ADHD Therapists in Oak Park, IL

Photo of Colin A. Brietzke, PsyD, Psychologist
Colin A. Brietzke
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
Dr. Brietzke specializes in the neuropsychological evaluation of a wide range of disorders of the brain including head injuries, ADHD, learning difficulties, emotional problems and memory disorders. The neuropsychological testing offered by Dr. Brietzke provides a more specific understanding of brain functioning than psychological, psychiatric or school-based testing does, resulting in more accurate diagnosis and more effective treatment. He also integrates the cutting-edge neuroimaging and brainmapping tools with traditional neuropsychological tests. This allows for unprecedented levels of understanding of an individual's underlying brain processes and opens up many new treatment options.
Dr. Brietzke specializes in the neuropsychological evaluation of a wide range of disorders of the brain including head injuries, ADHD, learning difficulties, emotional problems and memory disorders. The neuropsychological testing offered by Dr. Brietzke provides a more specific understanding of brain functioning than psychological, psychiatric or school-based testing does, resulting in more accurate diagnosis and more effective treatment. He also integrates the cutting-edge neuroimaging and brainmapping tools with traditional neuropsychological tests. This allows for unprecedented levels of understanding of an individual's underlying brain processes and opens up many new treatment options.
(708) 320-1441 View (708) 320-1441
Photo of Ken Chen, PhD, Psychologist
Ken Chen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60302
LifeSpan Counseling & Psychological Services offers services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I am a bilingual (Mandarin) Clinical Psychologist. My style is warm, practical and straightforward. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, autism, substance-related disorder, ADHD and trauma. I have worked extensively with culturally diverse school-aged children (5-18), and I also enjoy working with and providing support and coaching for the parents/caregivers. I use a collaborative approach with clients of all ages to help develop treatment goals that are observable and developmentally appropriate.
LifeSpan Counseling & Psychological Services offers services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I am a bilingual (Mandarin) Clinical Psychologist. My style is warm, practical and straightforward. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, autism, substance-related disorder, ADHD and trauma. I have worked extensively with culturally diverse school-aged children (5-18), and I also enjoy working with and providing support and coaching for the parents/caregivers. I use a collaborative approach with clients of all ages to help develop treatment goals that are observable and developmentally appropriate.
(708) 401-6925 View (708) 401-6925
Photo of Laura Lammers, PsyD, PSYPACT, Psychologist
Laura Lammers
Psychologist, PsyD, PSYPACT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60304  (Online Only)
I have a strong focus on addressing the needs of individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), anxiety and obsessive compulsive disorders, addiction/substance use challenges, older adult psychological and neuropsychological concerns, as well as trauma-related issues.
Everyone deserves to have a safe and welcoming space to enter where they can work on whatever is on their mind without having to be concerned about what the therapist thinks or feels. Coming to therapy can be difficult because it can mean having to face some difficult truths and realizations. Your well-being is important, and you don't have to face your struggles alone. Whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, or any other concern, there are therapists who are ready to listen. Together, we will work at a pace that is appropriate and manageable to achieve your goals.
I have a strong focus on addressing the needs of individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), anxiety and obsessive compulsive disorders, addiction/substance use challenges, older adult psychological and neuropsychological concerns, as well as trauma-related issues.
Everyone deserves to have a safe and welcoming space to enter where they can work on whatever is on their mind without having to be concerned about what the therapist thinks or feels. Coming to therapy can be difficult because it can mean having to face some difficult truths and realizations. Your well-being is important, and you don't have to face your struggles alone. Whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, or any other concern, there are therapists who are ready to listen. Together, we will work at a pace that is appropriate and manageable to achieve your goals.
(708) 792-2973 View (708) 792-2973
Photo of Amanda R Hensley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda R Hensley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60302  (Online Only)
I specialize in coping with anxiety, navigating life changes and relationships, ADHD and building executive functioning skills, emerging adulthood challenges, and helping people create a more compassionate internal dialogue and building resilience.
Hello! I’m Amanda and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. In my life I’ve been driven by strong curiosity of people and what makes us develop into who we are and how we become better. I sought a Master’s degree in Social Work and upon graduating in 2012 it has been my pleasure to work with people of all ages and stages of life to help them find their voice, their sense of balance, and most importantly, their compassion for themselves.
I specialize in coping with anxiety, navigating life changes and relationships, ADHD and building executive functioning skills, emerging adulthood challenges, and helping people create a more compassionate internal dialogue and building resilience.
Hello! I’m Amanda and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. In my life I’ve been driven by strong curiosity of people and what makes us develop into who we are and how we become better. I sought a Master’s degree in Social Work and upon graduating in 2012 it has been my pleasure to work with people of all ages and stages of life to help them find their voice, their sense of balance, and most importantly, their compassion for themselves.
(708) 740-5371 View (708) 740-5371
Photo of Lakeisha Banks, MSW, LSW, EMDR, BSP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lakeisha Banks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, EMDR, BSP
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
As a therapist who lives with ADHD, I understand and feel the challenges of life from the point of view of a neurodivergent individual. There are so many difficulties we face every day, and we are not born knowing how to use coping skills and tools to manage them. As a result, the path you’ve been on may be scary, but I want you to know that you are not alone! This is where I come in. I am a trauma-informed therapist that specializes in working with adolescents and adults who experience ADHD, trauma, PTSD, LGBTQIA+, domestic violence, and sexual assault, or are in need of crisis intervention.
As a therapist who lives with ADHD, I understand and feel the challenges of life from the point of view of a neurodivergent individual. There are so many difficulties we face every day, and we are not born knowing how to use coping skills and tools to manage them. As a result, the path you’ve been on may be scary, but I want you to know that you are not alone! This is where I come in. I am a trauma-informed therapist that specializes in working with adolescents and adults who experience ADHD, trauma, PTSD, LGBTQIA+, domestic violence, and sexual assault, or are in need of crisis intervention.
(312) 300-2038 View (312) 300-2038
Photo of Alif Muhammad, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alif Muhammad
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
Waitlist for new clients
Al treats a wide array of clients, particularly those who experience anxiety, depression, autism spectrum disorder, and ADHD.
Our journey in life can sometimes burn us out and make us feel hollow. It can leave us wondering about our worth and purpose in life. That's why it's so important to find a therapist who will always respect you and guide you back to the person you truly are.
Al treats a wide array of clients, particularly those who experience anxiety, depression, autism spectrum disorder, and ADHD.
Our journey in life can sometimes burn us out and make us feel hollow. It can leave us wondering about our worth and purpose in life. That's why it's so important to find a therapist who will always respect you and guide you back to the person you truly are.
(312) 471-0341 View (312) 471-0341
Photo of Lauren Wade, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Wade
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60302
Drawing from a trauma-informed background, I am passionate about working with kids and adults who are working through challenging experiences including working with adults with ADHD and twice exceptional kiddos.
Everyone wants to feel understood and validated. Whether an individual is a frustrated parent or a misunderstood child, all points of view are worthy and important. No matter if you are 6 or 60, some of the best conversations occur during a game of Connect 4, while squeezing a handful of putty, or by filling in a coloring page. My style of therapy is to meet clients where they’re at and make sure they feel heard in sharing their point of view. From there, we can explore what skill and values-based strategies clients can develop and where personal strengths can be used for further growth.
Drawing from a trauma-informed background, I am passionate about working with kids and adults who are working through challenging experiences including working with adults with ADHD and twice exceptional kiddos.
Everyone wants to feel understood and validated. Whether an individual is a frustrated parent or a misunderstood child, all points of view are worthy and important. No matter if you are 6 or 60, some of the best conversations occur during a game of Connect 4, while squeezing a handful of putty, or by filling in a coloring page. My style of therapy is to meet clients where they’re at and make sure they feel heard in sharing their point of view. From there, we can explore what skill and values-based strategies clients can develop and where personal strengths can be used for further growth.
(708) 719-9189 View (708) 719-9189
Photo of Maggie VanDerMolen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maggie VanDerMolen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302  (Online Only)
Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or alone, I’m here to help. I work with teens and adults who experience anxiety, depression, ADHD, and relationship issues looking for new avenues to address obstacles to personal fulfillment.
Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or alone, I’m here to help. I work with teens and adults who experience anxiety, depression, ADHD, and relationship issues looking for new avenues to address obstacles to personal fulfillment.
(773) 694-1401 View (773) 694-1401
Photo of Allie Burke, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allie Burke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60302
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years experience working with Adults, Teens, Children, and Families to address a variety of issues. My specialty areas of focus are Child and Adolescents, Family Conflict, ADHD in children and adults, PTSD, Traumatic Events, Grief, Anxiety, Depression and Parenting. I am a non-traditional and creative therapist that incorporates a number of techniques and am respected in the field and by my clients for my unique and straightforward approach to engagement and treatment.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years experience working with Adults, Teens, Children, and Families to address a variety of issues. My specialty areas of focus are Child and Adolescents, Family Conflict, ADHD in children and adults, PTSD, Traumatic Events, Grief, Anxiety, Depression and Parenting. I am a non-traditional and creative therapist that incorporates a number of techniques and am respected in the field and by my clients for my unique and straightforward approach to engagement and treatment.
(630) 716-9379 View (630) 716-9379
Photo of Kelsey O'Shea, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelsey O'Shea
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60302  (Online Only)
Do you feel overwhelmed, weighed down and stuck in place at times, like you know what you should do, but don’t have the motivation to make it happen? This is the effect ADHD, depression, anxiety and trauma can have on people, and you’re not alone. As your therapist, my goal is to make you feel heard and understood. Together, we will address your concerns by understanding how your thoughts, emotions, and physical health effect one another. We will seek to understand the underlying source of your symptoms and discover coping mechanisms that work for you through exploring your strengths, interests and support systems.
Do you feel overwhelmed, weighed down and stuck in place at times, like you know what you should do, but don’t have the motivation to make it happen? This is the effect ADHD, depression, anxiety and trauma can have on people, and you’re not alone. As your therapist, my goal is to make you feel heard and understood. Together, we will address your concerns by understanding how your thoughts, emotions, and physical health effect one another. We will seek to understand the underlying source of your symptoms and discover coping mechanisms that work for you through exploring your strengths, interests and support systems.
(312) 374-6214 View (312) 374-6214
Photo of Dr. Tab Shamsi, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Tab Shamsi
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60302  (Online Only)
I also work with adults diagnosed with ADHD on executive functioning skills.
The successful outcome of therapy is change that makes your life more meaningful. For most people, this means changing how we deal with difficulty, choosing different actions, and focusing our attention on what truly matters. I believe that using an evidence-based approach to treatment can make this a reality for most people. Having worked with hundreds of clients over my career, I have found that it is possible to quickly improve your life with the right tools that help you build the necessary skills. If you are hesitant about an unending commitment to therapy but believe you can benefit from change, our work will be productive.
I also work with adults diagnosed with ADHD on executive functioning skills.
The successful outcome of therapy is change that makes your life more meaningful. For most people, this means changing how we deal with difficulty, choosing different actions, and focusing our attention on what truly matters. I believe that using an evidence-based approach to treatment can make this a reality for most people. Having worked with hundreds of clients over my career, I have found that it is possible to quickly improve your life with the right tools that help you build the necessary skills. If you are hesitant about an unending commitment to therapy but believe you can benefit from change, our work will be productive.
(773) 839-9963 View (773) 839-9963
Photo of Samantha Skvaril, LCPC
Samantha Skvaril
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301  (Online Only)
You’re stuck in relationships that leave you feeling unappreciated and drained. You grew up in dysfunction or had a chaotic childhood. You’re struggling to set boundaries with the people around you. You were diagnosed with ADHD later in life, now what? You’re ready to make a change and then you see my page. I use an insight-oriented approach, which helps clients understand how past experiences can affect their current behavior. However, therapy is not "one size fits all" and we will pull from different treatment modalities to meet your individual needs.
You’re stuck in relationships that leave you feeling unappreciated and drained. You grew up in dysfunction or had a chaotic childhood. You’re struggling to set boundaries with the people around you. You were diagnosed with ADHD later in life, now what? You’re ready to make a change and then you see my page. I use an insight-oriented approach, which helps clients understand how past experiences can affect their current behavior. However, therapy is not "one size fits all" and we will pull from different treatment modalities to meet your individual needs.
(773) 906-7795 View (773) 906-7795
Photo of Dr. Katie Hejna, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Katie Hejna
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
In addition to therapy, I have expertise conducting neuropsychological assessments, which are intended to answer complex questions related to ADHD, learning disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder and more.
Is your child or teen struggling with anxiety, depression, parental divorce, making friends, or challenges that come with an Autism Spectrum Disorder? Are you a young adult experiencing a life transition, relationship difficulties or grief and loss? If so, psychotherapy can help. My goal is not to provide strategies that simply lead to short term relief, but to work with you or your child to reduce symptoms quickly, while creating long-lasting change- a process that I believe only occurs in the context of a safe and trusting relationship.
In addition to therapy, I have expertise conducting neuropsychological assessments, which are intended to answer complex questions related to ADHD, learning disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder and more.
Is your child or teen struggling with anxiety, depression, parental divorce, making friends, or challenges that come with an Autism Spectrum Disorder? Are you a young adult experiencing a life transition, relationship difficulties or grief and loss? If so, psychotherapy can help. My goal is not to provide strategies that simply lead to short term relief, but to work with you or your child to reduce symptoms quickly, while creating long-lasting change- a process that I believe only occurs in the context of a safe and trusting relationship.
(312) 663-8317 View (312) 663-8317
Photo of Andrew Lee, MA, NBCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Andrew Lee
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NBCC
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
I am here to assist others in their journey of healing. Life is wonderful but it can also give us a sense of insecurity and hardship. I have worked with many individuals providing mental health services in in-patient settings since 2015. I later started to work one-on-one with individuals with mood disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, martial issues, minority issues, first responders with family conflict, trauma and other issues that keep the individual from having an abundant life. I am here to provide you with knowledge and guidance on what your life can look like if you put faith in yourself
I am here to assist others in their journey of healing. Life is wonderful but it can also give us a sense of insecurity and hardship. I have worked with many individuals providing mental health services in in-patient settings since 2015. I later started to work one-on-one with individuals with mood disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, martial issues, minority issues, first responders with family conflict, trauma and other issues that keep the individual from having an abundant life. I am here to provide you with knowledge and guidance on what your life can look like if you put faith in yourself
(708) 766-8253 View (708) 766-8253
Photo of Annie Genetti, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Annie Genetti
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
I have experience working with children, teens, and adults on issues including anxiety, depression, ADHD, anger management, trauma, PTSD, relational issues, and low self-esteem.
I have experience working with children, teens, and adults on issues including anxiety, depression, ADHD, anger management, trauma, PTSD, relational issues, and low self-esteem.
(708) 809-8051 x1 View (708) 809-8051 x1
Photo of Dr. Patty Johnson - Nia Integrative Healing, PsyD, Psychologist
Nia Integrative Healing
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
We provide psychotherapy and psychological testing for ADHD, dementia, developmental needs and diagnosis clarification.
We are wired with an affinity toward healing. Therapy is a powerful tool in attaining wellness. But what if we went beyond talk therapy by also integrating meditation and biofeedback to address trauma, depression, inattention and other areas of mental health? We will explore your intrinsic ability to harness the power of mindfulness and breath work to reduce chronic pain and other physical issues impacted by stress. We will tap into nutrition's significant role in mental health, including mood and memory. We are a team of psychological providers and a preventative care physician collaborating with you toward your healing journey.
We provide psychotherapy and psychological testing for ADHD, dementia, developmental needs and diagnosis clarification.
We are wired with an affinity toward healing. Therapy is a powerful tool in attaining wellness. But what if we went beyond talk therapy by also integrating meditation and biofeedback to address trauma, depression, inattention and other areas of mental health? We will explore your intrinsic ability to harness the power of mindfulness and breath work to reduce chronic pain and other physical issues impacted by stress. We will tap into nutrition's significant role in mental health, including mood and memory. We are a team of psychological providers and a preventative care physician collaborating with you toward your healing journey.
(708) 628-5456 View (708) 628-5456
Photo of Courtney Bledsoe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Bledsoe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
Your child can learn to manage frustration, overcome anxiety, and discover success with ADHD.
You are feeling overwhelmed & frustrated by your child's tears, yelling, and fearfulness. You want to experience joy with your child & feel hopeful about the future. But, you're worried about your child's reactions to disappointments & frustration. Even mealtimes, bedtimes, and going to school feel like power struggles. You notice your child seems unhappy or angry, but are not sure what is going on. It's tough to balance everything when your child needs so much and it's affecting your sleep, work and other relationships. You love your child more than anything, but it's just so hard right now.
Your child can learn to manage frustration, overcome anxiety, and discover success with ADHD.
You are feeling overwhelmed & frustrated by your child's tears, yelling, and fearfulness. You want to experience joy with your child & feel hopeful about the future. But, you're worried about your child's reactions to disappointments & frustration. Even mealtimes, bedtimes, and going to school feel like power struggles. You notice your child seems unhappy or angry, but are not sure what is going on. It's tough to balance everything when your child needs so much and it's affecting your sleep, work and other relationships. You love your child more than anything, but it's just so hard right now.
(708) 740-2717 View (708) 740-2717
Photo of Crystal Ward, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Crystal Ward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302
In addition, I treat adults and teens struggling with ADHD, body-focused repetitive behaviors, gender identity and sexuality, relationship difficulties, communication, as well as career and academic performance.
Reaching out for help can be difficult. It takes courage, vulnerability and hope to seek support and be open to seeing things from a new perspective. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and family coping. I work with adolescents, adults, families and couples to help them find greater fulfillment from life and relationships. My therapeutic style is warm, empathetic, culturally sensitive, strength based and client centered. As a former medical social worker, I am experienced in helping families cope through the many emotional and practical challenges a medical diagnosis and treatment can bring.
In addition, I treat adults and teens struggling with ADHD, body-focused repetitive behaviors, gender identity and sexuality, relationship difficulties, communication, as well as career and academic performance.
Reaching out for help can be difficult. It takes courage, vulnerability and hope to seek support and be open to seeing things from a new perspective. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and family coping. I work with adolescents, adults, families and couples to help them find greater fulfillment from life and relationships. My therapeutic style is warm, empathetic, culturally sensitive, strength based and client centered. As a former medical social worker, I am experienced in helping families cope through the many emotional and practical challenges a medical diagnosis and treatment can bring.
(708) 434-0084 View (708) 434-0084
Photo of Theresa Wier - Theresa Wier, Psy.D., PsyD, LPC, Psychologist
Theresa Wier, Psy.D.
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
My experience includes working within various environments including a hospital setting, community mental health center, private practice, and educational settings with those who suffer from anxiety, depression, high functioning autism, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and personality disorders.
Hello. You are probably reading this as a result of an issue that has been on your mind and are hoping to find some peace or come to a resolution. I am a licensed clinical psychologist with a personable, down-to-earth approach willing to partner with you through your current struggle. I support a safe, non-judgmental therapeutic environment to discuss the thoughts and feelings that may be troubling for you. I have helped individuals, couples, and families with a vast array of mental health issues using a psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, or a family systems approach.
My experience includes working within various environments including a hospital setting, community mental health center, private practice, and educational settings with those who suffer from anxiety, depression, high functioning autism, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and personality disorders.
Hello. You are probably reading this as a result of an issue that has been on your mind and are hoping to find some peace or come to a resolution. I am a licensed clinical psychologist with a personable, down-to-earth approach willing to partner with you through your current struggle. I support a safe, non-judgmental therapeutic environment to discuss the thoughts and feelings that may be troubling for you. I have helped individuals, couples, and families with a vast array of mental health issues using a psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, or a family systems approach.
(708) 669-0746 View (708) 669-0746
Photo of Melody Linnear, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melody Linnear
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
Hello, My name is Melody and I am a senior clinician at InTouch Mind Health. I enjoy helping clients transform their lives, and find peace, joy, and freedom. I am passionate about providing treatment through a faith-centered lens of restoration. My areas of clinical focus are as follows: • Trauma • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder • Depression • Mood regulation • Anxiety Disorder • Anger Management • Attention Deficit Disorder • Life Transitions • Grief & Loss • Substance Use & Addiction • ARC - Attachment, Regulation, Competence Spirituality. View my full profile on our company website at www.InTouchMindHealth.com.
Hello, My name is Melody and I am a senior clinician at InTouch Mind Health. I enjoy helping clients transform their lives, and find peace, joy, and freedom. I am passionate about providing treatment through a faith-centered lens of restoration. My areas of clinical focus are as follows: • Trauma • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder • Depression • Mood regulation • Anxiety Disorder • Anger Management • Attention Deficit Disorder • Life Transitions • Grief & Loss • Substance Use & Addiction • ARC - Attachment, Regulation, Competence Spirituality. View my full profile on our company website at www.InTouchMindHealth.com.
(708) 853-6502 View (708) 853-6502
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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.