ADHD Therapists in 22124

Photo of Matthew Ryan, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Matthew Ryan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Vienna, VA 22124
Specialties Include: ADHD, ADD - Sports Performance - Family Dynamics - Mental toughness/coping mechanisms - Crisis interventions - Risk Assessment - Life's transitions - Anxiety - Autism - Bipolar Disorder - Parenting skills - Grief & Bereavement - Depression - Marriage and Divorce Counseling - PTSD - Social Skills.
I have been in the psychology/counseling field since 2002. I am currently a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Commonwealth of Virginia, National Certified Counselor (NCC). As a former NCAA D1 athlete, I feel strongly that exercise is an important component to a healthy mind, body, and soul. I have a sharp interest incorporating this philosophy in my workings as a licensed mental health therapist. I currently am a therapist in McLean, Va working for Ryan Counseling, PLLC. I was nominated and featured in 2012, 2014, 2017, 2022 Northern Virginia Magazine "Top Doctors."
Specialties Include: ADHD, ADD - Sports Performance - Family Dynamics - Mental toughness/coping mechanisms - Crisis interventions - Risk Assessment - Life's transitions - Anxiety - Autism - Bipolar Disorder - Parenting skills - Grief & Bereavement - Depression - Marriage and Divorce Counseling - PTSD - Social Skills.
I have been in the psychology/counseling field since 2002. I am currently a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Commonwealth of Virginia, National Certified Counselor (NCC). As a former NCAA D1 athlete, I feel strongly that exercise is an important component to a healthy mind, body, and soul. I have a sharp interest incorporating this philosophy in my workings as a licensed mental health therapist. I currently am a therapist in McLean, Va working for Ryan Counseling, PLLC. I was nominated and featured in 2012, 2014, 2017, 2022 Northern Virginia Magazine "Top Doctors."
(703) 291-1738 View (703) 291-1738
Photo of Jennifer Shore - Fairfax Mental Health and Wellness, Psychologist
Fairfax Mental Health and Wellness
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Oakton, VA 22124
We started with therapy and psychological testing but grew to add medication management to FMHW after our patients informed us that other practices never had availability.
Fairfax Mental Health and Wellness (FMHW) provides integrated mental health services to the greater Virginia/Maryland/DC area. We treat a wide range of conditions including but limited to anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, PTSD, OCD, Adjustment Disorders, Mood Disorders and more. We treat patients ranging in age from 5 to 60. Our practice was founded in 2013 by Dr. Jennifer Shore and now employs over 40 clinical staff including psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, psychologists, counselors, social workers and doctoral interns.
We started with therapy and psychological testing but grew to add medication management to FMHW after our patients informed us that other practices never had availability.
Fairfax Mental Health and Wellness (FMHW) provides integrated mental health services to the greater Virginia/Maryland/DC area. We treat a wide range of conditions including but limited to anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, PTSD, OCD, Adjustment Disorders, Mood Disorders and more. We treat patients ranging in age from 5 to 60. Our practice was founded in 2013 by Dr. Jennifer Shore and now employs over 40 clinical staff including psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, psychologists, counselors, social workers and doctoral interns.
(571) 556-8535 View (571) 556-8535
Photo of Michelle Rad Psyd Lcp, MA, PsyD, LCP, Psychologist
Michelle Rad Psyd Lcp
Psychologist, MA, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vienna, VA 22124
Anxiety, depression, self esteem, ADHD, pain and weight management, and eating DOs are some areas of my expertise.
In 2007, I started a small, quality and evidence based therapeutic, neuro and psychological clinic operating in a patient-friendly environment. I wanted a CBT based yet relaxed and pioneering environment for my clients to promote the emotional, mental, spiritual, relational and academic/professional well-being without feeling stigmatized. My focus has been and will continue to be in responsiveness, structure, uniqueness and innovation and research. Please reach out with any questions via email to Support at EvienceBasedConsultation.com Website: www.EvidenceBasedConsultation.com
Anxiety, depression, self esteem, ADHD, pain and weight management, and eating DOs are some areas of my expertise.
In 2007, I started a small, quality and evidence based therapeutic, neuro and psychological clinic operating in a patient-friendly environment. I wanted a CBT based yet relaxed and pioneering environment for my clients to promote the emotional, mental, spiritual, relational and academic/professional well-being without feeling stigmatized. My focus has been and will continue to be in responsiveness, structure, uniqueness and innovation and research. Please reach out with any questions via email to Support at EvienceBasedConsultation.com Website: www.EvidenceBasedConsultation.com
(571) 999-7201 View (571) 999-7201
Photo of Seth Rumbley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Seth Rumbley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakton, VA 22124
I have experience working with individuals experiencing grief and loss, effects of traumatic brain injury, ADHD, anger management and emotional regulation issues, anxiety, and depression.
Do you find yourself feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or anxious? Is your child experiencing behavioral issues? Everyone needs additional support from time to time to deal with life's challenges. I view clients as experts of their own experiences and take a collaborative approach to counseling. Working together, we can develop the tools and insights needed to achieve your therapeutic goals. In addition to this person-centered approach, I utilize solutions-focused, acceptance and commitment (ACT), cognitive behavioral (CBT), and dialectical behavioral (DBT) therapeutic modalities and mindfulness tools based on clients' needs.
I have experience working with individuals experiencing grief and loss, effects of traumatic brain injury, ADHD, anger management and emotional regulation issues, anxiety, and depression.
Do you find yourself feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or anxious? Is your child experiencing behavioral issues? Everyone needs additional support from time to time to deal with life's challenges. I view clients as experts of their own experiences and take a collaborative approach to counseling. Working together, we can develop the tools and insights needed to achieve your therapeutic goals. In addition to this person-centered approach, I utilize solutions-focused, acceptance and commitment (ACT), cognitive behavioral (CBT), and dialectical behavioral (DBT) therapeutic modalities and mindfulness tools based on clients' needs.
(571) 444-8871 x14 View (571) 444-8871 x14
Photo of Alison C Smith, PhD, Psychologist
Alison C Smith
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakton, VA 22124  (Online Only)
, depression, anxiety, phobias), clarifying interpersonal/ communication problems, measuring intelligence for academic placement, assessing learning disabilities and/or Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist whose services include psychotherapy, psychological assessment, and consultation. I work to help clients with a wide range of difficulties including depression, anxiety, bereavement, relationship problems, and coping with trauma, as well as with transgender and/or sexual orientation issues. I particularly specialize in helping gay and lesbian individuals coping with childhood sexual abuse. I do individual therapy, providing practical ways to approach life's most difficult challenges. I work with clients in a collaborative relationship, with both of us working together to help you understand yourself and your problems more clearly.
, depression, anxiety, phobias), clarifying interpersonal/ communication problems, measuring intelligence for academic placement, assessing learning disabilities and/or Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist whose services include psychotherapy, psychological assessment, and consultation. I work to help clients with a wide range of difficulties including depression, anxiety, bereavement, relationship problems, and coping with trauma, as well as with transgender and/or sexual orientation issues. I particularly specialize in helping gay and lesbian individuals coping with childhood sexual abuse. I do individual therapy, providing practical ways to approach life's most difficult challenges. I work with clients in a collaborative relationship, with both of us working together to help you understand yourself and your problems more clearly.
(703) 407-9181 View (703) 407-9181
Photo of Kelly Theis, PhD, Psychologist
Kelly Theis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakton, VA 22124
I provide therapy to individuals of all ages who are experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, parenting stress, or a recent life change/loss.
Every family struggles at one point or another, and it can be difficult to find someone you trust to care for your family's well-being. FamilyFirst Psychological Services is an established practice of licensed clinical psychologists who have expertise in providing therapy and psychological testing services to children, teens, and adults. I personally specialize in helping children, adolescents, and families feel better, get along better, and function better at home, school, work, and in the community. I am dedicated to working closely and collaboratively with you so that you can reach your treatment goals as soon as possible.
I provide therapy to individuals of all ages who are experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, parenting stress, or a recent life change/loss.
Every family struggles at one point or another, and it can be difficult to find someone you trust to care for your family's well-being. FamilyFirst Psychological Services is an established practice of licensed clinical psychologists who have expertise in providing therapy and psychological testing services to children, teens, and adults. I personally specialize in helping children, adolescents, and families feel better, get along better, and function better at home, school, work, and in the community. I am dedicated to working closely and collaboratively with you so that you can reach your treatment goals as soon as possible.
(703) 957-7102 View (703) 957-7102
Photo of Emily Claus, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Emily Claus
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakton, VA 22124
I am a license eligible clinical psychologist who specializes in working with children, adolescents and adults. I'm trained in play and individual therapy for issues ranging from anxiety and mood disorders to ADHD, autism spectrum and other behavioral disorders. Some of specialties include psychological trauma (sexual/physical abuse, neglect) and LGBT issues. I also conducts psychological evaluations and assessments to help develop a more clear mental health diagnosis. I earned my doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from Nova Southeastern University and completed her clinical internship at Pennsylvania Counseling Services.
I am a license eligible clinical psychologist who specializes in working with children, adolescents and adults. I'm trained in play and individual therapy for issues ranging from anxiety and mood disorders to ADHD, autism spectrum and other behavioral disorders. Some of specialties include psychological trauma (sexual/physical abuse, neglect) and LGBT issues. I also conducts psychological evaluations and assessments to help develop a more clear mental health diagnosis. I earned my doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from Nova Southeastern University and completed her clinical internship at Pennsylvania Counseling Services.
(703) 639-4155 View (703) 639-4155
Photo of Intakeindia Walsh - Simply Mindful Solutions, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Simply Mindful Solutions, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vienna, VA 22124
At Simply Mindful Solutions, we believe in the importance of a strong therapeutic relationship. When someone chooses to walk in the door to begin their healing journey, it’s an honor that their trust has been placed in us to begin that journey with them. Our combined experience includes working with clients on a variety of issues to include domestic violence, trauma, anxiety, childhood abuse/neglect, sexual abuse, ADHD, Autism, foster care/adoption and depression.
At Simply Mindful Solutions, we believe in the importance of a strong therapeutic relationship. When someone chooses to walk in the door to begin their healing journey, it’s an honor that their trust has been placed in us to begin that journey with them. Our combined experience includes working with clients on a variety of issues to include domestic violence, trauma, anxiety, childhood abuse/neglect, sexual abuse, ADHD, Autism, foster care/adoption and depression.
(571) 339-3119 View (571) 339-3119
Photo of Tawanda Turner Brown, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tawanda Turner Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakton, VA 22124
I have over 35 years providing counseling. My work has included individual, child and adolescent treatment as well as family/couples counseling. I specialize in providing support in the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and marital discord. Additionally, I have had the honor of providing support to military and Foreign Service Officers', federal government workers and their families. I provide supportive counseling to a clients with a diverse cultural background. The time is now to begin your emotional healing and to renew your Hope for Today and the Future.
I have over 35 years providing counseling. My work has included individual, child and adolescent treatment as well as family/couples counseling. I specialize in providing support in the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and marital discord. Additionally, I have had the honor of providing support to military and Foreign Service Officers', federal government workers and their families. I provide supportive counseling to a clients with a diverse cultural background. The time is now to begin your emotional healing and to renew your Hope for Today and the Future.
(571) 200-9872 View (571) 200-9872
Photo of Spencer Byrnes, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Spencer Byrnes
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakton, VA 22124
I work with a variety of children, adolescents, and families with mental health diagnoses and personal struggles including anxiety, depression, self-harm, trauma, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, interpersonal conflict, and behavioral concerns. I believe that one of the most important aspects of therapy is collaboration. With that in mind, I work with my clients and their families to develop an individualized treatment plan based on respect and compassion to help guide them throughout their journey of self-discovery.
I work with a variety of children, adolescents, and families with mental health diagnoses and personal struggles including anxiety, depression, self-harm, trauma, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, interpersonal conflict, and behavioral concerns. I believe that one of the most important aspects of therapy is collaboration. With that in mind, I work with my clients and their families to develop an individualized treatment plan based on respect and compassion to help guide them throughout their journey of self-discovery.
(703) 440-7353 View (703) 440-7353
Photo of Jennifer Watts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Watts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Oakton, VA 22124  (Online Only)
My specialties include the treatment of anxiety, trauma, emotional regulation, and ADHD.
Finding balance in the lives we lead is essential to leading healthy lives. Sometimes in the everyday stress of daily life, it's difficult to find that balance. As a therapist, I work with clients to help them find the best treatment plan for their individual problems. In my experience, a collaborative approach works best for most treatment plans. My approach utilizes mostly Narrative therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution-focused therapy, with a Trauma centered approach, and most of the treatment plans I collaborate with include psychosocial education and some lifestyle changes.
My specialties include the treatment of anxiety, trauma, emotional regulation, and ADHD.
Finding balance in the lives we lead is essential to leading healthy lives. Sometimes in the everyday stress of daily life, it's difficult to find that balance. As a therapist, I work with clients to help them find the best treatment plan for their individual problems. In my experience, a collaborative approach works best for most treatment plans. My approach utilizes mostly Narrative therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution-focused therapy, with a Trauma centered approach, and most of the treatment plans I collaborate with include psychosocial education and some lifestyle changes.
(540) 787-2497 View (540) 787-2497
Photo of Irene Ilachinski, MSW, LCSW, TIRF-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Irene Ilachinski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, TIRF-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakton, VA 22124
Are you a 30+ woman who is twice exceptional (intelligent and ADHD), feeling overwhelmed? Is it even harder because your parents are accomplished people, and you feel like you can't keep up with expectations? You are hardworking and others count on you. But there are days when it feels like it takes all you have just to get dressed and out the door. Your brain either supercharged or foggy, and you can't often predict which it will be. So you sometimes feel like an Impostor who is just "pulling it off". You had trauma, recently or in the past, which doesn't help. You are ready for change, but you need to be understood.
Are you a 30+ woman who is twice exceptional (intelligent and ADHD), feeling overwhelmed? Is it even harder because your parents are accomplished people, and you feel like you can't keep up with expectations? You are hardworking and others count on you. But there are days when it feels like it takes all you have just to get dressed and out the door. Your brain either supercharged or foggy, and you can't often predict which it will be. So you sometimes feel like an Impostor who is just "pulling it off". You had trauma, recently or in the past, which doesn't help. You are ready for change, but you need to be understood.
(571) 596-6170 View (571) 596-6170
Photo of Mary Guckert Psychologist, PhD
Mary Guckert Psychologist
PhD
Verified Verified
Oakton, VA 22124
Are you feeling stuck and having a hard time getting back on track? Maybe you are someone with big goals and dreams, but you're having a hard time executing a plan and designing accountability to reach your full potential. I specialize in life and executive skills coaching that helps you be the best version of you. I design coaching to help you develop self-awareness of obstacles that get in the way and act as a non-biased sounding board to help you address how to overcome them. As your coach, I am your accountability partner, holding you accountable to stay on track with the action plans you design to reach your life goals.
Are you feeling stuck and having a hard time getting back on track? Maybe you are someone with big goals and dreams, but you're having a hard time executing a plan and designing accountability to reach your full potential. I specialize in life and executive skills coaching that helps you be the best version of you. I design coaching to help you develop self-awareness of obstacles that get in the way and act as a non-biased sounding board to help you address how to overcome them. As your coach, I am your accountability partner, holding you accountable to stay on track with the action plans you design to reach your life goals.
(703) 343-9066 View (703) 343-9066
Photo of Alison Morogiello, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alison Morogiello
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakton, VA 22124
When struggling with anxious thoughts, a difficult past, or any other mental health challenges, it can be overwhelming to begin the journey of therapy. Luckily, the most difficult step toward change is the first one. Once dedicated to the process, we can work together to achieve your personalized goals toward wellness, and positive change in your life. I hope to meet you soon!
When struggling with anxious thoughts, a difficult past, or any other mental health challenges, it can be overwhelming to begin the journey of therapy. Luckily, the most difficult step toward change is the first one. Once dedicated to the process, we can work together to achieve your personalized goals toward wellness, and positive change in your life. I hope to meet you soon!
(703) 755-8200 View (703) 755-8200
Photo of Christopher Haley - Social Skills Groups, PsyD, Psychologist
Social Skills Groups
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakton, VA 22124
We are excited to offer both in-person and online social skills training using both individual and group formats for clients of all ages. For those living in Northern Virginia, please visit PsychLife.net for our in-person services in Oakton, Woodbridge, and Fredericksburg. If you are interested in our online social skills coaching program, visit SocialSkillsCenter.com. For over 20 years we have taught social skills to 1,000’s of children, adolescents, and adults using our innovative “Peer Process Social Skills” model.
We are excited to offer both in-person and online social skills training using both individual and group formats for clients of all ages. For those living in Northern Virginia, please visit PsychLife.net for our in-person services in Oakton, Woodbridge, and Fredericksburg. If you are interested in our online social skills coaching program, visit SocialSkillsCenter.com. For over 20 years we have taught social skills to 1,000’s of children, adolescents, and adults using our innovative “Peer Process Social Skills” model.
(703) 634-4785 x1 View (703) 634-4785 x1
Photo of Debra Tievsky, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debra Tievsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakton, VA 22124  (Online Only)
I am a clinical social worker who has practiced in Virginia since 1987. I work with individuals, families, and couples to provide help coping with the stresses of everyday life as well as crisis situations. I have a lot of experience in treating anxiety and depression, using a cognitive-behavioral approach. Helping adult clients deal with past trauma is also one of my specialties. I currently am solely a teletherapy practice. If you have any questions about my practice, please feel free to contact me.
I am a clinical social worker who has practiced in Virginia since 1987. I work with individuals, families, and couples to provide help coping with the stresses of everyday life as well as crisis situations. I have a lot of experience in treating anxiety and depression, using a cognitive-behavioral approach. Helping adult clients deal with past trauma is also one of my specialties. I currently am solely a teletherapy practice. If you have any questions about my practice, please feel free to contact me.
(703) 831-6331 View (703) 831-6331
Photo of Stefania Gheorghiu - Northern Virginia Couples Counseling, LLC, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Northern Virginia Couples Counseling, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Oakton, VA 22124
Waitlist for new clients
My name is Stefania Gheorghiu, I run a hybrid practice providing both virtual appointments (week days only) and in-person sessions at my Reston office on Saturdays. My clients are self-motivated individuals and couples who are ready to take action in repairing past hurts, heal their emotional wounds, and overcome challenges they face in their current environment. I aim to empower my clients through acceptance, understanding, empathy, and challenge as we work together to navigate new ways of moving through life in order to achieve your goals.
My name is Stefania Gheorghiu, I run a hybrid practice providing both virtual appointments (week days only) and in-person sessions at my Reston office on Saturdays. My clients are self-motivated individuals and couples who are ready to take action in repairing past hurts, heal their emotional wounds, and overcome challenges they face in their current environment. I aim to empower my clients through acceptance, understanding, empathy, and challenge as we work together to navigate new ways of moving through life in order to achieve your goals.
(540) 787-3740 View (540) 787-3740
Photo of Intake Coordinator Fairfax location - The Center for Connection, Healing & Change, LLC, LMFT, LPC, LCSW, LMFT-R, LPC-R, Marriage & Family Therapist
The Center for Connection, Healing & Change, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, LCSW, LMFT-R, LPC-R
Verified Verified
Oakton, VA 22124
Accepting new clients - The Center for Connection, Healing & Change focuses on the creation of secure, close, and satisfying relationships- within us and between us. We choose to specialize in relationships because we know the importance of satisfying connections for our mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Services explore the relationship we have with both ourselves and others; how well we can live with emotional ease, know who we are, ask for what we need, be responsive to loved ones, set boundaries, deal with loss, move through stressful experiences, find our purpose, and access resilience in moments of need.
Accepting new clients - The Center for Connection, Healing & Change focuses on the creation of secure, close, and satisfying relationships- within us and between us. We choose to specialize in relationships because we know the importance of satisfying connections for our mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Services explore the relationship we have with both ourselves and others; how well we can live with emotional ease, know who we are, ask for what we need, be responsive to loved ones, set boundaries, deal with loss, move through stressful experiences, find our purpose, and access resilience in moments of need.
(571) 777-0640 View (571) 777-0640
Photo of Megan Elizabeth Fellows, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Elizabeth Fellows
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakton, VA 22124
As a Licensed Professional Counselor with over years experience in the mental health field, I thoroughly enjoy my role in helping others to reach their goals. I have worked with individuals, families, and groups in both inpatient and outpatient settings within the DC Metro area. Specifically, I have experience with adults, adolescents, and children presenting with a variety of concerns and needs. I have also had the privilege of serving individuals with intellectual disabilities and developmental delays in both private, in-home, and educational settings.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor with over years experience in the mental health field, I thoroughly enjoy my role in helping others to reach their goals. I have worked with individuals, families, and groups in both inpatient and outpatient settings within the DC Metro area. Specifically, I have experience with adults, adolescents, and children presenting with a variety of concerns and needs. I have also had the privilege of serving individuals with intellectual disabilities and developmental delays in both private, in-home, and educational settings.
(571) 374-1726 View (571) 374-1726
Photo of Joan Marie Nelson, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joan Marie Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Oakton, VA 22124
My ideal clients are those seeking quality treatment. I utilize my 25 years of experience as a trauma therapist to serve emotionally disabled children and their families, troubled teens, and individuals/couples challenged by chronic relationship issues. In addition, I have extensive experience working with veterans and others suffering from Traumatic Brain Injury.
My ideal clients are those seeking quality treatment. I utilize my 25 years of experience as a trauma therapist to serve emotionally disabled children and their families, troubled teens, and individuals/couples challenged by chronic relationship issues. In addition, I have extensive experience working with veterans and others suffering from Traumatic Brain Injury.
(571) 568-7379 View (571) 568-7379
1
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.