ADHD Therapists in Clairemont, San Diego, CA

Photo of Terry Wilke, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Terry Wilke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92117
In addition to virtual or in office individual or family psychotherapy services, I offer very thorough ADHD assessment services that include a school observation and teacher consultation as well as parent and child interviews.
I am a Cognitive Behavioral Solution Focused therapist with over 30 years of experience providing services to children, teens, young adults and families dealing with stress/anxiety, improving self esteem, managing with ADHD, and dealing with school issues. Together we will use a strength based approach to work toward specific emotional or behavioral goals. I engage with children and families through play therapy activities and teens/young adults through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) talk therapy activities.
In addition to virtual or in office individual or family psychotherapy services, I offer very thorough ADHD assessment services that include a school observation and teacher consultation as well as parent and child interviews.
I am a Cognitive Behavioral Solution Focused therapist with over 30 years of experience providing services to children, teens, young adults and families dealing with stress/anxiety, improving self esteem, managing with ADHD, and dealing with school issues. Together we will use a strength based approach to work toward specific emotional or behavioral goals. I engage with children and families through play therapy activities and teens/young adults through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) talk therapy activities.
(619) 648-3668 View (619) 648-3668
Photo of Lisa Wasnock, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Wasnock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92117
Hi, and welcome! I'm Lisa and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I specialize in working with Neurodivergent individuals and families dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD/ ADD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, trauma/abuse, divorce, and emotional/behavioral concerns. I have experience providing therapy to children, teens, young adults, families, and adults. I support through a client centered and collaborative approach and create a safe therapeutic environment for clients to make progress on their goals. My practice is neurodivergent and LGBTQ affirming.
Hi, and welcome! I'm Lisa and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I specialize in working with Neurodivergent individuals and families dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD/ ADD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, trauma/abuse, divorce, and emotional/behavioral concerns. I have experience providing therapy to children, teens, young adults, families, and adults. I support through a client centered and collaborative approach and create a safe therapeutic environment for clients to make progress on their goals. My practice is neurodivergent and LGBTQ affirming.
(442) 275-8799 View (442) 275-8799
Photo of Gina Metcalf, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gina Metcalf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92111  (Online Only)
My areas of speciality are anxiety, trauma, codependency, OCD, ADHD, and late diagnosed Autism.
Who am I? I'm a 30-something millennial that's had my fair share of dating woes and relationship issues and is now happily married. I'm down-to-earth, relatable, and warm. I'm interactive and ask questions and give feedback. I'm often told by clients that I feel like a good fit relationally and have a good vibe that's easy to click with. Who are you? Someone that wants help navigating relationships? Or wants help in knowing how you feel and communicating that to your loved ones? Or are you seeking support to put yourself first? Let's keep it simple and work together to find solutions: northstartherapyinc.com
My areas of speciality are anxiety, trauma, codependency, OCD, ADHD, and late diagnosed Autism.
Who am I? I'm a 30-something millennial that's had my fair share of dating woes and relationship issues and is now happily married. I'm down-to-earth, relatable, and warm. I'm interactive and ask questions and give feedback. I'm often told by clients that I feel like a good fit relationally and have a good vibe that's easy to click with. Who are you? Someone that wants help navigating relationships? Or wants help in knowing how you feel and communicating that to your loved ones? Or are you seeking support to put yourself first? Let's keep it simple and work together to find solutions: northstartherapyinc.com
(619) 663-6433 View (619) 663-6433
Photo of Neshmil Ariy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Neshmil Ariy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92108
I specialize in providing therapy to individuals struggling with anxiety, mood, ADHD, PTSD, depression, relationship issues, trauma, life stressors related to adjustments/life transitions, and more.
Currently Accepting New Clients* We can get you scheduled quickly- in less than week! Hello there and welcome, thank you for stopping by. My first goal as a therapist is to provide an environment where you will feel safe and comfortable in order to make the most progress. I'm a bilingual (English and Spanish) therapist in San Diego and have over 10 years of experience providing therapy to children, teens, adults, and families overcome current obstacles to live a happier balanced life. I have experience working with Active Duty Services Members as well as their family members. FREE 10 minute phone consult available.
I specialize in providing therapy to individuals struggling with anxiety, mood, ADHD, PTSD, depression, relationship issues, trauma, life stressors related to adjustments/life transitions, and more.
Currently Accepting New Clients* We can get you scheduled quickly- in less than week! Hello there and welcome, thank you for stopping by. My first goal as a therapist is to provide an environment where you will feel safe and comfortable in order to make the most progress. I'm a bilingual (English and Spanish) therapist in San Diego and have over 10 years of experience providing therapy to children, teens, adults, and families overcome current obstacles to live a happier balanced life. I have experience working with Active Duty Services Members as well as their family members. FREE 10 minute phone consult available.
(619) 332-5010 View (619) 332-5010
Photo of Sara Al-Khedairy Poly+Neurodiversity Affirming Therapy, APCC, NCC
Sara Al-Khedairy Poly+Neurodiversity Affirming Therapy
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92117
My areas of focus include consensual non-monogamy/polyamory, BIPOC lived experience, gender and sexual identity, and neurodivergence ( ADHD and autism).
Hi there, my name is Sara (she/her). As a child of Middle-Eastern immigrants, late-diagnosed neurodivergent ( ADHD) person, polyamorous individual, and queer woman, I am honored to have the opportunity to support other members of these minoritized communities in my clinical work. I work alongside clients through a lens of social justice and anti-racism, exploring how systemic oppression and social "norms" act as barriers to wellbeing, particularly for those of us who hold multiple marginalized identities. I work with adults, including individuals, couples, polycules, and other non-traditional relationship configurations.
My areas of focus include consensual non-monogamy/polyamory, BIPOC lived experience, gender and sexual identity, and neurodivergence ( ADHD and autism).
Hi there, my name is Sara (she/her). As a child of Middle-Eastern immigrants, late-diagnosed neurodivergent ( ADHD) person, polyamorous individual, and queer woman, I am honored to have the opportunity to support other members of these minoritized communities in my clinical work. I work alongside clients through a lens of social justice and anti-racism, exploring how systemic oppression and social "norms" act as barriers to wellbeing, particularly for those of us who hold multiple marginalized identities. I work with adults, including individuals, couples, polycules, and other non-traditional relationship configurations.
(619) 486-9760 View (619) 486-9760
Photo of David Lipsitt, PsyD, Psychologist
David Lipsitt
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92117
I have also worked at The Hallowell Center, LD & ADHD Center of Hawaii, & Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates.
⯌ Providing in-person evaluations (neuropsychological, neurodevelopmental, psychoeducational). ⯌ Serving children, adolescents, adults. ⯌ SPECIALIZING in: ⯌ Impact of emotional wellness on learning (and vice-versa). ⯌ Strengths-based, non-pathologizing approach. ⯌ Strategies for ADHD, learning differences (i.e., dyslexia, intellectual giftedness), anxiety, temperamental & sensory sensitivity (i.e., highly sensitive children/adults), autism spectrum/neurodiversity, stress management, time management, & emotional wellness. ⯌ Licensed in CA, MA, and HI.
I have also worked at The Hallowell Center, LD & ADHD Center of Hawaii, & Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates.
⯌ Providing in-person evaluations (neuropsychological, neurodevelopmental, psychoeducational). ⯌ Serving children, adolescents, adults. ⯌ SPECIALIZING in: ⯌ Impact of emotional wellness on learning (and vice-versa). ⯌ Strengths-based, non-pathologizing approach. ⯌ Strategies for ADHD, learning differences (i.e., dyslexia, intellectual giftedness), anxiety, temperamental & sensory sensitivity (i.e., highly sensitive children/adults), autism spectrum/neurodiversity, stress management, time management, & emotional wellness. ⯌ Licensed in CA, MA, and HI.
(617) 390-8293 View (617) 390-8293
Photo of Victoria Grutz - Victoria Grutz Neurodivergence-Informed Therapist, AMFT
Victoria Grutz Neurodivergence-Informed Therapist
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT
Verified Verified
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92117
Hi there! Thanks for stopping by. My name is Victoria (she/her) and I am a neurodivergent (Autistic and ADHD) therapist who is deeply passionate about working with adult individuals, couples, polycules, and families in both the neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ communities. I work from a social justice-oriented lens, acknowledging systems of oppression that exist to serve some while creating barriers to well-being for many others. I particularly enjoy working with clients as they navigate experiences with late-diagnoses, anxiety, existential questions, relational and sexual difficulties, and life transitions.
Hi there! Thanks for stopping by. My name is Victoria (she/her) and I am a neurodivergent (Autistic and ADHD) therapist who is deeply passionate about working with adult individuals, couples, polycules, and families in both the neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ communities. I work from a social justice-oriented lens, acknowledging systems of oppression that exist to serve some while creating barriers to well-being for many others. I particularly enjoy working with clients as they navigate experiences with late-diagnoses, anxiety, existential questions, relational and sexual difficulties, and life transitions.
(858) 667-7975 View (858) 667-7975
Photo of Cynthia Valentine, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cynthia Valentine
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92117
Do you feel like you're in a boat without the paddles? Is life feeling unclear and out of balance? You're allowed to have bad days, but wouldn't it be nice if you had more good days? I help with the emotional roller coasters of Grief, Anxiety and Adult ADHD. Learning how to develop calm and clear inner confidence is not out of reach. You need real skills to live a better life without the outbursts, avoidance and self-neglect. I can help you build your internal confidence back and live a more peaceful and authentic life.
Do you feel like you're in a boat without the paddles? Is life feeling unclear and out of balance? You're allowed to have bad days, but wouldn't it be nice if you had more good days? I help with the emotional roller coasters of Grief, Anxiety and Adult ADHD. Learning how to develop calm and clear inner confidence is not out of reach. You need real skills to live a better life without the outbursts, avoidance and self-neglect. I can help you build your internal confidence back and live a more peaceful and authentic life.
(619) 598-1539 View (619) 598-1539
Photo of Melissa Lanza, PhD, LPCC, Psychologist
Melissa Lanza
Psychologist, PhD, LPCC
Verified Verified
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92117
Psychological Testing & Evaluations for teens & adults ( ADHD, Learning Problems, Autism, Cognitive Functioning/IQ) and veterans (DBQs).
I know how difficult making changes in your life can be. Asking for help and support is a sign of strength and commitment to improving your life. I am here to help you on your personal journey to achieve a life filled with peace, happiness, and emotional well-being. My goal is to empower you to find personal strategies to discover your full potential. Using therapeutic approaches with proven results, I am able to help identify behaviors and/or thoughts might be holding you back from living a meaningful and happy life. To make an appointment, please visit my website and choose "Initial Assessment.”
Psychological Testing & Evaluations for teens & adults ( ADHD, Learning Problems, Autism, Cognitive Functioning/IQ) and veterans (DBQs).
I know how difficult making changes in your life can be. Asking for help and support is a sign of strength and commitment to improving your life. I am here to help you on your personal journey to achieve a life filled with peace, happiness, and emotional well-being. My goal is to empower you to find personal strategies to discover your full potential. Using therapeutic approaches with proven results, I am able to help identify behaviors and/or thoughts might be holding you back from living a meaningful and happy life. To make an appointment, please visit my website and choose "Initial Assessment.”
(858) 414-3523 View (858) 414-3523
Photo of Dr. Renate Ward - Ward Learning Solutions, EdD, ABSNP, NCSP
Ward Learning Solutions
Licensed Educational Psychologist, EdD, ABSNP, NCSP
Verified Verified
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92111
Renate Ward specializes in the identification, assessment, and diagnosis of Learning Disabilities, Autism, ADHD, and other child/adolescent disabilities including social-emotional and behavioral factors that impact how children learn.
Is your child struggling in school with learning or behavior? Are you concerned they may have a learning disability, emotional disability, or neurological disorder such as ADHD or Autism? Are you an adult in college or a career where you have/suspect a learning disability impacting your performance? Dr. Ward's goal is to assist parents in being the best advocate for their children by providing knowledge, guidance, and confidence that they are doing everything possible to maximize their child’s learning potential. Dr. Ward also specializes in DHH assessments with 13 years of teaching and 10 years of assessing this population in ASL.
Renate Ward specializes in the identification, assessment, and diagnosis of Learning Disabilities, Autism, ADHD, and other child/adolescent disabilities including social-emotional and behavioral factors that impact how children learn.
Is your child struggling in school with learning or behavior? Are you concerned they may have a learning disability, emotional disability, or neurological disorder such as ADHD or Autism? Are you an adult in college or a career where you have/suspect a learning disability impacting your performance? Dr. Ward's goal is to assist parents in being the best advocate for their children by providing knowledge, guidance, and confidence that they are doing everything possible to maximize their child’s learning potential. Dr. Ward also specializes in DHH assessments with 13 years of teaching and 10 years of assessing this population in ASL.
(619) 975-3273 View (619) 975-3273
Photo of Ruby Estrada, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ruby Estrada
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92117
Hello. My name is Ruby Estrada. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I approach therapy at your pace, which I can follow or match with rather quickly. My focus is centered on you and building whatever strengths you put forth whether you are aware of them or not. I help someone find a way to get through a problem or conflict, this is my approach. I am straightforward when you need me to be and gentle when the situation calls for empathy, or a balance of both. For 21 years, I have treated depression, anxiety, PTSD, LGBTQ+-related issues, ADHD, and adults finding themselves on the Autism Spectrum.
Hello. My name is Ruby Estrada. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I approach therapy at your pace, which I can follow or match with rather quickly. My focus is centered on you and building whatever strengths you put forth whether you are aware of them or not. I help someone find a way to get through a problem or conflict, this is my approach. I am straightforward when you need me to be and gentle when the situation calls for empathy, or a balance of both. For 21 years, I have treated depression, anxiety, PTSD, LGBTQ+-related issues, ADHD, and adults finding themselves on the Autism Spectrum.
(619) 586-6733 View (619) 586-6733
Photo of Reina Remy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Reina Remy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92117
I work collaboratively and creatively to help you/your child or teen identify the root causes underlying the current struggles and increase awareness of solutions in your lives. I use play/art techniques to explore thoughts and feelings, emphasize therapeutic experiments, and process traumas to help you/your child feel better and improve the quality of your lives. I have more than 20 years experience helping children, teens, adults, and parents with trauma, grief, anxiety, family conflicts, bipolar, ADHD, and depression, among other issues. I also love working with LGBTQ community, military families, twins, and parenting struggles.
I work collaboratively and creatively to help you/your child or teen identify the root causes underlying the current struggles and increase awareness of solutions in your lives. I use play/art techniques to explore thoughts and feelings, emphasize therapeutic experiments, and process traumas to help you/your child feel better and improve the quality of your lives. I have more than 20 years experience helping children, teens, adults, and parents with trauma, grief, anxiety, family conflicts, bipolar, ADHD, and depression, among other issues. I also love working with LGBTQ community, military families, twins, and parenting struggles.
(858) 215-1978 View (858) 215-1978
Photo of Kirstin G Filizetti - Kirstin Filizetti, Ph.D., PhD, Psychologist
Kirstin Filizetti, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92117
I am also qualified to complete psychological assessments and evaluations, including: (1) testing for ADHD, (2) evaluation for learning disabilities, (3) employment screening, and for (4) diagnostic clarification purposes.
As a person-centered therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand & resolve challenges in your life. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
I am also qualified to complete psychological assessments and evaluations, including: (1) testing for ADHD, (2) evaluation for learning disabilities, (3) employment screening, and for (4) diagnostic clarification purposes.
As a person-centered therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand & resolve challenges in your life. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
(619) 722-3094 View (619) 722-3094
Photo of Priscilla Jouvin, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Priscilla Jouvin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92117  (Online Only)
As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master's degree from the University of Oregon, I specialize in helping adults navigate life's transitions, manage anxiety, ADHD, and overcome depression.
Imagine a life where anxiety and depression no longer dictate your daily experience. You may feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of how to move forward, but you don't have to face these challenges alone. I am here to help you navigate these difficult emotions and guide you toward a brighter, calmer future. Together, we will explore the roots of your struggles, develop practical coping skills, and build upon your unique strengths. My goal is to help you find balance, reclaim your peace, and live a life with more joy and less fear. Let's work together to create meaningful change, so you can thrive rather than just survive.
As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master's degree from the University of Oregon, I specialize in helping adults navigate life's transitions, manage anxiety, ADHD, and overcome depression.
Imagine a life where anxiety and depression no longer dictate your daily experience. You may feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of how to move forward, but you don't have to face these challenges alone. I am here to help you navigate these difficult emotions and guide you toward a brighter, calmer future. Together, we will explore the roots of your struggles, develop practical coping skills, and build upon your unique strengths. My goal is to help you find balance, reclaim your peace, and live a life with more joy and less fear. Let's work together to create meaningful change, so you can thrive rather than just survive.
(858) 251-8291 View (858) 251-8291
Photo of Lukasz Urban, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Lukasz Urban
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92117
My passion in life is helping people heal from trauma and depression through warm, authentic, and professional care. Through my clinical training, I discovered that I have a natural talent for working with children and adolescents. I am fascinated by new technologies and like to incorporate them into treatment whenever it can help an individual live a healthier and more fulfilling life.
My passion in life is helping people heal from trauma and depression through warm, authentic, and professional care. Through my clinical training, I discovered that I have a natural talent for working with children and adolescents. I am fascinated by new technologies and like to incorporate them into treatment whenever it can help an individual live a healthier and more fulfilling life.
(619) 387-7621 View (619) 387-7621
Photo of Nicole Guzman, PsyD, Psychologist
Nicole Guzman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92117
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in treating children, adolescents, and young adults. I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology from UCLA. I also hold a master’s and doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University and have over 20 years of experience working with children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and a variety of other presenting issues. For the past several years, I have served as a Subject Matter Expert for the California Board of Psychology.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in treating children, adolescents, and young adults. I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology from UCLA. I also hold a master’s and doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University and have over 20 years of experience working with children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and a variety of other presenting issues. For the past several years, I have served as a Subject Matter Expert for the California Board of Psychology.
(619) 383-1066 View (619) 383-1066
Photo of Anne Marie Perkins, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anne Marie Perkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92117
As I walked though many personal difficult experieces in my life, I learned what I wanted from a good therapist. I have dedicated the last 10 years to becoming such a therapist for people who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma and tragic loss or overwhelming stress.
As I walked though many personal difficult experieces in my life, I learned what I wanted from a good therapist. I have dedicated the last 10 years to becoming such a therapist for people who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma and tragic loss or overwhelming stress.
(619) 369-1661 View (619) 369-1661
Photo of Mitra Golriz, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mitra Golriz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92117  (Online Only)
I am multilingual and provided two years of live TV show in a local TV station in Orange County offering psychoeducation to Farsi speaking communities around the world to decrease stigma about mental illness and empower and inspire families and individuals to recognize mental illness and seek professional help when needed.
I am multilingual and provided two years of live TV show in a local TV station in Orange County offering psychoeducation to Farsi speaking communities around the world to decrease stigma about mental illness and empower and inspire families and individuals to recognize mental illness and seek professional help when needed.
(415) 727-8136 View (415) 727-8136
Photo of More Ramot, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
More Ramot
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92117  (Online Only)
לפעמים אנחנו צריכים מישהו שיכוון אותנו במסע לעבר חיים מאושרים ומשמעותיים. We all need some help finding our path to live a happier and meaningful life. Together we can discover your path to increase life satisfaction. I will bring my many years of experience, working with kids and adults, and you will bring yourself, your family and your story. I'll be happy to try and help you feel better via telehealth in all of California or in person in San Diego.
לפעמים אנחנו צריכים מישהו שיכוון אותנו במסע לעבר חיים מאושרים ומשמעותיים. We all need some help finding our path to live a happier and meaningful life. Together we can discover your path to increase life satisfaction. I will bring my many years of experience, working with kids and adults, and you will bring yourself, your family and your story. I'll be happy to try and help you feel better via telehealth in all of California or in person in San Diego.
(858) 293-8979 View (858) 293-8979
Photo of Siri Hadland, Psychologist
Siri Hadland
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92117
Learning why we think, feel, and act the way we do is one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves. From there, we gain the ability to adjust, grow, connect, and show up in the world as our most authentic selves. I work primarily with addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. My approach to treating addictive problems is self-empowering and open minded. In addition to the listed disorders I treat, I love working with women's issues, relationship issues, phase of life issues, religious trauma, and the LGBTQ+ population.
Learning why we think, feel, and act the way we do is one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves. From there, we gain the ability to adjust, grow, connect, and show up in the world as our most authentic selves. I work primarily with addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. My approach to treating addictive problems is self-empowering and open minded. In addition to the listed disorders I treat, I love working with women's issues, relationship issues, phase of life issues, religious trauma, and the LGBTQ+ population.
(858) 522-0154 View (858) 522-0154
1

See more therapy options for Clairemont, San Diego

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.