ADHD Therapists in Virginia

Photo of Jennifer L Erickson Ph.d. Lpc, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer L Erickson Ph.d. Lpc
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23229
As a Health Psychologist I focus on Health and Wellness in many ways. I enjoy helping people with Anxiety Due to a Medical Condition, Adult ADHD, Bariatric Pre & Post Surgical Testing and Counseling, and Rehabilitation Supportive Counseling (post-surgical or chronic illness). These areas might seem very different, but they are not. The common thread is that these areas focus on daily living. If we can't focus, due to worry, adhd, anxiety, recovery, or pain, then it is hard to fully live life. I enjoy helping people be the best version of themselves, no matter what they are going through.
As a Health Psychologist I focus on Health and Wellness in many ways. I enjoy helping people with Anxiety Due to a Medical Condition, Adult ADHD, Bariatric Pre & Post Surgical Testing and Counseling, and Rehabilitation Supportive Counseling (post-surgical or chronic illness). These areas might seem very different, but they are not. The common thread is that these areas focus on daily living. If we can't focus, due to worry, adhd, anxiety, recovery, or pain, then it is hard to fully live life. I enjoy helping people be the best version of themselves, no matter what they are going through.
(804) 531-4900 View (804) 531-4900
Photo of Taylor Hayden, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Taylor Hayden
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23225  (Online Only)
Does the thought of therapy feel boring and pointless to you? Need someone who can help explain what is going on in your brain (or spouse or adolescent's brain), how it impacts you, and practical ways to help deal with your challenges (anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, conflict, anger, addiction, men's issues, etc)? Let's meet to figure out how to get you to the place where you are becoming the person you want to be. I work with people from all backgrounds, but primarily work with adult and adolescent males.
Does the thought of therapy feel boring and pointless to you? Need someone who can help explain what is going on in your brain (or spouse or adolescent's brain), how it impacts you, and practical ways to help deal with your challenges (anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, conflict, anger, addiction, men's issues, etc)? Let's meet to figure out how to get you to the place where you are becoming the person you want to be. I work with people from all backgrounds, but primarily work with adult and adolescent males.
(804) 552-6045 View (804) 552-6045
Photo of Allison Anderson, PhD, Psychologist
Allison Anderson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
My practice is Psychological Testing Services, LLC (PTS, LLC), a resource for comprehensive psychological evaluations for adolescents and adults. Diagnostic questions may be about such conditions as learning disorders, ADHD/ADD, mental health concerns (for example, depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder), intellectual disability, personality evaluation, and psychoeducational evaluation to see if disability/academic accommodations are supported. I also provide IQ/admissions testing for children aged six and older for gifted programs/schools.
My practice is Psychological Testing Services, LLC (PTS, LLC), a resource for comprehensive psychological evaluations for adolescents and adults. Diagnostic questions may be about such conditions as learning disorders, ADHD/ADD, mental health concerns (for example, depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder), intellectual disability, personality evaluation, and psychoeducational evaluation to see if disability/academic accommodations are supported. I also provide IQ/admissions testing for children aged six and older for gifted programs/schools.
(434) 480-3888 View (434) 480-3888
Photo of Sharee Haskins - Sunny Daze Clinical Services, LLC, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sunny Daze Clinical Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046  (Online Only)
My areas of specialties are: Schizophrenia, Autism, ADHD/ADD, OCD, Depression, and more.
Everyone wants to be able to control and manage the things they are going through and experiencing in their life, and at times that can be hard. My counseling style is relaxed and person centered. I am attentive, empathetic, and have a wide range of skills and experience that can be tailored to best support you. I have over 10 years of mental health experience working with children, adolescents, young adults and adults with a range of diagnosis from Autism to Schizophrenia. Working with children is my passion. I have a good track record working with children and helping them achieve complete independence.
My areas of specialties are: Schizophrenia, Autism, ADHD/ADD, OCD, Depression, and more.
Everyone wants to be able to control and manage the things they are going through and experiencing in their life, and at times that can be hard. My counseling style is relaxed and person centered. I am attentive, empathetic, and have a wide range of skills and experience that can be tailored to best support you. I have over 10 years of mental health experience working with children, adolescents, young adults and adults with a range of diagnosis from Autism to Schizophrenia. Working with children is my passion. I have a good track record working with children and helping them achieve complete independence.
(571) 200-8595 View (571) 200-8595
Photo of Kassidy Schmidt, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kassidy Schmidt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22201
My expertise is working with issues of anxiety, depression, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and related conditions.
I help clients achieve their goals by utilizing research-based interventions within a warm, nonjudgmental, and supportive therapeutic space. In this fast-paced and often high-pressure region in which we live, having a place to talk about the things going on in your life without having to worry about how it might impact others can be a relief within itself. I specialize in working with children (ages 10+), adolescents, and adults.
My expertise is working with issues of anxiety, depression, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and related conditions.
I help clients achieve their goals by utilizing research-based interventions within a warm, nonjudgmental, and supportive therapeutic space. In this fast-paced and often high-pressure region in which we live, having a place to talk about the things going on in your life without having to worry about how it might impact others can be a relief within itself. I specialize in working with children (ages 10+), adolescents, and adults.
(571) 581-6364 View (571) 581-6364
Photo of Jonathan Clayton, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jonathan Clayton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Williamsburg, VA 23188
I graduated from The College of William and Mary with my M. Ed. in Marriage and Family Counseling in 2015. I have experience with emotionally distressed youth and their families, as well as couples and older adults. I work with clients who struggle with ADHD, ODD, Anxiety, Depression, Autism Spectrum, self-esteem and other issues. I utilize a person-centered, strengths based approach, with a strong systems focus to help clients identify sources of resiliency. Whenever possible, I involve the families, particularly the parents, in the treatment of youth. I have a passion for enriching the communication within a family.
I graduated from The College of William and Mary with my M. Ed. in Marriage and Family Counseling in 2015. I have experience with emotionally distressed youth and their families, as well as couples and older adults. I work with clients who struggle with ADHD, ODD, Anxiety, Depression, Autism Spectrum, self-esteem and other issues. I utilize a person-centered, strengths based approach, with a strong systems focus to help clients identify sources of resiliency. Whenever possible, I involve the families, particularly the parents, in the treatment of youth. I have a passion for enriching the communication within a family.
(757) 378-0598 View (757) 378-0598
Photo of Patrick Nisco, PhD, LCP, Psychologist
Patrick Nisco
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
Sterling, VA 20166
Nisco has over 20 years' experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families addressing concerns of ADHD, learning disorders, developmental disorders, Autism and Asperger's, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, addictions, sexual abuse, trauma, anger and stress management, and legal issues.
Dr. Nisco received his doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the Pacific Graduate School of Psychology in consortium with Stanford University in Palo Alto, California, and obtained his Masters in Clinical Psychology and Bachelors in Psychology from Loyola College. He has trained at Spring Grove Hospital Center in Catonsville, MD, Patuxent Institution minimal security prison in Sykesville, MD, National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in Menlo Park, CA, and Veterans Hospitals in Palo Alto, CA and Baltimore, MD. He has also been on staff at various community outpatient mental health centers.
Nisco has over 20 years' experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families addressing concerns of ADHD, learning disorders, developmental disorders, Autism and Asperger's, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, addictions, sexual abuse, trauma, anger and stress management, and legal issues.
Dr. Nisco received his doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the Pacific Graduate School of Psychology in consortium with Stanford University in Palo Alto, California, and obtained his Masters in Clinical Psychology and Bachelors in Psychology from Loyola College. He has trained at Spring Grove Hospital Center in Catonsville, MD, Patuxent Institution minimal security prison in Sykesville, MD, National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in Menlo Park, CA, and Veterans Hospitals in Palo Alto, CA and Baltimore, MD. He has also been on staff at various community outpatient mental health centers.
(703) 596-8238 View (703) 596-8238
Photo of Christina Ralph, PhD, Psychologist
Christina Ralph
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22312
Specializing in cognitive and educational testing for ADD / ADHD, learning disabilities (such as dyslexia), and emotional/ behavioral concerns. Comprehensive psychological evaluations with children, adolescents, college students and adults clarify the nature of an individual's struggles and uncover the unique strengths of each person. In addition, detailed evaluations provide necessary information to guide the process of developing IEP/ 504 Plans for students with attention issues, learning disorders, and social-emotional issues.
Specializing in cognitive and educational testing for ADD / ADHD, learning disabilities (such as dyslexia), and emotional/ behavioral concerns. Comprehensive psychological evaluations with children, adolescents, college students and adults clarify the nature of an individual's struggles and uncover the unique strengths of each person. In addition, detailed evaluations provide necessary information to guide the process of developing IEP/ 504 Plans for students with attention issues, learning disorders, and social-emotional issues.
(703) 592-9788 View (703) 592-9788
Photo of Susan Goodenberger, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan Goodenberger
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Midlothian, VA 23112  (Online Only)
Helping children and adult survivors of abuse and trauma has been my heart for many years. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, self-esteem, dating issues or parenting issues, I am here with practical, evidence-based techniques and care to help you. I have worked with all ages from infants to adults.
Helping children and adult survivors of abuse and trauma has been my heart for many years. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, self-esteem, dating issues or parenting issues, I am here with practical, evidence-based techniques and care to help you. I have worked with all ages from infants to adults.
(804) 657-4589 View (804) 657-4589
Photo of Sarah Ince, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Ince
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vienna, VA 22182
If you or your child is struggling with life's challenges, please remember that these challenges do not define you. You are so much more than your challenges, and it would be my honor to help you to truly feel that. Clients I work with may be seeking relief from symptoms of anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, a body-focused repetitive behavior such as hair-pulling (trichotillomania) or skin-picking, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, high-functioning autism, and more. I also work with children experiencing bullying and those who bully others.
If you or your child is struggling with life's challenges, please remember that these challenges do not define you. You are so much more than your challenges, and it would be my honor to help you to truly feel that. Clients I work with may be seeking relief from symptoms of anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, a body-focused repetitive behavior such as hair-pulling (trichotillomania) or skin-picking, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, high-functioning autism, and more. I also work with children experiencing bullying and those who bully others.
(571) 487-7560 View (571) 487-7560
Photo of Jennifer Entwistle, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Entwistle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Herndon, VA 20171
Waitlist for new clients
I work with children, teens and adults struggling with anxiety, ADHD, and autism.
You want to appear competent and put-together, but are struggling internally. You’re someone who likes tackling challenges and exciting projects, but gets tripped up by mundane things. It leaves you feeling frustrated and ashamed of yourself. You look around and it seems like everyone else is effortlessly balancing all of their responsibilities. Like there must be something wrong with you, or you weren’t paying attention when they handed out the life instruction manual. But you’re ready to make a change - you’re ready to feel in control and content with yourself and the life you’ve created. I want to help you get there.
I work with children, teens and adults struggling with anxiety, ADHD, and autism.
You want to appear competent and put-together, but are struggling internally. You’re someone who likes tackling challenges and exciting projects, but gets tripped up by mundane things. It leaves you feeling frustrated and ashamed of yourself. You look around and it seems like everyone else is effortlessly balancing all of their responsibilities. Like there must be something wrong with you, or you weren’t paying attention when they handed out the life instruction manual. But you’re ready to make a change - you’re ready to feel in control and content with yourself and the life you’ve created. I want to help you get there.
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Photo of Barbara Hernandez - Dr. Barbara Hernandez, Clinical Psychologist, PhD, MS, LCP, CSOTP, Psychologist
Dr. Barbara Hernandez, Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD, MS, LCP, CSOTP
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
ADHD testing, psychological evaluation, psychosexual testing, and assessment of cognitive capabilities, executive functioning, attention/concentration, socio-emotional, personality, and behavioral functioning can focus treatment for best results.
Are you or your teenager experiencing difficulty? In therapy, you can develop coping skills to address depression, anxiety, psychosis, addiction, eating disorders, trauma, and problematic sexual behaviors. You can reduce family conflict and live a healthier and more fulfilling life. Therapy will use evidence-based approaches for sustainable improvement. Contact me via phone, text, or email. I am looking forward to helping you! You are not alone.
ADHD testing, psychological evaluation, psychosexual testing, and assessment of cognitive capabilities, executive functioning, attention/concentration, socio-emotional, personality, and behavioral functioning can focus treatment for best results.
Are you or your teenager experiencing difficulty? In therapy, you can develop coping skills to address depression, anxiety, psychosis, addiction, eating disorders, trauma, and problematic sexual behaviors. You can reduce family conflict and live a healthier and more fulfilling life. Therapy will use evidence-based approaches for sustainable improvement. Contact me via phone, text, or email. I am looking forward to helping you! You are not alone.
(571) 487-8850 View (571) 487-8850
Photo of Lee Saecker Ridens, PhD, LCP, NCSP, Psychologist
Lee Saecker Ridens
Psychologist, PhD, LCP, NCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23236
I provide comprehensive psychological & educational testing for children (age 6 and up), adolescents, and adults. I have worked with individuals who have a range of disabilities, from severe to gifted (including twice exceptional students). Areas of assessment include (but are not limited to): Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Intellectual Disabilities, Cognitive Delays, Behavior Disorders, and Learning Disabilities, as well as Anxiety Disorders and Mood Disorders. The referral question(s) guide the assessment process so the comprehensive evaluation is tailored to individual needs of the client.
I provide comprehensive psychological & educational testing for children (age 6 and up), adolescents, and adults. I have worked with individuals who have a range of disabilities, from severe to gifted (including twice exceptional students). Areas of assessment include (but are not limited to): Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Intellectual Disabilities, Cognitive Delays, Behavior Disorders, and Learning Disabilities, as well as Anxiety Disorders and Mood Disorders. The referral question(s) guide the assessment process so the comprehensive evaluation is tailored to individual needs of the client.
(804) 446-6264 View (804) 446-6264
Photo of Gazala A Ansari, PhD, Psychologist
Gazala A Ansari
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
Prior to private practice, I worked at universities, the Women's Center in VA, and at schools in the DMV providing therapy and conducting evaluations for ADHD/ADD, learning disabilities, emotional challenges, and neuropsychological issues (ages 4+).
Asking for help can often be an indication of courage and strength. All individuals have life issues and knowing when to seek help is essential to well being. I am a psychologist who works diligently with my clients to identify and examine maladaptive patterns that cause obstacles to living well. Through this process, the elements needed for positive change (e.g., insight, acceptance) materialize and help move one to live a more healthy and fulfilling life. In therapy, I place great value on the relationship between the therapist and the client, so I strive to create a safe, comfortable, confidential, and nonjudgmental environment.
Prior to private practice, I worked at universities, the Women's Center in VA, and at schools in the DMV providing therapy and conducting evaluations for ADHD/ADD, learning disabilities, emotional challenges, and neuropsychological issues (ages 4+).
Asking for help can often be an indication of courage and strength. All individuals have life issues and knowing when to seek help is essential to well being. I am a psychologist who works diligently with my clients to identify and examine maladaptive patterns that cause obstacles to living well. Through this process, the elements needed for positive change (e.g., insight, acceptance) materialize and help move one to live a more healthy and fulfilling life. In therapy, I place great value on the relationship between the therapist and the client, so I strive to create a safe, comfortable, confidential, and nonjudgmental environment.
(703) 468-8388 View (703) 468-8388
Photo of Timothy H Barclay - Advanced Psychotherapeutics, PhD, Psychologist
Advanced Psychotherapeutics
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forest, VA 24551
Our motto: "We don't treat problems, we fix them." We offer the best in counseling and alternative medicine in Virginia. I have been trained in research applications and the clinical use of non-invasive brain stimulation at Harvard Medical School. I'm also trained in neurofeedback. Our therapists treat a variety of disorders to include ADHD, Autism, Mood disorders, substance abuse, marriage and family, and others. We offer the most comprehensive services available in Virginia. In addition to treatment, we are also a training and research facility. Whether you're looking for therapy, life coaching, or brain stimulation, we can help.
Our motto: "We don't treat problems, we fix them." We offer the best in counseling and alternative medicine in Virginia. I have been trained in research applications and the clinical use of non-invasive brain stimulation at Harvard Medical School. I'm also trained in neurofeedback. Our therapists treat a variety of disorders to include ADHD, Autism, Mood disorders, substance abuse, marriage and family, and others. We offer the most comprehensive services available in Virginia. In addition to treatment, we are also a training and research facility. Whether you're looking for therapy, life coaching, or brain stimulation, we can help.
(434) 446-1018 View (434) 446-1018
Photo of Shushan Campbell - Campbell Integrative Psychological Services, PhD, LCP, Psychologist
Campbell Integrative Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22102
Campbell Integrative Psychological Services specialize in comprehensive psychological assessments & outpatient psychotherapy. Assessments can help you improve your overall functioning in life, school/college, or your place of employment. Areas of clinical focus include: Psychological, Neuro-psychological and Psycho-educational assessments, Diagnostic Clarification, ADHD, Learning Disabilities, and Career Interests Assessments. We also offer academic planning and consultation with schools regarding students’ educational planning. Psychotherapy work focuses on depression, anxiety, grief & loss, and transitional life issues.
Campbell Integrative Psychological Services specialize in comprehensive psychological assessments & outpatient psychotherapy. Assessments can help you improve your overall functioning in life, school/college, or your place of employment. Areas of clinical focus include: Psychological, Neuro-psychological and Psycho-educational assessments, Diagnostic Clarification, ADHD, Learning Disabilities, and Career Interests Assessments. We also offer academic planning and consultation with schools regarding students’ educational planning. Psychotherapy work focuses on depression, anxiety, grief & loss, and transitional life issues.
(703) 686-5026 View (703) 686-5026
Photo of Claire Butler, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Claire Butler
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20175
As a dedicated Master of Social Work (MSW), I am passionate about helping youth and families develop tools to navigate the challenges of childhood and adolescence. I am committed to providing a safe space where clients can express themselves, process their emotions, and grow in meaningful ways. My experience as a nanny has shaped my love for working with children and allowed me to build strong communication skills with caregivers.
As a dedicated Master of Social Work (MSW), I am passionate about helping youth and families develop tools to navigate the challenges of childhood and adolescence. I am committed to providing a safe space where clients can express themselves, process their emotions, and grow in meaningful ways. My experience as a nanny has shaped my love for working with children and allowed me to build strong communication skills with caregivers.
(571) 604-5210 View (571) 604-5210
Photo of Briana Sinden, MEd, LPC-Res
Briana Sinden
Resident in Counseling, MEd, LPC-Res
Verified Verified
Glen Allen, VA 23060
My clinical specialties include ADHD, relational conflict, identity work, and substance misuse.
Are your relationships causing emotional instability? Is effective communication, boundary-setting, or managing your mood a challenge? Perhaps your headspace and sense of self is clouded by doubt and self-criticism. Maybe you feel disconnected from who you are and where you’re going, and how you spend your time. I'd like to help. In our sessions, I support my clients to grow, reflect, and develop skills to live a life sparked by joy and fulfillment. We process the past and its impact in the present, and foster deep understanding which strengthens the connection to mind and body. In our work, my clients find ease and empowerment.
My clinical specialties include ADHD, relational conflict, identity work, and substance misuse.
Are your relationships causing emotional instability? Is effective communication, boundary-setting, or managing your mood a challenge? Perhaps your headspace and sense of self is clouded by doubt and self-criticism. Maybe you feel disconnected from who you are and where you’re going, and how you spend your time. I'd like to help. In our sessions, I support my clients to grow, reflect, and develop skills to live a life sparked by joy and fulfillment. We process the past and its impact in the present, and foster deep understanding which strengthens the connection to mind and body. In our work, my clients find ease and empowerment.
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Photo of Cheryl N. Desvernine, LPC, BCN, Counselor
Cheryl N. Desvernine
Counselor, LPC, BCN
Verified Verified
Glen Allen, VA 23060
Helping people live a better life is my passion. Do you struggle with anxiety, childhood trauma, PTSD, depression and/or ADHD that affects your daily life, relationships and ability to function? It might be that you are learning to set boundaries, working through a loss, or life transition or helping you change a pattern of behavior that is keeping you stuck. Our goal is to help you feel better so you can live the life you’ve always dreamed of!
Helping people live a better life is my passion. Do you struggle with anxiety, childhood trauma, PTSD, depression and/or ADHD that affects your daily life, relationships and ability to function? It might be that you are learning to set boundaries, working through a loss, or life transition or helping you change a pattern of behavior that is keeping you stuck. Our goal is to help you feel better so you can live the life you’ve always dreamed of!
(804) 607-8761 View (804) 607-8761
Photo of Craig Foster, PhD, LCP, Psychologist
Craig Foster
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Williamsburg, VA 23185
I use a variety of cognitive behavioral and interpersonal approaches to guide my work and enjoy treating a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress, relationships, self-esteem, and trauma.
Life is complicated but thankfully, therapy can help. I am honored to help each of my clients better understand themselves and make meaning of their lives using a collaborative and integrative approach. I work with each of my clients to identify the unique aspects of their situation and together, we develop a plan for how to reach their treatment goals. The relationship created between client and therapist is the most important aspect of my work, and I strive to understand the specific concerns which bring a person to therapy. By building trust over time, positive change is possible.
I use a variety of cognitive behavioral and interpersonal approaches to guide my work and enjoy treating a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress, relationships, self-esteem, and trauma.
Life is complicated but thankfully, therapy can help. I am honored to help each of my clients better understand themselves and make meaning of their lives using a collaborative and integrative approach. I work with each of my clients to identify the unique aspects of their situation and together, we develop a plan for how to reach their treatment goals. The relationship created between client and therapist is the most important aspect of my work, and I strive to understand the specific concerns which bring a person to therapy. By building trust over time, positive change is possible.
(757) 780-1382 View (757) 780-1382
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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.