ADHD Therapists in Vancouver, WA

Photo of Adam Wade-Garrett, LMHC, Counselor
Adam Wade-Garrett
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98662
My main areas of focus are in treating ADHD, Anxiety, Depression and issues pertaining to identity, spirituality or career development.
Counseling has a well-earned reputation for being a messy, frightening process. But you already knew that, and you came here anyway. I've treated a wide variety of struggles and time and time again the one trait I've seen lead to success is the willingness to, as Ms. Frizzle used to say, "take chances, make mistakes and get messy." So, if that's what you're here to do, then let's get to work.
My main areas of focus are in treating ADHD, Anxiety, Depression and issues pertaining to identity, spirituality or career development.
Counseling has a well-earned reputation for being a messy, frightening process. But you already knew that, and you came here anyway. I've treated a wide variety of struggles and time and time again the one trait I've seen lead to success is the willingness to, as Ms. Frizzle used to say, "take chances, make mistakes and get messy." So, if that's what you're here to do, then let's get to work.
(360) 382-4509 View (360) 382-4509
Photo of Alex Bardole, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alex Bardole
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98663
Since graduating in 2017, I have primarily worked with children, adolescents, and adults with depression, anxiety, and ADHD.
Life is stressful; especially as a teen or young adult! So many life changes, school pressure is hard, and relationships with friends and parents can feel overwhelming. As a queer, neurodivergent therapist, I have the lived experience and know how hard it can be to constantly worry, feel shame about making small mistakes like forgetting important dates, and wonder if you are 'enough'. Luckily, I have designed my practice to help those with ADHD/ASD, Anxiety, and those in the LGBTQIA+ community overcome life's challenges. I would love to talk with you more about what YOU need! Reach out today!
Since graduating in 2017, I have primarily worked with children, adolescents, and adults with depression, anxiety, and ADHD.
Life is stressful; especially as a teen or young adult! So many life changes, school pressure is hard, and relationships with friends and parents can feel overwhelming. As a queer, neurodivergent therapist, I have the lived experience and know how hard it can be to constantly worry, feel shame about making small mistakes like forgetting important dates, and wonder if you are 'enough'. Luckily, I have designed my practice to help those with ADHD/ASD, Anxiety, and those in the LGBTQIA+ community overcome life's challenges. I would love to talk with you more about what YOU need! Reach out today!
(360) 215-2826 View (360) 215-2826
Photo of undefined - Alternative Behavioral Therapy, MA, LMHC, BCN, Counselor
Alternative Behavioral Therapy
Counselor, MA, LMHC, BCN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98683
Alternative Behavioral Therapy specializes in the integration of talk therapy and Neurofeedback which is commonly used for the treatment and normalization of ADHD. We can incorporate this practice into PTSD, depression, sleep disorders, learning disabilities, anxiety, and much more. For those adept in this field, we practice Infra-low, SMR training, theta/beta ratio, and alpha-theta deep state processing as well as ISF (Infra-slow frequency training). For disorders resulting from trauma, EMDR may be incorporated as deemed appropriate. Other modality options may include Play Therapy or life coaching as well.
Alternative Behavioral Therapy specializes in the integration of talk therapy and Neurofeedback which is commonly used for the treatment and normalization of ADHD. We can incorporate this practice into PTSD, depression, sleep disorders, learning disabilities, anxiety, and much more. For those adept in this field, we practice Infra-low, SMR training, theta/beta ratio, and alpha-theta deep state processing as well as ISF (Infra-slow frequency training). For disorders resulting from trauma, EMDR may be incorporated as deemed appropriate. Other modality options may include Play Therapy or life coaching as well.
(855) 838-3053 View (855) 838-3053
Photo of Chris Hansson, MA, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chris Hansson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98684
I am dually licensed in Washington and Oregon and work individually with adults who are looking for support around their mental health: Neurodivergence- ADHD, ASD; Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, life transitions, such as grief/loss, significant changes such as child birth, separation/divorce, job change, substance use, illness.
New year, new you? It's time for a change: You are tired of the same issues and patterns popping up in times of stress (which seems to be all the time these days). Let's focus on the roadblocks in your life, and creating a plan to overcome them at a pace that feels comfortable to you.
I am dually licensed in Washington and Oregon and work individually with adults who are looking for support around their mental health: Neurodivergence- ADHD, ASD; Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, life transitions, such as grief/loss, significant changes such as child birth, separation/divorce, job change, substance use, illness.
New year, new you? It's time for a change: You are tired of the same issues and patterns popping up in times of stress (which seems to be all the time these days). Let's focus on the roadblocks in your life, and creating a plan to overcome them at a pace that feels comfortable to you.
(503) 966-4046 View (503) 966-4046
Photo of undefined - Aspire Behavioral Health, Michelle Newton, MA, MFT, LMHC, CMHS, QMHP, Counselor
Aspire Behavioral Health, Michelle Newton
Counselor, MA, MFT, LMHC, CMHS, QMHP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98662
I specialize in individual therapy; couples therapy; family therapy; ADHD, Aspergers, and Autism; Trauma & PTSD; anxiety; fear; depression; human sexuality & gender (LGBTQ); drug & alcohol.
"Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans". With over 18 years in the field, I am an experienced clinician. Challenges in your relationship as a couple, dealing with an explosive child or teenager, depression, anxiety, trauma, and struggling to have a healthier, happier relationship as a couple, family or individual? Here's where you can take your first step. There is hope and things can change. I am a down-to-earth therapist with a warm and caring nature. I provide an empathetic and safe place where you can be yourself without fear of judgment.
I specialize in individual therapy; couples therapy; family therapy; ADHD, Aspergers, and Autism; Trauma & PTSD; anxiety; fear; depression; human sexuality & gender (LGBTQ); drug & alcohol.
"Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans". With over 18 years in the field, I am an experienced clinician. Challenges in your relationship as a couple, dealing with an explosive child or teenager, depression, anxiety, trauma, and struggling to have a healthier, happier relationship as a couple, family or individual? Here's where you can take your first step. There is hope and things can change. I am a down-to-earth therapist with a warm and caring nature. I provide an empathetic and safe place where you can be yourself without fear of judgment.
(360) 633-2300 View (360) 633-2300
Photo of Mindy Perry, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mindy Perry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98683
A couple of Mindy's specialties include people in life transitions (such as young adults or parents with children who are becoming independent), ADHD, and couples (Mindy has been trained through Level 3 of the Gottman Method).
Mindy Perry is a licensed clinical social worker who has been in practice since 1998. She has a background in inpatient psychiatric, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient program, and outpatient therapy. Mindy earned her bachelors in psychology from the University of California, Riverside and her master of social work from University of Denver. She has been offering outpatient psychotherapy since 2011 to adult individuals, couples and groups. Mindy comes from a position of partnering with the individual or couple to live according to their own values.
A couple of Mindy's specialties include people in life transitions (such as young adults or parents with children who are becoming independent), ADHD, and couples (Mindy has been trained through Level 3 of the Gottman Method).
Mindy Perry is a licensed clinical social worker who has been in practice since 1998. She has a background in inpatient psychiatric, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient program, and outpatient therapy. Mindy earned her bachelors in psychology from the University of California, Riverside and her master of social work from University of Denver. She has been offering outpatient psychotherapy since 2011 to adult individuals, couples and groups. Mindy comes from a position of partnering with the individual or couple to live according to their own values.
(360) 565-5879 View (360) 565-5879
Photo of Liz Beaty, LMHCA, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Liz Beaty
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHCA, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98684  (Online Only)
My commitment is centered on assisting autistic/ADHD individuals in navigating through the complexities of trauma and relational conflicts.
Embarking on the journey to find a therapist signifies a recognition that something in your life needs attention and care. Life's stressors and traumatic experiences can make it feel as though your world is unraveling. The simple act of reaching out for help may seem overwhelming, and I am here to ease the process of change, to be a supportive ally on your path. My therapy style is designed for neurodivergent individuals aged 16+. Together, we'll explore distinctive pathways, empowering you to face challenges with renewed hope and a unique perspective shaped by the autistic/ADHD experience.
My commitment is centered on assisting autistic/ADHD individuals in navigating through the complexities of trauma and relational conflicts.
Embarking on the journey to find a therapist signifies a recognition that something in your life needs attention and care. Life's stressors and traumatic experiences can make it feel as though your world is unraveling. The simple act of reaching out for help may seem overwhelming, and I am here to ease the process of change, to be a supportive ally on your path. My therapy style is designed for neurodivergent individuals aged 16+. Together, we'll explore distinctive pathways, empowering you to face challenges with renewed hope and a unique perspective shaped by the autistic/ADHD experience.
(360) 634-4476 View (360) 634-4476
Photo of Courtney Smith, MEd, LMHC, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Courtney Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LMHC, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98684
Always feeling inadequate from your drive to be perfect? Perfectionism comes with feeling uneasy when making mistakes, high expectations, self-criticism, and good enough is unacceptable. Thinking that being perfect will lead to a happier life usually lends to finding an unfulfilled life. Growth transpires when you let go of holding yourself to the unattainable standards. I specialize in helping clients starting at age 8 to adult struggling with perfectionism, anxiety, Autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, spirituality development, behavioral issues, LGBTQIA support, and relationship issues.
Always feeling inadequate from your drive to be perfect? Perfectionism comes with feeling uneasy when making mistakes, high expectations, self-criticism, and good enough is unacceptable. Thinking that being perfect will lead to a happier life usually lends to finding an unfulfilled life. Growth transpires when you let go of holding yourself to the unattainable standards. I specialize in helping clients starting at age 8 to adult struggling with perfectionism, anxiety, Autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, spirituality development, behavioral issues, LGBTQIA support, and relationship issues.
(360) 230-5632 View (360) 230-5632
Photo of Lindy Treece, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindy Treece
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98660
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in everything neurodiversity-related. Autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, and more! We exist in a diverse world with a variety of races, genders, cultures, etc, so why not brains? My clients are people who have grown up always feeling different, whether they knew of their neurodivergence from a young age or are just now navigating a late diagnosis. Neurodivergent people often experience a variety of other conditions (anxiety, depression, trauma, etc.) that are closely intertwined and may be a consequence of living in a world that wasn't built for us and our needs. Yes, I say "us"! I'm autistic!
I specialize in everything neurodiversity-related. Autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, and more! We exist in a diverse world with a variety of races, genders, cultures, etc, so why not brains? My clients are people who have grown up always feeling different, whether they knew of their neurodivergence from a young age or are just now navigating a late diagnosis. Neurodivergent people often experience a variety of other conditions (anxiety, depression, trauma, etc.) that are closely intertwined and may be a consequence of living in a world that wasn't built for us and our needs. Yes, I say "us"! I'm autistic!
(360) 996-1125 View (360) 996-1125
Photo of Ashley Taylor, PsyD, Psychologist
Ashley Taylor
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98683
Dr. Taylor and her team at Wonder Tree Developmental Psychology integrate creativity, fun, and compassion into their work. We specialize in providing comprehensive, thoughtful, and trauma-informed services for children, teens, and adults including maternal/paternal mental health and support for pregnant and parenting families. We are able to provide thorough psychological, psycho-educational and trauma-informed evaluations to assess for ADHD, learning disabilities, trauma, attachment, autism, selective mutism, and more. We work collaboratively with parents, children, and teachers as needed.
Dr. Taylor and her team at Wonder Tree Developmental Psychology integrate creativity, fun, and compassion into their work. We specialize in providing comprehensive, thoughtful, and trauma-informed services for children, teens, and adults including maternal/paternal mental health and support for pregnant and parenting families. We are able to provide thorough psychological, psycho-educational and trauma-informed evaluations to assess for ADHD, learning disabilities, trauma, attachment, autism, selective mutism, and more. We work collaboratively with parents, children, and teachers as needed.
(360) 564-5082 View (360) 564-5082
Photo of Kristen Doyle, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Doyle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98660
A warm "hello" to you! Are you navigating relationship issues and seeking guidance on communication and conflict resolution? Do have ADHD and seeking support and strategies to cope effectively in daily life? Have you experienced trauma and are you looking for a therapist that understands the complexities of trauma? What about dealing with anxiety, depression or facing significant life stressors or changes, such as career transitions, relationship changes or major life events? These are all areas I specialize in as a clinical therapist.
A warm "hello" to you! Are you navigating relationship issues and seeking guidance on communication and conflict resolution? Do have ADHD and seeking support and strategies to cope effectively in daily life? Have you experienced trauma and are you looking for a therapist that understands the complexities of trauma? What about dealing with anxiety, depression or facing significant life stressors or changes, such as career transitions, relationship changes or major life events? These are all areas I specialize in as a clinical therapist.
(206) 984-9582 View (206) 984-9582
Photo of Dr. Anson L Service, PsyD, LMHC
Dr. Anson L Service
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98665
Specializing in ADHD and Autism assessment, especially being able to recognize ASD and ADHD in adults, Dr. Anson Service and his team are expert in the area of Autism and ADHD with short wait times. With over 13 years of experience working professionally with neurodivergent individuals, he and his team are committed to treating clients with unconditional positive regard, and respect to get to the source of the issues quickly. No judgement. No "know-it-all-ism". No weirdness. Our assessments are designed to be brief and thorough, without anxiety or fear. We get it.
Specializing in ADHD and Autism assessment, especially being able to recognize ASD and ADHD in adults, Dr. Anson Service and his team are expert in the area of Autism and ADHD with short wait times. With over 13 years of experience working professionally with neurodivergent individuals, he and his team are committed to treating clients with unconditional positive regard, and respect to get to the source of the issues quickly. No judgement. No "know-it-all-ism". No weirdness. Our assessments are designed to be brief and thorough, without anxiety or fear. We get it.
(360) 979-1613 View (360) 979-1613
Photo of Anne Tucker, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Anne Tucker
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98661
Note: I am IN network with Kaiser. Through compassionate, professional counseling I am able to help people reduce anxiety and depression and lead more fulfilling lives. I work with adults of all ages with a focus on emerging adulthood (age 18-29). My specialties include helping people reduce the distressing symptoms related to anxiety, depression, concerning behaviors, life transition issues, and ADHD. During our sessions I will be engaged, interactive and provide helpful feedback as we work together to resolve the issues most relevant to you.
Note: I am IN network with Kaiser. Through compassionate, professional counseling I am able to help people reduce anxiety and depression and lead more fulfilling lives. I work with adults of all ages with a focus on emerging adulthood (age 18-29). My specialties include helping people reduce the distressing symptoms related to anxiety, depression, concerning behaviors, life transition issues, and ADHD. During our sessions I will be engaged, interactive and provide helpful feedback as we work together to resolve the issues most relevant to you.
(360) 780-7026 View (360) 780-7026
Photo of Anna Gavrishova, LMHC, PMHNP, Counselor
Anna Gavrishova
Counselor, LMHC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98662
My goal for treatment is to support, encourage and help you build confidence in your ability to handle life's difficulties (and, yes, that often presents itself as anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use and symptoms of trauma).
Go to halcyoncounseling.as.me/ to schedule a consult for my waitlist. I provide counseling & med management to individuals & families. Everyone experiences significant anxiety, sadness or emotional distress at some point in their lives, and most people have experienced some sort of traumatic event in their past. Seeking support during times when life feels overwhelming can help you build awareness of yourself, your personal needs and how to manage stress without destructive behaviors and thoughts. My tailored, trauma-informed and evidence-based therapy will help you navigate your unique struggles and reach your personal goals.
My goal for treatment is to support, encourage and help you build confidence in your ability to handle life's difficulties (and, yes, that often presents itself as anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use and symptoms of trauma).
Go to halcyoncounseling.as.me/ to schedule a consult for my waitlist. I provide counseling & med management to individuals & families. Everyone experiences significant anxiety, sadness or emotional distress at some point in their lives, and most people have experienced some sort of traumatic event in their past. Seeking support during times when life feels overwhelming can help you build awareness of yourself, your personal needs and how to manage stress without destructive behaviors and thoughts. My tailored, trauma-informed and evidence-based therapy will help you navigate your unique struggles and reach your personal goals.
(360) 558-3477 View (360) 558-3477
Photo of Sarah Wahl, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Sarah Wahl
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98663
I have a heart for people struggling with anxiety, self-esteem, depression, trauma, and ADHD.
Are the choices of others negatively affecting you? Are you losing your temper and isolating? Have you lost hope in the future or finding a solution? If you have said yes to any of those questions, you don't have to go through it alone. As your therapist, I make every effort to try and help you discover more effective ways of thinking, behaving, and coping with what has brought you to therapy. There are different paths you could take to freedom from your situation, together let's try and find the best path for you!
I have a heart for people struggling with anxiety, self-esteem, depression, trauma, and ADHD.
Are the choices of others negatively affecting you? Are you losing your temper and isolating? Have you lost hope in the future or finding a solution? If you have said yes to any of those questions, you don't have to go through it alone. As your therapist, I make every effort to try and help you discover more effective ways of thinking, behaving, and coping with what has brought you to therapy. There are different paths you could take to freedom from your situation, together let's try and find the best path for you!
(360) 919-0596 View (360) 919-0596
Photo of Hannah Grabhorn, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Hannah Grabhorn
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98684
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with people who are ready to make a change, are willing to be curious, an are open to talking about hard things. I work with individuals, couples, teens, and children in a variety of settings. I enjoy working with recovering “people pleasers”, individuals with depression, anxiety, and people seeking ADHD management, and grief counseling. For couples, it is my goal to get you from a cycle of fighting to greater understanding and intimacy.
I enjoy working with people who are ready to make a change, are willing to be curious, an are open to talking about hard things. I work with individuals, couples, teens, and children in a variety of settings. I enjoy working with recovering “people pleasers”, individuals with depression, anxiety, and people seeking ADHD management, and grief counseling. For couples, it is my goal to get you from a cycle of fighting to greater understanding and intimacy.
(360) 634-0389 View (360) 634-0389
Photo of Sherese Cordova, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Sherese Cordova
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98685  (Online Only)
I am an EMDR specialized trauma therapist. I am passionate about working with clients struggling with Complex Trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), ADHD/Neurodiversity, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), anxiety and depression. I strongly value the relationship I build with my clients and place great importance on providing a safe space for connection and trust. My style in therapy is warm, empathetic, compassionate and humorous. My goal as your therapist is to meet you exactly where you are, sit with you in your pain and help guide you along your unique path of healing and self improvement.
I am an EMDR specialized trauma therapist. I am passionate about working with clients struggling with Complex Trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), ADHD/Neurodiversity, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), anxiety and depression. I strongly value the relationship I build with my clients and place great importance on providing a safe space for connection and trust. My style in therapy is warm, empathetic, compassionate and humorous. My goal as your therapist is to meet you exactly where you are, sit with you in your pain and help guide you along your unique path of healing and self improvement.
(360) 585-4887 View (360) 585-4887
Photo of Corrina Lowe, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Corrina Lowe
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98662
Corrina Lowe has been practicing since 2005. She graduated from California Baptist University with a Masters in Marriage and Family therapy. Corrina believes in the importance of treating the whole person through using an eclectic therapeutic approach that supports the needs of individual person. Her primary areas of focus include ADHD, Autism, and Mood disorders.
Corrina Lowe has been practicing since 2005. She graduated from California Baptist University with a Masters in Marriage and Family therapy. Corrina believes in the importance of treating the whole person through using an eclectic therapeutic approach that supports the needs of individual person. Her primary areas of focus include ADHD, Autism, and Mood disorders.
(360) 226-4853 View (360) 226-4853
Photo of A. Denise Ashcroft, LMHCA, Art, MS, Counselor
A. Denise Ashcroft
Counselor, LMHCA, Art, MS
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98682
Immediate Openings! In Network Premera. Blue Cross/Blue Shield. Anthem. Private Pay. If you're seeking therapy for yourself or as a couple, or you're a parent looking for guidance, my goal is to help you lead a more fulfilling and balanced life. Together, we can navigate the unique challenges you're facing & work towards positive, lasting change. My approach is rooted in empathy & non-judgment, & if you're feeling stuck, or disconnected, I'm here to assist you. Specialties include Co-dependency, Children of Alcoholics, Relationships Issues, Attachment, Parenting, Family Planning, Neurodiversity, Grief, Anxiety, Social Anxiety, ADHD
Immediate Openings! In Network Premera. Blue Cross/Blue Shield. Anthem. Private Pay. If you're seeking therapy for yourself or as a couple, or you're a parent looking for guidance, my goal is to help you lead a more fulfilling and balanced life. Together, we can navigate the unique challenges you're facing & work towards positive, lasting change. My approach is rooted in empathy & non-judgment, & if you're feeling stuck, or disconnected, I'm here to assist you. Specialties include Co-dependency, Children of Alcoholics, Relationships Issues, Attachment, Parenting, Family Planning, Neurodiversity, Grief, Anxiety, Social Anxiety, ADHD
(509) 348-4159 View (509) 348-4159
Photo of Roman Laws, CMHC, LCPC, LMHC, CPC, LPC, Counselor
Roman Laws
Counselor, CMHC, LCPC, LMHC, CPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98682  (Online Only)
I work with adults facing challenges such as ADHD, anxiety and depression, career and life transitions, interpersonal issues, and more.
My approach to counseling involves a direct and socratic style, employing various cognitive-behavioral methods to challenge clients and equip them with enduring tools for success. I’m dedicated to helping clients understand that our well-being is intricately linked to our beliefs and choices as we strive to fulfill our fundamental needs for survival, love, importance, and variety. Collaboratively, I work with each client to determine the most effective means of supporting them in meeting these needs through the power of choice.
I work with adults facing challenges such as ADHD, anxiety and depression, career and life transitions, interpersonal issues, and more.
My approach to counseling involves a direct and socratic style, employing various cognitive-behavioral methods to challenge clients and equip them with enduring tools for success. I’m dedicated to helping clients understand that our well-being is intricately linked to our beliefs and choices as we strive to fulfill our fundamental needs for survival, love, importance, and variety. Collaboratively, I work with each client to determine the most effective means of supporting them in meeting these needs through the power of choice.
(385) 238-1549 View (385) 238-1549
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.