals, as well as those identifying as neurodivergent/neurospicy more broadly.
Licensed in DC, FL, AZ. If you're grappling with challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, or issues in your relationships, you're not alone. Sometimes, we get caught in repetitive patterns that seem insurmountable. Through individual therapy, I offer strategies to help you break free from these cycles by talking through patterns in your life in an attempt to identify root issues. My goal is to empower you with the tools you need to enhance self-awareness, boost confidence, and take actions that foster the personal growth you rightfully deserve.
In addition to extensive experience with those working with anxiety, depression, and relationship problems, I possess experience in working with ADHD, Asperger's (HFA), and LGBTQIA+ individuals, as well as those identifying as neurodivergent/neurospicy more broadly.
Licensed in DC, FL, AZ. If you're grappling with challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, or issues in your relationships, you're not alone. Sometimes, we get caught in repetitive patterns that seem insurmountable. Through individual therapy, I offer strategies to help you break free from these cycles by talking through patterns in your life in an attempt to identify root issues. My goal is to empower you with the tools you need to enhance self-awareness, boost confidence, and take actions that foster the personal growth you rightfully deserve.
(202) 991-3128 View (202) 991-3128
Photo of Cynthia E. Killough, PsyD, Psychologist
Cynthia E. Killough
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
Not accepting new clients
I offer a range of testing services including ADHD evaluation, adoption readiness reports, disability opinions, and admissions testing.
I use an active, serious and friendly approach to help you figure out where you are right now and how to move forward. Talking with a professional psychologist can organize your thinking and transform your outlook. You can overcome issues such as anxiety, fearfulness, low mood, career concerns, dating troubles, family problems and more when you move past emotional roadblocks. Problem-solve for 1-2 sessions or take a deeper look at your underlying thoughts and habits. When you understand yourself more fully you can take action to make your life better.
I offer a range of testing services including ADHD evaluation, adoption readiness reports, disability opinions, and admissions testing.
I use an active, serious and friendly approach to help you figure out where you are right now and how to move forward. Talking with a professional psychologist can organize your thinking and transform your outlook. You can overcome issues such as anxiety, fearfulness, low mood, career concerns, dating troubles, family problems and more when you move past emotional roadblocks. Problem-solve for 1-2 sessions or take a deeper look at your underlying thoughts and habits. When you understand yourself more fully you can take action to make your life better.
(202) 670-0925 View (202) 670-0925
Photo of Marjorie de Veer, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marjorie de Veer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008  (Online Only)
Are you a former ex-pat having a hard time adjusting to life back in the U.S.? Do you struggle with ADHD or issues related to trauma? Is grief dominating your life? As a psychotherapist with nearly 20 years of experience, I've helped hundreds of clients regain a sense of control and ease over their lives. Cultural adjustments can be stressful, no matter where you're living. I have a deep understanding and sensitivity of the ex-pat experience, with all of its joys and challenges, having spent 10 years overseas, providing counseling to American expatriates, in Hanoi, Vietnam, and Bogota, Colombia.
Are you a former ex-pat having a hard time adjusting to life back in the U.S.? Do you struggle with ADHD or issues related to trauma? Is grief dominating your life? As a psychotherapist with nearly 20 years of experience, I've helped hundreds of clients regain a sense of control and ease over their lives. Cultural adjustments can be stressful, no matter where you're living. I have a deep understanding and sensitivity of the ex-pat experience, with all of its joys and challenges, having spent 10 years overseas, providing counseling to American expatriates, in Hanoi, Vietnam, and Bogota, Colombia.
(202) 933-3775 View (202) 933-3775
Photo of Kathleen C. Fort - Counseling Center of DC, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Counseling Center of DC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016  (Online Only)
Have you been diagnosed with ADHD or wondered if you might have ADHD? Do you feel like you are fighting through a fog that often hinders you from achieving your goals at work, school, or home? Are you tired of struggling to get important work done and apps and to-do lists are not helping as much as they used to? Hello, my name is Kathleen Fort LICSW, LCSW and I am here to help. I am a psychotherapist with over twenty-five years of experience specializing in working with adults who have ADHD, think they might have ADHD, or adults who simply struggle with avoidance, procrastination, anxiety and work/life balance.
Have you been diagnosed with ADHD or wondered if you might have ADHD? Do you feel like you are fighting through a fog that often hinders you from achieving your goals at work, school, or home? Are you tired of struggling to get important work done and apps and to-do lists are not helping as much as they used to? Hello, my name is Kathleen Fort LICSW, LCSW and I am here to help. I am a psychotherapist with over twenty-five years of experience specializing in working with adults who have ADHD, think they might have ADHD, or adults who simply struggle with avoidance, procrastination, anxiety and work/life balance.
(217) 819-0281 View (217) 819-0281
Photo of Joshua Kline, PsyD, Psychological Associate
Joshua Kline
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
I provide individual therapy for a range of presentations, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, gender/sexuality, identity development, relationship & interpersonal issues, ADHD, life transitions, and stress.
I believe in providing a safe, judgment-free, and supportive space for my clients. From a cognitive-behavioral approach, I aim to balance symptom relief in the present while managing life’s challenges and uncertainties. Along with this, I help develop insights and depth into why one’s struggles may be happening. I value a strong therapeutic relationship as a channel for understanding and a way to foster open and honest dialogue. My therapy style can be described as compassionate, direct, solution-oriented, and mind-body-focused. Together, we will create a personalized and flexible plan to create a more authentic and fulfilling life.
I provide individual therapy for a range of presentations, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, gender/sexuality, identity development, relationship & interpersonal issues, ADHD, life transitions, and stress.
I believe in providing a safe, judgment-free, and supportive space for my clients. From a cognitive-behavioral approach, I aim to balance symptom relief in the present while managing life’s challenges and uncertainties. Along with this, I help develop insights and depth into why one’s struggles may be happening. I value a strong therapeutic relationship as a channel for understanding and a way to foster open and honest dialogue. My therapy style can be described as compassionate, direct, solution-oriented, and mind-body-focused. Together, we will create a personalized and flexible plan to create a more authentic and fulfilling life.
(202) 816-7916 View (202) 816-7916
Photo of Rebecca Tolbert, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Tolbert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20019
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in ADHD, and I understand how executive functioning issues can impact every area of life.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Maybe the pandemic resurfaced old issues and messed with your coping strategies. Maybe reintegrating into the world has been harder than you expected. If you already struggled with focus, motivation, and organization, all of these issues can pile on top of each other. You want to feel grounded and joyful, with a life that fits and feels like your own... not one you have to shove yourself into. You want your relationships to thrive. You deserve to wake up in the morning and feel ready and excited for the day ahead.
I specialize in ADHD, and I understand how executive functioning issues can impact every area of life.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Maybe the pandemic resurfaced old issues and messed with your coping strategies. Maybe reintegrating into the world has been harder than you expected. If you already struggled with focus, motivation, and organization, all of these issues can pile on top of each other. You want to feel grounded and joyful, with a life that fits and feels like your own... not one you have to shove yourself into. You want your relationships to thrive. You deserve to wake up in the morning and feel ready and excited for the day ahead.
View
Photo of Kristin Young - Cherish Life with Dignity, LCPC-S, LPC, ADHD-CS
Cherish Life with Dignity
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC-S, LPC, ADHD-CS
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20010
I am a Nationally Certified ADHD Clinical Professional and trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Feeling overwhelmed with life, experiencing a loss of self-worth and confidence, or facing challenges in your relationships are common struggles many people face. Addressing these issues requires a holistic approach that nurtures the mind, body, and spirit, promoting overall well-being. Help center your thoughts and promote mental clarity; while setting realistic and achievable goals to give your life direction and purpose. Feel supported in managing anxiety, depression and stress among other things. The goal is to empower you so that you walk away knowing you’ve achieved your therapeutic and life goals.
I am a Nationally Certified ADHD Clinical Professional and trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Feeling overwhelmed with life, experiencing a loss of self-worth and confidence, or facing challenges in your relationships are common struggles many people face. Addressing these issues requires a holistic approach that nurtures the mind, body, and spirit, promoting overall well-being. Help center your thoughts and promote mental clarity; while setting realistic and achievable goals to give your life direction and purpose. Feel supported in managing anxiety, depression and stress among other things. The goal is to empower you so that you walk away knowing you’ve achieved your therapeutic and life goals.
(888) 564-7191 View (888) 564-7191
Photo of Katie Alderdice, MSW, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Alderdice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
Not accepting new clients
I am a Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW) in the District of Columbia. I have extensive experience working with children and teenagers ages 5-18, as well as adults. I have worked with individuals who experience ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, anger outbursts, and stage of life transitions. I also have experience working with families who are experiencing anxiety, depression, ineffective communication styles and trauma.
I am a Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW) in the District of Columbia. I have extensive experience working with children and teenagers ages 5-18, as well as adults. I have worked with individuals who experience ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, anger outbursts, and stage of life transitions. I also have experience working with families who are experiencing anxiety, depression, ineffective communication styles and trauma.
(202) 946-4217 View (202) 946-4217
Photo of Chinwendu (Chewy) Utom, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chinwendu (Chewy) Utom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Greetings! My name is Chinwendu "Chewy" Utom-Toe and I am a psychotherapist at Revo Well. I am a psychotherapist at Revo Well. We are a tribe of extraordinary clinicians. My goal is to provide clinical services tailored to meet the needs of each specific client - no cookie cutter model here! Anxiety, ADHD, depression, and/or unresolved trauma getting in your way? I can help. Struggling with navigating the dynamics of a difficult, coparenting relationship? I can help. Is your child displaying challenging behaviors? I can help. Not sure if your current romantic relationship or career is where you really want to/should be? I can help.
Greetings! My name is Chinwendu "Chewy" Utom-Toe and I am a psychotherapist at Revo Well. I am a psychotherapist at Revo Well. We are a tribe of extraordinary clinicians. My goal is to provide clinical services tailored to meet the needs of each specific client - no cookie cutter model here! Anxiety, ADHD, depression, and/or unresolved trauma getting in your way? I can help. Struggling with navigating the dynamics of a difficult, coparenting relationship? I can help. Is your child displaying challenging behaviors? I can help. Not sure if your current romantic relationship or career is where you really want to/should be? I can help.
(202) 902-9372 View (202) 902-9372
Photo of Schuyler C Cunningham - The DC Center for Neurocognitive Excellence, LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The DC Center for Neurocognitive Excellence
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006
We are experts at assessing and treating ADD/ADHD, PTSD, and trauma symptoms.
The Center for Neurocognitive Excellence integrates assessments, counseling, and neurofeedback to best identify the source of your stress and effectively treat it so that we can reduce the intensity, duration, and frequency of your most stressful moments. We are experts at integrating approaches to best suit your needs. Listening and working with you is a huge source of joy!
We are experts at assessing and treating ADD/ADHD, PTSD, and trauma symptoms.
The Center for Neurocognitive Excellence integrates assessments, counseling, and neurofeedback to best identify the source of your stress and effectively treat it so that we can reduce the intensity, duration, and frequency of your most stressful moments. We are experts at integrating approaches to best suit your needs. Listening and working with you is a huge source of joy!
(202) 499-6780 View (202) 499-6780
Photo of Carolyn Angelo - Adult ADHD Center of Washington, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adult ADHD Center of Washington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
Identified as "Top Therapists" treating ADHD by "Washingtonian" magazine. Our focus and expertise is helping you recognize if you have adult ADHD and learn the most effective strategies for dealing with ADHD in your work, home, and in relationships. Our approach is positive and based on your unique set of strengths and talents. We are committed to helping you achieve personal goals that no longer need to be out of your reach.
Identified as "Top Therapists" treating ADHD by "Washingtonian" magazine. Our focus and expertise is helping you recognize if you have adult ADHD and learn the most effective strategies for dealing with ADHD in your work, home, and in relationships. Our approach is positive and based on your unique set of strengths and talents. We are committed to helping you achieve personal goals that no longer need to be out of your reach.
(202) 232-3766 View (202) 232-3766
Photo of Brooke Baker, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brooke Baker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
I specialize in ADHD, RSD, and ASD as well as the anxiety, depression and difficulty navigating relationships that come with them.
My clients are highly motivated to overcome their barriers to achieving stability, healthy relationships, & more feelings of joy and fulfillment. As someone who is neurodivergent, I appreciate the difficulty in achieving what we desire when our unique and adaptive ways of doing most things is widely misunderstood and unsupported. I use an individualized approach with each client and I think it is far more important to consider a person's unique circumstances, symptoms, & characteristics as opposed to taking a universal approach to treating specific diagnoses.
I specialize in ADHD, RSD, and ASD as well as the anxiety, depression and difficulty navigating relationships that come with them.
My clients are highly motivated to overcome their barriers to achieving stability, healthy relationships, & more feelings of joy and fulfillment. As someone who is neurodivergent, I appreciate the difficulty in achieving what we desire when our unique and adaptive ways of doing most things is widely misunderstood and unsupported. I use an individualized approach with each client and I think it is far more important to consider a person's unique circumstances, symptoms, & characteristics as opposed to taking a universal approach to treating specific diagnoses.
(202) 471-1954 View (202) 471-1954
Photo of Amber Lynn Smith, LCSW-C, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber Lynn Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
I'm a licensed therapist with a specialization in ADHD, trauma, and anxiety. My role is to provide compassionate support, structure, validation, and tools to help you improve your mental health and accomplish your goals.
I'm a licensed therapist with a specialization in ADHD, trauma, and anxiety. My role is to provide compassionate support, structure, validation, and tools to help you improve your mental health and accomplish your goals.
(202) 902-6320 View (202) 902-6320
Photo of Nick Donahue - Nick Donahue LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nick Donahue LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20003  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
When searching for a therapist for ADHD, it can be frustrating to feel like you're coming up empty. But what if it didn’t need to be this way? I specialize in working with ADHD, anxiety/depression, and relationship issues from college age through midlife and beyond.
When searching for a therapist for ADHD, it can be frustrating to feel like you're coming up empty. But what if it didn’t need to be this way? I specialize in working with ADHD, anxiety/depression, and relationship issues from college age through midlife and beyond.
(202) 931-7373 View (202) 931-7373
Photo of Lauren Finney, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Finney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
My specialty and passion is working with adolescents: teenagers, college students, and young adults; especially around anxiety and ADHD.
I view therapy as an opportunity for every person to have a confidential, supportive, and guided experience towards personal growth and facing life’s unending challenges. My style of therapy is very much like my personality: down to earth, humble, funny, compassionate, slightly sarcastic, direct, and blunt in a loving way. I have a sense of humor about myself, and I encourage my clients to adopt the same attitude. Each client who walks into my office comes with a unique history of experiences. To personalize treatment I use a combination of evidence-based therapeutic techniques to best support, explore, interpret, and solve.
My specialty and passion is working with adolescents: teenagers, college students, and young adults; especially around anxiety and ADHD.
I view therapy as an opportunity for every person to have a confidential, supportive, and guided experience towards personal growth and facing life’s unending challenges. My style of therapy is very much like my personality: down to earth, humble, funny, compassionate, slightly sarcastic, direct, and blunt in a loving way. I have a sense of humor about myself, and I encourage my clients to adopt the same attitude. Each client who walks into my office comes with a unique history of experiences. To personalize treatment I use a combination of evidence-based therapeutic techniques to best support, explore, interpret, and solve.
View
Photo of Jessica Sandham Swope, PhD, Psychologist
Jessica Sandham Swope
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
For adults and college students who struggle with inattention and procrastination, including those with ADHD, I also offer a structured, goal-oriented "coaching" intervention aimed to keep clients motivated, organized, and on track.
I strive to provide a collaborative and supportive working space for individual clients or couples with a range of presenting concerns. My clients tell me that they appreciate my warmth and practicality, as well as my willingness to provide an individualized treatment plan tailored to their specific needs. I believe that most clients' struggles-be they with depression, anxiety, attentional difficulties, or relationship issues-are born of and maintained by a range of factors. These factors may include past experiences, family history, biology, or unhelpful patterns of thinking.
For adults and college students who struggle with inattention and procrastination, including those with ADHD, I also offer a structured, goal-oriented "coaching" intervention aimed to keep clients motivated, organized, and on track.
I strive to provide a collaborative and supportive working space for individual clients or couples with a range of presenting concerns. My clients tell me that they appreciate my warmth and practicality, as well as my willingness to provide an individualized treatment plan tailored to their specific needs. I believe that most clients' struggles-be they with depression, anxiety, attentional difficulties, or relationship issues-are born of and maintained by a range of factors. These factors may include past experiences, family history, biology, or unhelpful patterns of thinking.
(202) 972-2494 View (202) 972-2494
Photo of Cheryl Shapiro, PhD, Psychologist
Cheryl Shapiro
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in assessment for children and adolescents. I conduct independent school admissions testing, as well as more comprehensive psychoeducational evaluations to assess for learning disorders, ADHD, and developmental delay. The goal of my evaluations is to identify my client's learning style and understand the individual as a whole person. I strive to provide feedback that is thorough, objective, well-reasoned, and understandable. My written reports include straightforward results and practical, solution-focused recommendations for parents and teachers. These reports are often used for educational planning and to request academic support and accommodations.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in assessment for children and adolescents. I conduct independent school admissions testing, as well as more comprehensive psychoeducational evaluations to assess for learning disorders, ADHD, and developmental delay. The goal of my evaluations is to identify my client's learning style and understand the individual as a whole person. I strive to provide feedback that is thorough, objective, well-reasoned, and understandable. My written reports include straightforward results and practical, solution-focused recommendations for parents and teachers. These reports are often used for educational planning and to request academic support and accommodations.
(202) 796-7068 View (202) 796-7068
Photo of Mark Simms - The Mind Center Llc, Pre-Licensed Professional
Mark Simms - The Mind Center Llc
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
With a Master’s and Education Specialist degree in School Psychology, I specialize in testing for ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Giftedness, IEP and 504 Plans, special needs, autism, trauma, depression, anxiety, self esteem issues, and more.
Are you ready to get top notch psych-educational evaluations, with no wait time? As a psychologist on The Mind Center's team, I understand the challenges you face when navigating your child's academic and emotional needs. My services are designed to pinpoint your child's strengths and areas of improvement. The mission? To team up with parents, their kids, and schools, creating a dynamic trio that supports every child in becoming their own hero with tailored intervention strategies. Through testing, challenges can turn into triumphs, and question marks into exclamation points. My approach is evidence-based and action-oriented.
With a Master’s and Education Specialist degree in School Psychology, I specialize in testing for ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Giftedness, IEP and 504 Plans, special needs, autism, trauma, depression, anxiety, self esteem issues, and more.
Are you ready to get top notch psych-educational evaluations, with no wait time? As a psychologist on The Mind Center's team, I understand the challenges you face when navigating your child's academic and emotional needs. My services are designed to pinpoint your child's strengths and areas of improvement. The mission? To team up with parents, their kids, and schools, creating a dynamic trio that supports every child in becoming their own hero with tailored intervention strategies. Through testing, challenges can turn into triumphs, and question marks into exclamation points. My approach is evidence-based and action-oriented.
(833) 680-2051 View (833) 680-2051
Photo of Conise Shaw, LGSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Conise Shaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Greetings! My name is Conise and I am a psychotherapist at Revo Well. We are a tribe of extraordinary clinicians dedicated to REVOlutionizing WELLness in the BIPOC community. My therapeutic approach is centered around creating safe and affirming healing spaces. I strive to provide the perfect balance of professionalism and utilization of strong clinical skills while also being completely down to earth and non-judgmental. I specialize in working with youth and young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, and ADHD, as well as individuals with a history of trauma.
Greetings! My name is Conise and I am a psychotherapist at Revo Well. We are a tribe of extraordinary clinicians dedicated to REVOlutionizing WELLness in the BIPOC community. My therapeutic approach is centered around creating safe and affirming healing spaces. I strive to provide the perfect balance of professionalism and utilization of strong clinical skills while also being completely down to earth and non-judgmental. I specialize in working with youth and young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, and ADHD, as well as individuals with a history of trauma.
(202) 946-3518 View (202) 946-3518
Photo of Victoria Rivera, LGSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Victoria Rivera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief/loss, trauma, chronic medical issues or any of the other issues that frequently plague our community? Is it that you can't put a finger on it, but just know something isn't right.
Greetings! My name is Victoria Rivera and I am a psychotherapist at Revo Well. We are a tribe of extraordinary clinicians dedicated to REVOlutionizing WELLness in the BIPOC community. As a therapist, providing a safe space and offering sound clinical services to members of the community of color is of the utmost importance to me. I enjoy working with individuals (adults and adolescents alike) who want to be their best selves; individuals who refuse to allow life challenges and symptoms associated with mental illness get the best of them.
Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief/loss, trauma, chronic medical issues or any of the other issues that frequently plague our community? Is it that you can't put a finger on it, but just know something isn't right.
Greetings! My name is Victoria Rivera and I am a psychotherapist at Revo Well. We are a tribe of extraordinary clinicians dedicated to REVOlutionizing WELLness in the BIPOC community. As a therapist, providing a safe space and offering sound clinical services to members of the community of color is of the utmost importance to me. I enjoy working with individuals (adults and adolescents alike) who want to be their best selves; individuals who refuse to allow life challenges and symptoms associated with mental illness get the best of them.
(202) 688-2073 View (202) 688-2073
1
...
ADHD Therapists

When should I seek treatment for ADHD?

You should seek treatment for ADHD if you consistently have difficulty with attention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity that interferes with your daily life. Symptoms of ADHD include the inability to sustain attention during tasks, difficulty organizing tasks and activities, being easily distracted, frequent fidgeting or squirming, and talking or interrupting excessively. If these symptoms interfere with your career, academics, or relationships—for example, consistently failing to complete professional projects on time—you should seek an evaluation for ADHD.

How does treatment for ADHD work?

Effective treatment for ADHD often consists of medication, behavioral therapy, and lifestyle changes. Stimulant medications such as Adderall and Ritalin work by altering levels of neurotransmitters in the brain; higher levels of dopamine and norepinephrine are known to improve attention and focus. Therapy works by helping people with ADHD understand the condition, discuss their areas of difficulty, and develop behavioral strategies to manage their symptoms. In some cases, modifying one’s diet and exercise can also help improve symptoms.

Are there specific medications for ADHD?

Medications to treat ADHD are generally stimulants, the most common are Adderall and Ritalin. There are two categories of stimulants: Amphetamines include Adderall, Dyanavel, Vyvanse, and Dexedrine, and methylphenidates include Ritalin, Concerta, Daytrana, Focalin, Quillichew, Quillivant, and Metadate. Non-stimulants and antidepressants may be used as an alternative if stimulants aren’t effective or viable for a particular patient.

How long does treatment for ADHD take?

It’s tough to give an exact time frame because everyone varies. In terms of medications, stimulants begin to work very soon after you take them, generally within the hour. It may take time to identify the right medication and dosage, but the medication itself is fast-acting. In terms of therapy, it takes time to develop skills and put them into practice, but you will likely see improvements within a few weeks or months.