Photo of Art McKenna, PhD, PsyD, Psychologist
Art McKenna
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD
Verified Verified
Meriden, KS 66512
My therapy & counseling are based on the life experiences and the philosophy of Viktor Frankl. His writings describe the kinds of the situation from which he and his fellow prisoners at Auschwitz were able, on a day-to-day basis, to extract the life-sustaining meaning that was essential to their survival. My therapy has three levels: (1) use mindfulness and relaxation methods to calm the emotional brain down, and (2) use cognitive-behavioral to develop a healthy sense of resiliency. In the 3rd stage, you will learn self-distancing techniques to discover meaningfulness at the moment and find better ways to expand your uniqueness.
My therapy & counseling are based on the life experiences and the philosophy of Viktor Frankl. His writings describe the kinds of the situation from which he and his fellow prisoners at Auschwitz were able, on a day-to-day basis, to extract the life-sustaining meaning that was essential to their survival. My therapy has three levels: (1) use mindfulness and relaxation methods to calm the emotional brain down, and (2) use cognitive-behavioral to develop a healthy sense of resiliency. In the 3rd stage, you will learn self-distancing techniques to discover meaningfulness at the moment and find better ways to expand your uniqueness.
(785) 509-7915 View (785) 509-7915
Photo of Erin Herschell - Erin Herschell, LCPC
Erin Herschell
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Perry, KS 66073
Would you like your life or the life of your child to feel more enjoyable? Would you like your days to feel less stressful and chaotic? You may be struggling with excessive worry or stress, difficulties parenting, going through a life transition, or having marital issues. You may have a child that is experiencing anger, hyperactivity, attention or learning difficulties, worries, or difficult behaviors. If any of these issues sound familiar, I can help. Let's work together to make the rest of your life the best of your life!
Would you like your life or the life of your child to feel more enjoyable? Would you like your days to feel less stressful and chaotic? You may be struggling with excessive worry or stress, difficulties parenting, going through a life transition, or having marital issues. You may have a child that is experiencing anger, hyperactivity, attention or learning difficulties, worries, or difficult behaviors. If any of these issues sound familiar, I can help. Let's work together to make the rest of your life the best of your life!
(620) 207-1293 View (620) 207-1293

Online Therapists

Photo of Ashley Shadel, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ashley Shadel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Overland Park, KS 66210
Feeling stuck in your day-to-day life or relationships? Or just ready to take that next step to care for yourself? I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and openly welcome individuals (adolescents through adults), couples, and families using an empathetic approach that incorporates real-world tools and coping skills. I treat a variety of issues including anxiety, overwhelm, depression, self-esteem, ADHD, and couple conflict. I am also a Certified Prepare-Enrich Facilitator and offer premarital and marital enrichment counseling and believe wholeheartedly in couples therapy throughout the lifespan of a relationship.
Feeling stuck in your day-to-day life or relationships? Or just ready to take that next step to care for yourself? I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and openly welcome individuals (adolescents through adults), couples, and families using an empathetic approach that incorporates real-world tools and coping skills. I treat a variety of issues including anxiety, overwhelm, depression, self-esteem, ADHD, and couple conflict. I am also a Certified Prepare-Enrich Facilitator and offer premarital and marital enrichment counseling and believe wholeheartedly in couples therapy throughout the lifespan of a relationship.
(913) 423-8729 View (913) 423-8729
Photo of Troy M Fay, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Troy M Fay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66614
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has years of experience working with Anxiety, Depression, Anger, Mood Disorders, Marriage/Relationship Issues, Parenting Issues, Trauma, Grief and Loss, Spiritual Issues, Elderly Issues, ADHD, and Behavior Issues in Children,
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has years of experience working with Anxiety, Depression, Anger, Mood Disorders, Marriage/Relationship Issues, Parenting Issues, Trauma, Grief and Loss, Spiritual Issues, Elderly Issues, ADHD, and Behavior Issues in Children,
(785) 322-9487 View (785) 322-9487
Photo of Dr. Ken Morris, EdD, LCPC, LCAC, CSACII, Counselor
Dr. Ken Morris
Counselor, EdD, LCPC, LCAC, CSACII
Verified Verified
Olathe, KS 66062
Specialties include: Marriage and Family, Substance Abuse including Alcoholism, illicit substances, and narcotics addiction, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, various trauma issues including MPD, ADD, and ADHD.
Dr. Ken Morris is a state licensed professional counselor with close to 35 years of experience. He has a passion for working with people that struggle with marital and relationship, substance abuse, mood, and trauma issues. Dr. Morris works with teenagers and adults and offers individual counseling using traditional and highly effective adjunct modes of therapy such as hypnosis and EDMR. You will find Dr. Ken very relational and the office environment very welcoming and comfortable. You can initiate an appointment by calling Dr. Morris at 913-636-5657
Specialties include: Marriage and Family, Substance Abuse including Alcoholism, illicit substances, and narcotics addiction, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, various trauma issues including MPD, ADD, and ADHD.
Dr. Ken Morris is a state licensed professional counselor with close to 35 years of experience. He has a passion for working with people that struggle with marital and relationship, substance abuse, mood, and trauma issues. Dr. Morris works with teenagers and adults and offers individual counseling using traditional and highly effective adjunct modes of therapy such as hypnosis and EDMR. You will find Dr. Ken very relational and the office environment very welcoming and comfortable. You can initiate an appointment by calling Dr. Morris at 913-636-5657
(913) 305-5492 View (913) 305-5492
Photo of Bryan Goin, LCSW, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bryan Goin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66202  (Online Only)
Bryan possesses considerable expertise in supporting individuals managing mood disorders, ADHD, personality disorders, and sleep disorders.
Seeking a therapist who specializes in working with individuals who value open and honest communication? Bryan is dedicated to providing a compassionate and supportive environment to individuals who are willing to step outside their comfort zones, and dig deep to find change and the fulfillment of life. By working collaboratively, we will assess progress, make required modifications, and endeavor to uncover customized solutions that enrich your quality of life, strengthen your important connections, and learn to enhance your present circumstances, or take steps to improve them.
Bryan possesses considerable expertise in supporting individuals managing mood disorders, ADHD, personality disorders, and sleep disorders.
Seeking a therapist who specializes in working with individuals who value open and honest communication? Bryan is dedicated to providing a compassionate and supportive environment to individuals who are willing to step outside their comfort zones, and dig deep to find change and the fulfillment of life. By working collaboratively, we will assess progress, make required modifications, and endeavor to uncover customized solutions that enrich your quality of life, strengthen your important connections, and learn to enhance your present circumstances, or take steps to improve them.
(913) 347-7192 View (913) 347-7192
Photo of Megan Wackerly, MS, LPC, ART, ATR-P, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Wackerly
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, ART, ATR-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olathe, KS 66062
My goal is to provide a calming, safe space for you to open up and process thoughts, emotions, and trauma. I want to empower you and help you recognize your worth. Together, we can work on your goals and integrate healthy coping skills into your routines and relationships. I care about your wellbeing and want to help you heal from trauma. I have experience working in community mental health with clients of all ages. I enjoy working with adults with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationships, grief, ADHD, self esteem, coping skills, stress management, attachment, and life transitions.
My goal is to provide a calming, safe space for you to open up and process thoughts, emotions, and trauma. I want to empower you and help you recognize your worth. Together, we can work on your goals and integrate healthy coping skills into your routines and relationships. I care about your wellbeing and want to help you heal from trauma. I have experience working in community mental health with clients of all ages. I enjoy working with adults with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationships, grief, ADHD, self esteem, coping skills, stress management, attachment, and life transitions.
(913) 349-8978 View (913) 349-8978
Photo of Libby Rooney, MA, LCPC, NBCC, Counselor
Libby Rooney
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66210
I work with children, adults and families dealing with stress, depression, anxiety, ADHD, divorce, family conflict, parenting, grief, self-esteem and life changes.
I have worked as a school counselor for the past several years and am now enjoying private practice as well. Counseling in a school setting has granted me the opportunity to work with my students and their family members. Exploring family systems and fostering an understanding between family members is one of my greatest passions. I also enjoy working with adults that are going through the many challenges and changes that life can throw at us. As the poet Mary Oliver so beautifully puts it "Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life? " —Mary Oliver
I work with children, adults and families dealing with stress, depression, anxiety, ADHD, divorce, family conflict, parenting, grief, self-esteem and life changes.
I have worked as a school counselor for the past several years and am now enjoying private practice as well. Counseling in a school setting has granted me the opportunity to work with my students and their family members. Exploring family systems and fostering an understanding between family members is one of my greatest passions. I also enjoy working with adults that are going through the many challenges and changes that life can throw at us. As the poet Mary Oliver so beautifully puts it "Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life? " —Mary Oliver
(913) 578-9058 View (913) 578-9058
Photo of Tonya Miles - Tonya L. Miles, PsyD, PsyD, SEP, Psychologist
Tonya L. Miles, PsyD
Psychologist, PsyD, SEP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66210
My focus is to help people move through and overcome whatever obstacles are keeping them from experiencing a quality, fulfilling life. I work with a range of individuals and issues with either one person individually, or with a couple or family relationship. I have specialized training and education in treating ADHD in children and adults, in prenatal and postpartum mood and anxiety disorders, substance abuse, and trauma. I utilize a type of therapy called Somatic Experiencing to heal trauma which aims to restore the individual's nervous system to a less reactive state.
My focus is to help people move through and overcome whatever obstacles are keeping them from experiencing a quality, fulfilling life. I work with a range of individuals and issues with either one person individually, or with a couple or family relationship. I have specialized training and education in treating ADHD in children and adults, in prenatal and postpartum mood and anxiety disorders, substance abuse, and trauma. I utilize a type of therapy called Somatic Experiencing to heal trauma which aims to restore the individual's nervous system to a less reactive state.
(913) 933-6039 View (913) 933-6039
Photo of Richard Benson, Psychologist
Richard Benson
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Overland Park, KS 66223  (Online Only)
Having ADHD himself, he is acutely aware of the many challenges facing those with ADHD.
Dr. Benson's practice includes working with children, adolescents, families, adults and couples. He has extensive experience working with a wide variety of emotional and neurological issues associated with children and adolescents. His clinical expertise also includes the treatment of adult mood, anxiety and personality disorders. Dr. Benson is skilled in working with situations involving couples who are married, considering marriage, or have divorced and/or remarried.
Having ADHD himself, he is acutely aware of the many challenges facing those with ADHD.
Dr. Benson's practice includes working with children, adolescents, families, adults and couples. He has extensive experience working with a wide variety of emotional and neurological issues associated with children and adolescents. His clinical expertise also includes the treatment of adult mood, anxiety and personality disorders. Dr. Benson is skilled in working with situations involving couples who are married, considering marriage, or have divorced and/or remarried.
(913) 416-9955 View (913) 416-9955
Photo of Julie Livingston, MS, LCPC, RPT-S, CCHMC
Julie Livingston
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, RPT-S, CCHMC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66211
I have over 25 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families in mental health and counseling settings. I am passionate about providing a therapeutic environment that is engaging, validating and focused on positive change. I utilize a variety of approaches to help individuals and families cope with challenges such as anxiety, depression, relationship and parenting issues, adoption and attachment, ADHD, autism, loss and grief, trauma, school challenges and behavioral issues.
I have over 25 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families in mental health and counseling settings. I am passionate about providing a therapeutic environment that is engaging, validating and focused on positive change. I utilize a variety of approaches to help individuals and families cope with challenges such as anxiety, depression, relationship and parenting issues, adoption and attachment, ADHD, autism, loss and grief, trauma, school challenges and behavioral issues.
(913) 225-8582 View (913) 225-8582
Photo of Janette Reinke, LCMFT, LMFT, MSFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Janette Reinke
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT, LMFT, MSFT
Verified Verified
Merriam, KS 66202
If you are struggling in your relationship or life, or suspect ADHD or Austim might be impacting you or your relationship, there is help and hope.
I am a relationship & marriage mender, an ADHD & ASD warrior, and a shame/blame buster. You don't have to do this alone. I work with individuals & couples, many who feel overwhelmed, discouraged, or hopeless. Whether you are burdened by current life anxieties, relationship challenges, or struggling with the pain and shame of past hurts, I will listen to you with an attitude of compassion, warmth, and caring. My clients struggle with many issues including depression, anxiety, past trauma, undiagnosed ADHD, undiagnosed/self-diagnosed Autism, infidelity, marriage problems, spiritual concerns, and more. Oh hey... squirrel!
If you are struggling in your relationship or life, or suspect ADHD or Austim might be impacting you or your relationship, there is help and hope.
I am a relationship & marriage mender, an ADHD & ASD warrior, and a shame/blame buster. You don't have to do this alone. I work with individuals & couples, many who feel overwhelmed, discouraged, or hopeless. Whether you are burdened by current life anxieties, relationship challenges, or struggling with the pain and shame of past hurts, I will listen to you with an attitude of compassion, warmth, and caring. My clients struggle with many issues including depression, anxiety, past trauma, undiagnosed ADHD, undiagnosed/self-diagnosed Autism, infidelity, marriage problems, spiritual concerns, and more. Oh hey... squirrel!
(913) 305-5032 View (913) 305-5032
Photo of Shannon Tobaben, LCPC, Counselor
Shannon Tobaben
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Overland Park, KS 66211
I specialize in working with children and adolescents dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, ADHD, OCD, self-esteem and interpersonal conflict.
Hi! My name is Shannon and welcome you to searching for a therapist to start this journey. Taking this first step is difficult and hope I can help lessen the nerves by bringing authenticity and empathy to each session. I strive to develop a strong relationship with my clients by providing a safe and caring environment as I feel the client/therapist relationship is the foundation for change. Whether or not you are wanting a more directive approach or someone to sit with you during difficult times, I am committed to collaborate with you to find what goals will help you progress towards the outcomes you are hoping for.
I specialize in working with children and adolescents dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, ADHD, OCD, self-esteem and interpersonal conflict.
Hi! My name is Shannon and welcome you to searching for a therapist to start this journey. Taking this first step is difficult and hope I can help lessen the nerves by bringing authenticity and empathy to each session. I strive to develop a strong relationship with my clients by providing a safe and caring environment as I feel the client/therapist relationship is the foundation for change. Whether or not you are wanting a more directive approach or someone to sit with you during difficult times, I am committed to collaborate with you to find what goals will help you progress towards the outcomes you are hoping for.
(913) 423-2846 View (913) 423-2846
Photo of Rachel Assal, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Assal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olathe, KS 66062
Additionally, I work with individuals struggling with ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, OCD, anger issues, and daily life struggles/stressors.
Throughout the course of our lives, we all face challenges that may require a little extra help to navigate through. I strive to provide a very non-judgmental and supportive environment in which you can identify your needs, achieve your goals, and overcome the obstacles you currently face. I am extremely passionate about individualized therapy and will set up a customized treatment plan made just for you once we've discussed your needs. My ultimate goal is to empower you to realize your full potential and get you where you want to be. Everyone deserves a great life, so lets get started!
Additionally, I work with individuals struggling with ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, OCD, anger issues, and daily life struggles/stressors.
Throughout the course of our lives, we all face challenges that may require a little extra help to navigate through. I strive to provide a very non-judgmental and supportive environment in which you can identify your needs, achieve your goals, and overcome the obstacles you currently face. I am extremely passionate about individualized therapy and will set up a customized treatment plan made just for you once we've discussed your needs. My ultimate goal is to empower you to realize your full potential and get you where you want to be. Everyone deserves a great life, so lets get started!
(816) 629-4885 View (816) 629-4885
Photo of Heather England Certified Sex Therapist, PhD, MBA, LCP, LCPC, CST, Counselor
Heather England Certified Sex Therapist
Counselor, PhD, MBA, LCP, LCPC, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66210
Welcome! Are you seeking better relationships or improved intimacy? I'm here to help you build a meaningful life, nurturing relationships, and a fulfilling sexuality. My goal is to empower you to thrive, surround yourself with positive influences, and embrace your sexual self. As a nationally certified sex therapist with extensive training, I specialize in relationships, codependency, ADHD, and various sexual health concerns. These include low libido, erectile dysfunction, sexual pain, infidelity, sexual identity, midlife challenges, and post-menopausal issues. Together, we'll navigate your unique journey towards personal growth.
Welcome! Are you seeking better relationships or improved intimacy? I'm here to help you build a meaningful life, nurturing relationships, and a fulfilling sexuality. My goal is to empower you to thrive, surround yourself with positive influences, and embrace your sexual self. As a nationally certified sex therapist with extensive training, I specialize in relationships, codependency, ADHD, and various sexual health concerns. These include low libido, erectile dysfunction, sexual pain, infidelity, sexual identity, midlife challenges, and post-menopausal issues. Together, we'll navigate your unique journey towards personal growth.
(913) 210-8681 View (913) 210-8681
Photo of Holly Smith, MSFT, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Holly Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSFT, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Leawood, KS 66211
I love working with clients who are motivated to make meaningful change in their lives. So many of us carry old stories about ourselves that we have outgrown or that were never really true in the first place. You can expect a non-judgmental atmosphere to explore what is true for you & what you really want for your life. I use trauma-sensitive care when working through emotional and relational distress. If you are working through the complexities of ADHD, I can help.
I love working with clients who are motivated to make meaningful change in their lives. So many of us carry old stories about ourselves that we have outgrown or that were never really true in the first place. You can expect a non-judgmental atmosphere to explore what is true for you & what you really want for your life. I use trauma-sensitive care when working through emotional and relational distress. If you are working through the complexities of ADHD, I can help.
(913) 444-6348 View (913) 444-6348
Photo of Anissa S Day, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anissa S Day
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Olathe, KS 66061
I have a strong background in developmental and pre- or non-verbal trauma, early childhood intervention, attachment and adoption issues, and assisting families in navigating the emotional aspects of autism, ADHD, and other types of neurodiversity.
Is your child experiencing challenges understanding how they fit in the world, and managing their emotional responses? Or maybe your family has experienced some type of trauma or disruption that has been difficult to adjust to. Anxiety, depression, PTSD, developmental and behavior challenges can all leave parents feeling confused, profoundly isolated, and wondering how to get back to a place of peace. You are not alone, and neither is your child! I am here to provide support for your family as we navigate this path together. We can find the peace that is missing in the puzzle, and return you and your family to a place of hope.
I have a strong background in developmental and pre- or non-verbal trauma, early childhood intervention, attachment and adoption issues, and assisting families in navigating the emotional aspects of autism, ADHD, and other types of neurodiversity.
Is your child experiencing challenges understanding how they fit in the world, and managing their emotional responses? Or maybe your family has experienced some type of trauma or disruption that has been difficult to adjust to. Anxiety, depression, PTSD, developmental and behavior challenges can all leave parents feeling confused, profoundly isolated, and wondering how to get back to a place of peace. You are not alone, and neither is your child! I am here to provide support for your family as we navigate this path together. We can find the peace that is missing in the puzzle, and return you and your family to a place of hope.
(913) 392-5821 View (913) 392-5821
Photo of Kristen Dody, LPC, LCPC, Counselor
Kristen Dody
Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Shawnee, KS 66226  (Online Only)
I treat a range of concerns including ADHD, anxiety, coping skills, depression, oppositional defiance, peer relationship issues, and school issues.
Are you finding it difficult to support your child in effectively managing their behaviors and emotions, or navigating a strained relationship with them? You are not alone. I understand the complexities of these challenges and offer my support. One particular area of expertise I offer is Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), specifically designed for children and families encountering challenging behaviors or parent-child relationship issues. PCIT equips you, as the caregiver, with specific strategies to assist your child in managing their emotions and behaviors effectively.
I treat a range of concerns including ADHD, anxiety, coping skills, depression, oppositional defiance, peer relationship issues, and school issues.
Are you finding it difficult to support your child in effectively managing their behaviors and emotions, or navigating a strained relationship with them? You are not alone. I understand the complexities of these challenges and offer my support. One particular area of expertise I offer is Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), specifically designed for children and families encountering challenging behaviors or parent-child relationship issues. PCIT equips you, as the caregiver, with specific strategies to assist your child in managing their emotions and behaviors effectively.
(913) 246-5715 View (913) 246-5715
Photo of Joe Berry, MA, LCP, LMAC
Joe Berry
MA, LCP, LMAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lawrence, KS 66044
Do you ever wonder why your child engages in certain behaviors? All behavior has meaning and not knowing all the answers about your child can bring up a lot of different emotions. Mindful Guidance offers both individual and family therapy, as well as comprehensive ADHD assessments that are strengths-based and tailored specifically to the needs of your child and family. I recognize that growth takes time and can evoke strong emotions. As such, I work with you to foster a safe space to process situations, relationships, and events in your child's life to help set them up for success.
Do you ever wonder why your child engages in certain behaviors? All behavior has meaning and not knowing all the answers about your child can bring up a lot of different emotions. Mindful Guidance offers both individual and family therapy, as well as comprehensive ADHD assessments that are strengths-based and tailored specifically to the needs of your child and family. I recognize that growth takes time and can evoke strong emotions. As such, I work with you to foster a safe space to process situations, relationships, and events in your child's life to help set them up for success.
(785) 453-3475 View (785) 453-3475
Photo of Jim Lance Woodward, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jim Lance Woodward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66614
I think my therapy dog and the wooded view add to the relaxed feeling.
I treat people who suffer from panic disorders (and many other problems) with cognitive-behavioral therapy. I've studied 6 years of CBT at the Menninger Foundation and I have also studied at the Beck Institute in Philadelphia. Panic is basically a "false alarm". Panic happens when a person's body is producing powerful fight or flight chemicals at the wrong time. The body responds as if there is an emergency when there is no physical threat. The intense changes in heart rate and breathing etc. become subject to catastrophic misinterpretations, like "I'm dying" or "I'm losing control". These scary thoughts produce even more chemicals.
I think my therapy dog and the wooded view add to the relaxed feeling.
I treat people who suffer from panic disorders (and many other problems) with cognitive-behavioral therapy. I've studied 6 years of CBT at the Menninger Foundation and I have also studied at the Beck Institute in Philadelphia. Panic is basically a "false alarm". Panic happens when a person's body is producing powerful fight or flight chemicals at the wrong time. The body responds as if there is an emergency when there is no physical threat. The intense changes in heart rate and breathing etc. become subject to catastrophic misinterpretations, like "I'm dying" or "I'm losing control". These scary thoughts produce even more chemicals.
(785) 322-8592 View (785) 322-8592

See more therapy options for Jefferson County

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.