ADHD Therapists in Charlotte, NC

Photo of Andrew Sydney, MA, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrew Sydney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28226
I created Beacon Light Counseling in order to support teen, young adult, and adult populations suffering from a variety of issues including (but not limited to): ADHD, anger, anxiety, depression, family and interpersonal/romantic relationships, and trauma.
My primary goal for our first session is for you to leave feeling a bit more positive and hopeful. I strive to create a relaxed environment that is devoid of judgement. I hope that we can build a trusting relationship in which you feel comfortable opening up and exploring your life, vulnerabilities, and strengths. I'd like to help you in your journey to find more fulfillment and peace in your life.
I created Beacon Light Counseling in order to support teen, young adult, and adult populations suffering from a variety of issues including (but not limited to): ADHD, anger, anxiety, depression, family and interpersonal/romantic relationships, and trauma.
My primary goal for our first session is for you to leave feeling a bit more positive and hopeful. I strive to create a relaxed environment that is devoid of judgement. I hope that we can build a trusting relationship in which you feel comfortable opening up and exploring your life, vulnerabilities, and strengths. I'd like to help you in your journey to find more fulfillment and peace in your life.
(704) 275-9252 View (704) 275-9252
Photo of Anne E Wiggins, MSW, LCSW, CTLE, CGP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne E Wiggins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CTLE, CGP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28273
I help with ADHD, stress management, and anxiety to assist with providing appropriate coping skills.
I am a mental health professional with 15 plus years of experience, specializing in working with all ages during stressful times. I assist with bringing oneself back to independence and improving self worth through movement therapy, solution focused CBT, reality based therapy, and structure. When you feel out of control, rejected, or disappointed, I am here to assist you with finding peace of mind. I can provide problem solving, coping, and organizational skills to assist with mental clarity and wellness, as well as instilling hope. I am an empathetic and loving individual who easily understands what you might be going through.
I help with ADHD, stress management, and anxiety to assist with providing appropriate coping skills.
I am a mental health professional with 15 plus years of experience, specializing in working with all ages during stressful times. I assist with bringing oneself back to independence and improving self worth through movement therapy, solution focused CBT, reality based therapy, and structure. When you feel out of control, rejected, or disappointed, I am here to assist you with finding peace of mind. I can provide problem solving, coping, and organizational skills to assist with mental clarity and wellness, as well as instilling hope. I am an empathetic and loving individual who easily understands what you might be going through.
(704) 490-4242 View (704) 490-4242
Photo of Gretchen Hunter - Child & Family Development, PhD, Psychologist
Child & Family Development
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28209
C&FD psychologists are experienced diagnosticians and practitioners. Our counselors provide a range of services including play therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and parent coaching. We have a developmental and behavioral pediatrician on staff who provides medication management. We specialize in children, adolescents, young adults, and parents. Common concerns include emotion regulation and behavioral problems, anxiety, ADHD, and ASD.
C&FD psychologists are experienced diagnosticians and practitioners. Our counselors provide a range of services including play therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and parent coaching. We have a developmental and behavioral pediatrician on staff who provides medication management. We specialize in children, adolescents, young adults, and parents. Common concerns include emotion regulation and behavioral problems, anxiety, ADHD, and ASD.
(704) 325-4825 View (704) 325-4825
Photo of Michelle M. Tolison, LPC-S, RPT-S, LMHC, MS
Michelle M. Tolison
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, LPC-S, RPT-S, LMHC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
It's as if you are walking on egg shells every single day. Your child is controlling, bossy, stubborn and strong-willed. You've given up on 'my way or the high way' because the tantrums are just no longer worth it. Your son or daughter has ADHD, Aspergers, or is Gifted. You need help. You are looking for answers and solutions- and need immediate support to get back in charge. Some days it is absolutely exhausting- and other days it is so easy! There's the battles, the refusing to wear certain clothes, picky eating, not doing chores, not listening, not doing homework, acting out and the list goes on.
It's as if you are walking on egg shells every single day. Your child is controlling, bossy, stubborn and strong-willed. You've given up on 'my way or the high way' because the tantrums are just no longer worth it. Your son or daughter has ADHD, Aspergers, or is Gifted. You need help. You are looking for answers and solutions- and need immediate support to get back in charge. Some days it is absolutely exhausting- and other days it is so easy! There's the battles, the refusing to wear certain clothes, picky eating, not doing chores, not listening, not doing homework, acting out and the list goes on.
(704) 209-7741 View (704) 209-7741
Photo of Erica C Sides, MSW, LCSW-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erica C Sides
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28205
I have many passions, including working with trauma ADHD, depression, anxiety, self-harm & suicidality.
They say that if life gives you lemons, make lemonade; but what if life has been throwing lemons at you since you were too little to even know how to make lemonade? What happens if you don’t even like lemonade? More often than not, chaos tends to occur when we are too young to know what to do or how to recover. Early childhood trauma leaves us broken and questioning our roadmap. That's where I come in because in the words of one of my favorite authors, Sarah J Maas; “Only you can decide what breaks you.”
I have many passions, including working with trauma ADHD, depression, anxiety, self-harm & suicidality.
They say that if life gives you lemons, make lemonade; but what if life has been throwing lemons at you since you were too little to even know how to make lemonade? What happens if you don’t even like lemonade? More often than not, chaos tends to occur when we are too young to know what to do or how to recover. Early childhood trauma leaves us broken and questioning our roadmap. That's where I come in because in the words of one of my favorite authors, Sarah J Maas; “Only you can decide what breaks you.”
(980) 983-1156 View (980) 983-1156
Photo of Annie Handley, LSCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Annie Handley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28202  (Online Only)
I use a collaborative and strengths-based approach to address: grief and loss, caregiver support, anxiety, and ADHD in a world that is overbooked and filled with challenges.
Change is painful, but nothing is as painful as remaining stuck where you don't belong. Life is change. I help people navigate through life's changes and losses. Whether it's the death of a loved one, the loss of a pet, a relationship ending or a career transition, your grief is valid and real. I specialize in guiding people through the storm and come out the other side, not only surviving, but thriving. My job is to help give you new tools to work through the transition and loss and help you rediscover yourself along the way.
I use a collaborative and strengths-based approach to address: grief and loss, caregiver support, anxiety, and ADHD in a world that is overbooked and filled with challenges.
Change is painful, but nothing is as painful as remaining stuck where you don't belong. Life is change. I help people navigate through life's changes and losses. Whether it's the death of a loved one, the loss of a pet, a relationship ending or a career transition, your grief is valid and real. I specialize in guiding people through the storm and come out the other side, not only surviving, but thriving. My job is to help give you new tools to work through the transition and loss and help you rediscover yourself along the way.
(913) 374-6764 View (913) 374-6764
Photo of Kate Connelly, PhD, LP, HSP-P, Psychologist
Kate Connelly
Psychologist, PhD, LP, HSP-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204  (Online Only)
Are you wondering if your are Autistic, AuDHD, or ADHD? Do you know your neurotype but need a safe space to explore burnout recovery, learn more about yourself, or get support? I offer Neurodivergent-affirming assessment and therapy to empower adults of all ages. Neurodivergent-affirming assessment can help you discover if you are Autistic, AuDHD, or ADHD. I specialize working with women, AFAB individuals, and people with non-stereotypical Autism and Neurodivergence. Discovering Autism or ADHD later in adulthood can be a very positive event for many, helping them understand themselves and their life experiences more deeply.
Are you wondering if your are Autistic, AuDHD, or ADHD? Do you know your neurotype but need a safe space to explore burnout recovery, learn more about yourself, or get support? I offer Neurodivergent-affirming assessment and therapy to empower adults of all ages. Neurodivergent-affirming assessment can help you discover if you are Autistic, AuDHD, or ADHD. I specialize working with women, AFAB individuals, and people with non-stereotypical Autism and Neurodivergence. Discovering Autism or ADHD later in adulthood can be a very positive event for many, helping them understand themselves and their life experiences more deeply.
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Photo of Kim Boubon - Clarity Counseling Services Inc., LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kim Boubon - Clarity Counseling Services Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
Hello! Accepting in-person new clients. Asking for help can be difficult but often necessary in order to make the changes that will improve the quality of our lives. I'm originally from Southern California and have lived in Charlotte for several years. I'm a licensed therapist with a degree in psychology and a master's in clinical social work. I'm skilled at treating many mental health challenges and specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship issues & more. I have a gentle "no-nonsense" approach that clients find VERY productive throughout the course of therapy.
Hello! Accepting in-person new clients. Asking for help can be difficult but often necessary in order to make the changes that will improve the quality of our lives. I'm originally from Southern California and have lived in Charlotte for several years. I'm a licensed therapist with a degree in psychology and a master's in clinical social work. I'm skilled at treating many mental health challenges and specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship issues & more. I have a gentle "no-nonsense" approach that clients find VERY productive throughout the course of therapy.
(704) 413-3742 View (704) 413-3742
Photo of Alexandra Hiatt Duffy, PsyD, Psychologist
Alexandra Hiatt Duffy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
Waitlist for new clients
I also provide online sessions with students of all ages (and even parents) to address issues with learning, such as dyslexia, ADHD, learning disabilities and executive functioning issues (e.
Hi there! I am a clinical psychologist licensed in North Carolina, California, Massachusetts, and Washington State. I am also credentialed with PSYPACT to provide telepsychology services across state boundaries. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, panic disorder, ADHD, eating disorder /body image issues & Bipolar Disorder. In Charlotte, NC, I also offer in-office Charlotte Area Independent School (CAIS) admissions testing, as well as ADHD, learning disability, and dyslexia testing.
I also provide online sessions with students of all ages (and even parents) to address issues with learning, such as dyslexia, ADHD, learning disabilities and executive functioning issues (e.
Hi there! I am a clinical psychologist licensed in North Carolina, California, Massachusetts, and Washington State. I am also credentialed with PSYPACT to provide telepsychology services across state boundaries. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, panic disorder, ADHD, eating disorder /body image issues & Bipolar Disorder. In Charlotte, NC, I also offer in-office Charlotte Area Independent School (CAIS) admissions testing, as well as ADHD, learning disability, and dyslexia testing.
(424) 292-6028 View (424) 292-6028
Photo of Tonya Becker, LCMHC, Counselor
Tonya Becker
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202  (Online Only)
My expertise extends to working with adults of all ages, adolescents, children, couples, and families facing a spectrum of challenges, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, ADHD, and stress.
Hey there! Whether you stumbled upon this journey by chance or took a leap of faith, I'm thrilled to be your co-pilot in this therapeutic adventure. With over 15 years of experience as a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina, and 6 of those years focused solely on counseling, I've had the privilege of walking alongside folks from all walks of life. Together, let's navigate the twists and turns of your path towards growth and healing.
My expertise extends to working with adults of all ages, adolescents, children, couples, and families facing a spectrum of challenges, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, ADHD, and stress.
Hey there! Whether you stumbled upon this journey by chance or took a leap of faith, I'm thrilled to be your co-pilot in this therapeutic adventure. With over 15 years of experience as a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina, and 6 of those years focused solely on counseling, I've had the privilege of walking alongside folks from all walks of life. Together, let's navigate the twists and turns of your path towards growth and healing.
(980) 655-2430 View (980) 655-2430
Photo of Larry Clark, MA, LCMHC, LCASA, LPC, Counselor
Larry Clark
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCASA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262  (Online Only)
Specialty areas are ADHD, high functioning Autism, LGBTQ+, addictions & recovery, sex positive mindset and intimate relationship development, & the international diversity of Ex-Pats.
Choosing a therapist is like embarking on a journey to a faraway destination. There are many routes you can take; some may be fast, others may be slow, other routes can show you things you never dreamed possible and some routes are routine. Taking the wrong route can be disappointing whereas the correct route can be life changing. I encourage you to find a therapist who fits your style, someone who will ride along and explore with you, and someone who you enjoy being with through the trials and tribulations, as well as the happiness and joy, of your unique journey. I hope I fit the role of your navigator in this journey we call life
Specialty areas are ADHD, high functioning Autism, LGBTQ+, addictions & recovery, sex positive mindset and intimate relationship development, & the international diversity of Ex-Pats.
Choosing a therapist is like embarking on a journey to a faraway destination. There are many routes you can take; some may be fast, others may be slow, other routes can show you things you never dreamed possible and some routes are routine. Taking the wrong route can be disappointing whereas the correct route can be life changing. I encourage you to find a therapist who fits your style, someone who will ride along and explore with you, and someone who you enjoy being with through the trials and tribulations, as well as the happiness and joy, of your unique journey. I hope I fit the role of your navigator in this journey we call life
(980) 236-1792 View (980) 236-1792
Photo of Reed Beeley, MSW, LCSWA
Reed Beeley
LCSW Associate, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
My name is Reed, and I specialize in substance use/abuse—including sex, gambling, and shopping problems, as well as bipolar disorder, eating disorders/disordered eating, ASD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and anger management. Each session is highly individualized to your needs. Our sessions will consist of a partnership built upon mutual respect and understanding. I use a strength-based approach that focuses on personal growth. You have control over the direction of each session.
My name is Reed, and I specialize in substance use/abuse—including sex, gambling, and shopping problems, as well as bipolar disorder, eating disorders/disordered eating, ASD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and anger management. Each session is highly individualized to your needs. Our sessions will consist of a partnership built upon mutual respect and understanding. I use a strength-based approach that focuses on personal growth. You have control over the direction of each session.
(980) 944-4536 View (980) 944-4536
Photo of Elizabeth Abowd, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Abowd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
Distracted? Feeling overwhelmed by "the basics?" Wish you could just focus? ADHD is real. The challenges it brings can be difficult to navigate, especially when other people don’t understand what ADHD really is. I know because I have ADHD. My expertise isn’t just from a textbook or clinical experience—it’s from my life, too. Whether you received your diagnosis years ago or just last week, or you wonder if you might have ADHD, I am here to assist you on your journey.
Distracted? Feeling overwhelmed by "the basics?" Wish you could just focus? ADHD is real. The challenges it brings can be difficult to navigate, especially when other people don’t understand what ADHD really is. I know because I have ADHD. My expertise isn’t just from a textbook or clinical experience—it’s from my life, too. Whether you received your diagnosis years ago or just last week, or you wonder if you might have ADHD, I am here to assist you on your journey.
(704) 228-4188 View (704) 228-4188
Photo of Kristen Lynn McClure, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Lynn McClure
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28209  (Online Only)
Are you a neurodivergent woman with ADHD, AuDHD, anxiety, or depression? I offer neurodivergent-affirming support to help you navigate life's challenges with self-compassion and care. My ideal client is a woman ready to stop pushing herself beyond her breaking point. She seeks to practice self-compassion, understand and trust her emotions, and prioritize self-care to heal from society's constant demands. She wants to uncover her strengths, set healthy boundaries, and discard societal messages that she is unworthy or flawed. Reach out today to start your journey.
Are you a neurodivergent woman with ADHD, AuDHD, anxiety, or depression? I offer neurodivergent-affirming support to help you navigate life's challenges with self-compassion and care. My ideal client is a woman ready to stop pushing herself beyond her breaking point. She seeks to practice self-compassion, understand and trust her emotions, and prioritize self-care to heal from society's constant demands. She wants to uncover her strengths, set healthy boundaries, and discard societal messages that she is unworthy or flawed. Reach out today to start your journey.
(704) 751-5086 View (704) 751-5086
Photo of Ashley B Hines, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ashley B Hines
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28205
I specialize in working with clients challenged with anxiety, depression, family/relationship issues and ADHD.
I have spent much of my mental health career serving teens and families. I also have experience working with couples experiencing a range of challenges. I find solution focused and narrative driven approaches to be the most effective and supportive methods.
I specialize in working with clients challenged with anxiety, depression, family/relationship issues and ADHD.
I have spent much of my mental health career serving teens and families. I also have experience working with couples experiencing a range of challenges. I find solution focused and narrative driven approaches to be the most effective and supportive methods.
(704) 270-2805 View (704) 270-2805
Photo of Stanasia Gaston, LCMHC, NCC, LCASA, Counselor
Stanasia Gaston
Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, LCASA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28206  (Online Only)
Depression, anxiety, ADHD, boundary setting, family conflicts, coping skills and self-esteem are some of the many concerns addressed in therapy.
I have a passion for working with children adolescents, and adults. I have been working in the counseling profession for 8 years. I enjoy showcasing and assisting my clients in identifying and building on their strengths in order to help them become the best version of themselves. I aim to establish a welcoming and safe environment where people may come as they are and process their life issues and experiences. Although we all encounter various obstacles in life, it's vital to remember that you don't have to tackle them alone.
Depression, anxiety, ADHD, boundary setting, family conflicts, coping skills and self-esteem are some of the many concerns addressed in therapy.
I have a passion for working with children adolescents, and adults. I have been working in the counseling profession for 8 years. I enjoy showcasing and assisting my clients in identifying and building on their strengths in order to help them become the best version of themselves. I aim to establish a welcoming and safe environment where people may come as they are and process their life issues and experiences. Although we all encounter various obstacles in life, it's vital to remember that you don't have to tackle them alone.
(980) 577-6189 View (980) 577-6189
Photo of Jessica Campbell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202  (Online Only)
My areas of expertise include Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Eating Disorders, Marital/Relationship Issues, Codependency, Grief, Divorce Adjustment, Parenting Issues and Education, and Stress Management.
I am an LCSW based out of Raleigh, NC specializing in individual, couple's and family therapy. I received my Master’s in Social Work with a Concentration in Mental Health and Substance Abuse at Fayetteville State University. While attending FSU, I completed the Substance Abuse Licensure Program at UNC Chapel Hill. As way to ensure that my community received the help they needed, I created and implemented the Substance Abuse Program in the Social Work Department at Fayetteville State. With the assistance of my professor at FSU and the board member/ professor at UNC Chapel Hill, Worth Bolton of the before I graduated in May 2013.
My areas of expertise include Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Eating Disorders, Marital/Relationship Issues, Codependency, Grief, Divorce Adjustment, Parenting Issues and Education, and Stress Management.
I am an LCSW based out of Raleigh, NC specializing in individual, couple's and family therapy. I received my Master’s in Social Work with a Concentration in Mental Health and Substance Abuse at Fayetteville State University. While attending FSU, I completed the Substance Abuse Licensure Program at UNC Chapel Hill. As way to ensure that my community received the help they needed, I created and implemented the Substance Abuse Program in the Social Work Department at Fayetteville State. With the assistance of my professor at FSU and the board member/ professor at UNC Chapel Hill, Worth Bolton of the before I graduated in May 2013.
(980) 243-4711 View (980) 243-4711
Photo of Chris Nealy, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chris Nealy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28270  (Online Only)
As a member of the neurodivergent community, I specialize in working with others who experience life with ADHD or Autism.
Do you find yourself setting goals that you rarely reach? Do you often feel that you've worked your hardest all day yet failed to complete the tasks in front of you? Living with executive functioning challenges can present invisible obstacles that others may minimize or dismiss as excuses. If you have ADHD and/or Autism, you are likely familiar with these situations, as well as the impact these repeated experiences can have on your emotional and mental well-being. As a person with ADHD, I assure you there are solutions!
As a member of the neurodivergent community, I specialize in working with others who experience life with ADHD or Autism.
Do you find yourself setting goals that you rarely reach? Do you often feel that you've worked your hardest all day yet failed to complete the tasks in front of you? Living with executive functioning challenges can present invisible obstacles that others may minimize or dismiss as excuses. If you have ADHD and/or Autism, you are likely familiar with these situations, as well as the impact these repeated experiences can have on your emotional and mental well-being. As a person with ADHD, I assure you there are solutions!
(980) 291-7072 View (980) 291-7072
Photo of Stephanie Pierrenoel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Pierrenoel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28209  (Online Only)
Stephanie is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of North Carolina, South Carolina, and Florida with 10 years of experience working with adults, children, and families. Stephanie works with adults to treat anxiety, depression, and trauma to include domestic violence and recent or childhood abuse. She also partners with clients to address childhood disorders including oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder and accompanying parental support, ADHD in children, autism spectrum disorders, anxiety, depression, and trauma. She is comfortable with populations with experiences in the child welfare or foster care system
Stephanie is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of North Carolina, South Carolina, and Florida with 10 years of experience working with adults, children, and families. Stephanie works with adults to treat anxiety, depression, and trauma to include domestic violence and recent or childhood abuse. She also partners with clients to address childhood disorders including oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder and accompanying parental support, ADHD in children, autism spectrum disorders, anxiety, depression, and trauma. She is comfortable with populations with experiences in the child welfare or foster care system
(704) 761-6787 View (704) 761-6787
Photo of Olga Maly, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Olga Maly
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28226
I work with individuals and couples dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, ASD, PTSD, HSP, relationship problems, LGBTQ+, and identity issues.
Therapy is a journey to self-empowerment and deeper self-awareness. Whether your struggle with anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues, therapy is a place where you can safely explore the most profound aspects of your mind, recognize your true wants and needs, and learn to effectively regulate your emotions while fostering connection and positive engagement with yourself and the world around you. Therapy can help you better understand how to harmonize the mind-body connection for optimal well-being, life satisfaction, and happiness.
I work with individuals and couples dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, ASD, PTSD, HSP, relationship problems, LGBTQ+, and identity issues.
Therapy is a journey to self-empowerment and deeper self-awareness. Whether your struggle with anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues, therapy is a place where you can safely explore the most profound aspects of your mind, recognize your true wants and needs, and learn to effectively regulate your emotions while fostering connection and positive engagement with yourself and the world around you. Therapy can help you better understand how to harmonize the mind-body connection for optimal well-being, life satisfaction, and happiness.
(980) 246-4420 View (980) 246-4420
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.