ADHD Therapists in 94109

Photo of Madison Messerli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94109, CA
Madison Messerli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109  (Online Only)
It’s very possible that you’re not lazy or unmotivated but instead dealing with symptoms of undiagnosed ADHD.
It’s 8 pm the night before your work project is due, and the pressure is on. Your boss assigned this three weeks ago, and you kept telling yourself you had more time. Now, there are less than 12 hours to hand it in, and you haven’t even begun. But, rather than finally starting, you look for anything else to do. “The oven could use a deep clean,” you decide to yourself. You watch the clock tick, and your stress builds until you have no choice but to start, but by then, it’s too late to do it right. So you hand in the work late again, rushed and full of errors. You hate letting yourself and others down but don’t know another way.
It’s very possible that you’re not lazy or unmotivated but instead dealing with symptoms of undiagnosed ADHD.
It’s 8 pm the night before your work project is due, and the pressure is on. Your boss assigned this three weeks ago, and you kept telling yourself you had more time. Now, there are less than 12 hours to hand it in, and you haven’t even begun. But, rather than finally starting, you look for anything else to do. “The oven could use a deep clean,” you decide to yourself. You watch the clock tick, and your stress builds until you have no choice but to start, but by then, it’s too late to do it right. So you hand in the work late again, rushed and full of errors. You hate letting yourself and others down but don’t know another way.
(415) 301-6908 View (415) 301-6908
Photo of Meg Fransee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94109, CA
Meg Fransee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94109
I have experience with a range of issues from ADHD, to bad breakups, to anxiety related to social media, to challenges with people pleasing.
I prioritize making the therapeutic environment active and flexible, creating space for all the overlapping spheres of the human experience. Between relationships, career, family, and the rest of the world, our lives and struggles are intertwined, making it sometimes hard to understand where one challenge starts or ends. By exploring the history and interconnectedness of our challenges and strengths, we can develop new understanding and identify strategies that feel nuanced, meaningful, and empowering. I maintain a client-centered approach allowing the client to work in a framework and pace that feels best for them.
I have experience with a range of issues from ADHD, to bad breakups, to anxiety related to social media, to challenges with people pleasing.
I prioritize making the therapeutic environment active and flexible, creating space for all the overlapping spheres of the human experience. Between relationships, career, family, and the rest of the world, our lives and struggles are intertwined, making it sometimes hard to understand where one challenge starts or ends. By exploring the history and interconnectedness of our challenges and strengths, we can develop new understanding and identify strategies that feel nuanced, meaningful, and empowering. I maintain a client-centered approach allowing the client to work in a framework and pace that feels best for them.
(510) 272-7364 View (510) 272-7364
Photo of Kathleen Hoffman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94109, CA
Kathleen Hoffman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109
She is skilled in supporting those experiencing depression and mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, ADHD, anger management, couples communication and clients adjusting to the changes and challenges life presents.
Kathleen Hoffman is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2014. She graduated from California State University, Sacramento with a Master of Science degree in Marriage and Family Counseling in 2007. Kathleen is multifaceted in her experience working with individuals (adolescents and adults from young to the senior years), couples, children, and families. She began her therapist journey in equine assisted therapy and then transitioned to a clinic setting.
She is skilled in supporting those experiencing depression and mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, ADHD, anger management, couples communication and clients adjusting to the changes and challenges life presents.
Kathleen Hoffman is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2014. She graduated from California State University, Sacramento with a Master of Science degree in Marriage and Family Counseling in 2007. Kathleen is multifaceted in her experience working with individuals (adolescents and adults from young to the senior years), couples, children, and families. She began her therapist journey in equine assisted therapy and then transitioned to a clinic setting.
(628) 277-5080 View (628) 277-5080
Photo of Bahaur Amini, Psychologist in 94109, CA
Bahaur Amini
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94109  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with relationship challenges, ADHD, trauma, grief and loss, cultural concerns, life transitions, stress, and anxiety. My clients describe me as personable, warm, knowledgeable, and collaborative. From working with students to high level executives and leaders, I am committed to offering high-quality care and helping you feeling more connected, grounded, and empowered. I love what I do, and as a relational therapist, I recognize that connection, trust, and understanding are foundational for growth. Stop by my website (aminipsychology.com) for detailed information about my approach, specialties & services!
I specialize in working with relationship challenges, ADHD, trauma, grief and loss, cultural concerns, life transitions, stress, and anxiety. My clients describe me as personable, warm, knowledgeable, and collaborative. From working with students to high level executives and leaders, I am committed to offering high-quality care and helping you feeling more connected, grounded, and empowered. I love what I do, and as a relational therapist, I recognize that connection, trust, and understanding are foundational for growth. Stop by my website (aminipsychology.com) for detailed information about my approach, specialties & services!
(510) 738-0165 View (510) 738-0165
Photo of Rebecca Stein Mind Body Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94109, CA
Rebecca Stein Mind Body Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109
Do you consistently experience BURNOUT and/or chronic PAIN? Do you feel like there is a constant pressure to do things and “do them right?” Do you struggle to FOCUS and wonder if you have ADHD? I provide thorough diagnostic evaluations, executive function coaching, and customized individual and COUPLES therapy. You will learn coping strategies, reconnect in AWE with yourself, your relationships, and life. I have had the privilege of helping clients at UCLA Medicine, The Pain Psychology Center, and Edward Hallowell ADHD Center. Certified ADHD Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP), IFS, ISTDP, CBT, DBT
Do you consistently experience BURNOUT and/or chronic PAIN? Do you feel like there is a constant pressure to do things and “do them right?” Do you struggle to FOCUS and wonder if you have ADHD? I provide thorough diagnostic evaluations, executive function coaching, and customized individual and COUPLES therapy. You will learn coping strategies, reconnect in AWE with yourself, your relationships, and life. I have had the privilege of helping clients at UCLA Medicine, The Pain Psychology Center, and Edward Hallowell ADHD Center. Certified ADHD Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP), IFS, ISTDP, CBT, DBT
(470) 450-3277 View (470) 450-3277
Photo of Amanda (Frederick) Wang, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 94109, CA
Amanda (Frederick) Wang
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Amanda! I specialize in working with children, teens, young adults, and parents or caregivers. Drawing from my experience as a former school therapist, I possess a deep understanding of the unique challenges and support systems necessary for the growth and development of children and teens. My approach includes nurturing coping skills, emotional awareness, and social skills to empower adolescents and foster resilience. I work with individuals seeking support for a range of needs and challenges, including ADHD, autism, anxiety, and eating disorders, including Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID).
Hello, I'm Amanda! I specialize in working with children, teens, young adults, and parents or caregivers. Drawing from my experience as a former school therapist, I possess a deep understanding of the unique challenges and support systems necessary for the growth and development of children and teens. My approach includes nurturing coping skills, emotional awareness, and social skills to empower adolescents and foster resilience. I work with individuals seeking support for a range of needs and challenges, including ADHD, autism, anxiety, and eating disorders, including Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID).
(415) 842-1573 View (415) 842-1573
Photo of Cristina Carter, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94109, CA
Cristina Carter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109
I support issues related to: anxiety, ADHD, life transitions, meaning and motivation, change and loss, stressful environments and complex trauma, identity (gender, cultural, sexuality), specific trauma, goal development, and building self-esteem.
Times are rough, tell me about it. I work with youth and young adults, as well as adults and families in a variety of situations. I focus on acceptance and personal growth, healing and change, finding meaning in your relationships, and building the confidence to face difficult situations. My approach is built on foundations of being culturally aware, trauma-informed, and authentic.
I support issues related to: anxiety, ADHD, life transitions, meaning and motivation, change and loss, stressful environments and complex trauma, identity (gender, cultural, sexuality), specific trauma, goal development, and building self-esteem.
Times are rough, tell me about it. I work with youth and young adults, as well as adults and families in a variety of situations. I focus on acceptance and personal growth, healing and change, finding meaning in your relationships, and building the confidence to face difficult situations. My approach is built on foundations of being culturally aware, trauma-informed, and authentic.
(415) 463-4607 View (415) 463-4607
Photo of Julie Schmidt, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94109, CA
Julie Schmidt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109
I work with those who are challenged with Depression, Anxiety, Adult ADHD; struggling Parents as well as those experiencing Grief and Loss.
Hello! My name is Julie Schmidt. I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) providing Client Centered counseling for Californians for nearly 20 years. I enjoy working with clients who are interested in improving their thinking, feeling, and behaviors as life brings us opportunities to explore our strengths and gain insight. People develop and experience their perspectives and feelings in their own unique way, therefore I offer a variety of approaches to therapy. I offer clients Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or "CBT" which emphasizes the link between thinking, feeling, and behaviors.
I work with those who are challenged with Depression, Anxiety, Adult ADHD; struggling Parents as well as those experiencing Grief and Loss.
Hello! My name is Julie Schmidt. I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) providing Client Centered counseling for Californians for nearly 20 years. I enjoy working with clients who are interested in improving their thinking, feeling, and behaviors as life brings us opportunities to explore our strengths and gain insight. People develop and experience their perspectives and feelings in their own unique way, therefore I offer a variety of approaches to therapy. I offer clients Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or "CBT" which emphasizes the link between thinking, feeling, and behaviors.
(415) 649-4717 View (415) 649-4717
Photo of Maxwell J Berlyant, Psychologist in 94109, CA
Maxwell J Berlyant
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109
I specialize in the treatment / assessment of Anxiety, OCD, Depression, Child Behavioral Problems, and ADHD – incorporating Psycho-education, Coping Skills Training, Parent Coaching, and Mindfulness approaches.
I obtained my Doctorate/Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Child and Family Psychology, from APA-accredited Palo Alto University, Pacific Graduate School of Psychology. My Postdoctoral Residency was completed at the Psychiatry Department in Kaiser Permanente, San Rafael. I hold a B.A. in Psychology from the University of California, Berkeley. I have worked in a variety of clinical settings with children, adolescents and adults providing individual, family, group, and couples therapy. I provide evidence based treatment from a strengths based perspective and have specialty training in CBT and DBT.
I specialize in the treatment / assessment of Anxiety, OCD, Depression, Child Behavioral Problems, and ADHD – incorporating Psycho-education, Coping Skills Training, Parent Coaching, and Mindfulness approaches.
I obtained my Doctorate/Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Child and Family Psychology, from APA-accredited Palo Alto University, Pacific Graduate School of Psychology. My Postdoctoral Residency was completed at the Psychiatry Department in Kaiser Permanente, San Rafael. I hold a B.A. in Psychology from the University of California, Berkeley. I have worked in a variety of clinical settings with children, adolescents and adults providing individual, family, group, and couples therapy. I provide evidence based treatment from a strengths based perspective and have specialty training in CBT and DBT.
(628) 243-4484 View (628) 243-4484
Photo of Becky Grenfell, Counselor in 94109, CA
Becky Grenfell
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109
As a clinician, my objective is to collaboratively tailor a plan that will aid you in achieving your goals. Often individuals seek assistance for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, family conflict, relationship difficulties, alcohol and substance use, ADHD, and life stressors. We can work on these together. Along with taking a strengths-based approach, I use a variety of evidence-based and creative techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, behavior modification, mindfulness, relaxation, art and play therapy, development of coping skills, family systems, and more.
As a clinician, my objective is to collaboratively tailor a plan that will aid you in achieving your goals. Often individuals seek assistance for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, family conflict, relationship difficulties, alcohol and substance use, ADHD, and life stressors. We can work on these together. Along with taking a strengths-based approach, I use a variety of evidence-based and creative techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, behavior modification, mindfulness, relaxation, art and play therapy, development of coping skills, family systems, and more.
(628) 666-6251 View (628) 666-6251
Photo of Leti Arellano, Psychologist in 94109, CA
Leti Arellano
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109  (Online Only)
If you or a loved one are seeking an evaluation for Autism or ADHD, we invite you to contact us to schedule an appointment.
Are you a navigating life's complexities, seeking understanding and validation for your experiences? Do you often feel misunderstood ? If so, you've arrived at a place where your uniqueness is not just acknowledged but celebrated. My name is Dr. Leticia Arellano (she/her), and I specialize in providing psychological evaluations for individuals like you who are exploring the possibility of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other forms of neurodivergence.
If you or a loved one are seeking an evaluation for Autism or ADHD, we invite you to contact us to schedule an appointment.
Are you a navigating life's complexities, seeking understanding and validation for your experiences? Do you often feel misunderstood ? If so, you've arrived at a place where your uniqueness is not just acknowledged but celebrated. My name is Dr. Leticia Arellano (she/her), and I specialize in providing psychological evaluations for individuals like you who are exploring the possibility of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other forms of neurodivergence.
(530) 561-5399 View (530) 561-5399
Photo of Rima Salem, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94109, CA
Rima Salem
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109
Rima has had an extensive history working with individuals who enter counseling for trauma exposure, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, ADHD, parenting and couples support, family therapy, and a variety of other life challenges.
Rima is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with over 15 years of clinical experience working with a variety of individuals, children, and families on their goals for overall health and wellbeing. Rima began her professional career as an elementary school teacher, where she developed a desire to help her students and families cope with the stressors in life that made education challenging. Witnessing the struggles of the children in her classroom left a lasting impression on Rima, and she knew that she wanted to help the community in a different way.
Rima has had an extensive history working with individuals who enter counseling for trauma exposure, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, ADHD, parenting and couples support, family therapy, and a variety of other life challenges.
Rima is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with over 15 years of clinical experience working with a variety of individuals, children, and families on their goals for overall health and wellbeing. Rima began her professional career as an elementary school teacher, where she developed a desire to help her students and families cope with the stressors in life that made education challenging. Witnessing the struggles of the children in her classroom left a lasting impression on Rima, and she knew that she wanted to help the community in a different way.
(628) 200-2978 View (628) 200-2978
Photo of Dudley Luke, Psychologist in 94109, CA
Dudley Luke
Psychologist, EdM, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109
Waitlist for new clients
With training from top national universities and experience at well known agencies, I have effectively treated individuals with anxiety, mood disorder, and ADHD. As well, having worked at the Regional Center for the past 8 years, I have gained extensive knowledge and experience in my work with individuals on the Autism Spectrum, including Aspergers Syndrome. I work therapeutically with children (10 year old and older), adolescents, and young adults. I conduct psycho-educational and psycho-diagnostic assessments as well as comprehensive Autism Spectrum assessments with children ( 6 years old and older), adolescents, and adults.
With training from top national universities and experience at well known agencies, I have effectively treated individuals with anxiety, mood disorder, and ADHD. As well, having worked at the Regional Center for the past 8 years, I have gained extensive knowledge and experience in my work with individuals on the Autism Spectrum, including Aspergers Syndrome. I work therapeutically with children (10 year old and older), adolescents, and young adults. I conduct psycho-educational and psycho-diagnostic assessments as well as comprehensive Autism Spectrum assessments with children ( 6 years old and older), adolescents, and adults.
(650) 656-2769 View (650) 656-2769
Photo of Savannah Wagner Belk, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 94109, CA
Savannah Wagner Belk
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94109
My passion is to support others in discovering their strengths, values, and how to make change in their relationships, behaviors, and lives. We will observe all the factors that may be contributing to the ways you're feeling stuck as well as helping you work through patterns that aren’t serving you, or relationships that need boundaries. I use evidence-based strategies to look at unhelpful thought patterns and guide you using mind/body approaches. I enjoy working with children struggling with ADHD, pre-teens and teens dealing with academic and confidence issues, parents, and young adults going through life transitions.
My passion is to support others in discovering their strengths, values, and how to make change in their relationships, behaviors, and lives. We will observe all the factors that may be contributing to the ways you're feeling stuck as well as helping you work through patterns that aren’t serving you, or relationships that need boundaries. I use evidence-based strategies to look at unhelpful thought patterns and guide you using mind/body approaches. I enjoy working with children struggling with ADHD, pre-teens and teens dealing with academic and confidence issues, parents, and young adults going through life transitions.
(415) 702-4586 View (415) 702-4586
Photo of Rachel Holowicki, Licensed Educational Psychologist in 94109, CA
Rachel Holowicki
Licensed Educational Psychologist, MEd, EdS, LEP
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109
Waitlist for new clients
I feel incredibly fortunate to have the ability to help children and families understand and navigate learning differences and disabilities. The special education/IEP process can be overwhelming, and I am happy to help guide you and your family to make the best decisions for your child. I truly believe every child can be successful, and it's so rewarding to help children reach their full potential. I work often with children with learning disabilities like dyslexia, ADHD, Autism, and intellectual and developmental disabilities.
I feel incredibly fortunate to have the ability to help children and families understand and navigate learning differences and disabilities. The special education/IEP process can be overwhelming, and I am happy to help guide you and your family to make the best decisions for your child. I truly believe every child can be successful, and it's so rewarding to help children reach their full potential. I work often with children with learning disabilities like dyslexia, ADHD, Autism, and intellectual and developmental disabilities.
(415) 592-7875 View (415) 592-7875
Photo of Randi Beckman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94109, CA
Randi Beckman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109
In addition, I provide personalized parent coaching and support (in particular, helping parents who have children with developmental disabilities, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD).
Wanting support to help you feel: Less Stressed, Grounded and Centered, More Productive, Present and Engaged, Happy in Life and Relationships. I intend to provide a nurturing and empathic presence to create the space needed to help you identify, understand, and move beyond what keeps you from experiencing more profound inner peace. I assist people in connecting back their true essence of who they truly are at their core.
In addition, I provide personalized parent coaching and support (in particular, helping parents who have children with developmental disabilities, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD).
Wanting support to help you feel: Less Stressed, Grounded and Centered, More Productive, Present and Engaged, Happy in Life and Relationships. I intend to provide a nurturing and empathic presence to create the space needed to help you identify, understand, and move beyond what keeps you from experiencing more profound inner peace. I assist people in connecting back their true essence of who they truly are at their core.
(805) 600-8634 View (805) 600-8634
Photo of choicetherapy psychological services, inc., Psychologist in 94109, CA
choicetherapy psychological services, inc.
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94109
She also provides testing, therapy and coaching for adults with ADHD / ADD and chronic pain.
Marisa T. Mazza, Psy.D. is a licensed psychologist. She enjoys helping people learn new ways of interacting with thoughts and feelings so they can live meaningful lives. Her approach allows individuals to face their fears in a gradual and gentle way.
She also provides testing, therapy and coaching for adults with ADHD / ADD and chronic pain.
Marisa T. Mazza, Psy.D. is a licensed psychologist. She enjoys helping people learn new ways of interacting with thoughts and feelings so they can live meaningful lives. Her approach allows individuals to face their fears in a gradual and gentle way.
(415) 729-3949 View (415) 729-3949
Photo of Dawn Lawhon, Psychologist in 94109, CA
Dawn Lawhon
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109  (Online Only)
Feeling overwhelmed by work and as though you’ve lost the way forward? I specialize in individual therapy for healthcare professionals and others in highly demanding jobs seeking to recover from anxiety, stress, and burnout, and to re-find their sense of passion, purpose, and meaning. I especially enjoy working with adult ADHDers and others who identify as neurodivergent. Together, we'll consider the full range of your stressors (at work and away from it), assess the impact of the systems in which you work and live, and identify the ways of coping and growing that are most helpful for you.
Feeling overwhelmed by work and as though you’ve lost the way forward? I specialize in individual therapy for healthcare professionals and others in highly demanding jobs seeking to recover from anxiety, stress, and burnout, and to re-find their sense of passion, purpose, and meaning. I especially enjoy working with adult ADHDers and others who identify as neurodivergent. Together, we'll consider the full range of your stressors (at work and away from it), assess the impact of the systems in which you work and live, and identify the ways of coping and growing that are most helpful for you.
(415) 843-8167 View (415) 843-8167
Photo of Kayla Haberern, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in 94109, CA
Kayla Haberern
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109
Welcome to Feet in the Sand Holistic Therapy! Whether you are seeking therapy for yourself, a child, or your family, this can be a very difficult process, so I honor your wisdom and your steps in your healing journey. With many years of experience, I specialize in working with infants and children, families, and pregnant and postpartum women. I deeply care about you as a client and my heart is truly in this work.
Welcome to Feet in the Sand Holistic Therapy! Whether you are seeking therapy for yourself, a child, or your family, this can be a very difficult process, so I honor your wisdom and your steps in your healing journey. With many years of experience, I specialize in working with infants and children, families, and pregnant and postpartum women. I deeply care about you as a client and my heart is truly in this work.
(628) 257-8438 View (628) 257-8438
Photo of Heather DaVault, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94109, CA
Heather DaVault
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109
Hi there, I'm Heather! One of the bravest things you can do is ask for help. Imagine traveling on a path and not knowing where you are headed. I imagine you might feel lost, afraid, alone, and unsure of which way to go. Perhaps you have suffered from uncontrollable worry, depression, or loss. Know that you are not alone. Discovering your inherent gifts, strengths/weaknesses, and setbacks can lead to healing for now, for tomorrow, and for the rest of your life. What if you had a travel partner to help support and navigate life's road map? I want to join you on this journey of self-discovery.
Hi there, I'm Heather! One of the bravest things you can do is ask for help. Imagine traveling on a path and not knowing where you are headed. I imagine you might feel lost, afraid, alone, and unsure of which way to go. Perhaps you have suffered from uncontrollable worry, depression, or loss. Know that you are not alone. Discovering your inherent gifts, strengths/weaknesses, and setbacks can lead to healing for now, for tomorrow, and for the rest of your life. What if you had a travel partner to help support and navigate life's road map? I want to join you on this journey of self-discovery.
(415) 329-7834 View (415) 329-7834
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.