ADHD Therapists in California

Photo of Robert C Black, Psychologist in California
Robert C Black
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jackson, CA 95642  (Online Only)
I am trained in treating trauma in children and adolescents, Functional Family Therapy, Aggression Replacement Training (anger management), anxiety treatment, ADHD assessment and treatment for children, and parenting skills.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who lives in Northern California. I began working with children struggling with mental health challenges, first as direct care staff at a residential treatment facility and then in a more clinical role in a Therapeutic Behavioral Services department. My doctoral program and completion of my Ph.D. in clinical psychology included an internship at large community-based mental health clinic serving children in Sacramento County. I completed my post doctoral training in Kaiser’s children and adolescent psychiatry department where I still work as a psychologist.
I am trained in treating trauma in children and adolescents, Functional Family Therapy, Aggression Replacement Training (anger management), anxiety treatment, ADHD assessment and treatment for children, and parenting skills.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who lives in Northern California. I began working with children struggling with mental health challenges, first as direct care staff at a residential treatment facility and then in a more clinical role in a Therapeutic Behavioral Services department. My doctoral program and completion of my Ph.D. in clinical psychology included an internship at large community-based mental health clinic serving children in Sacramento County. I completed my post doctoral training in Kaiser’s children and adolescent psychiatry department where I still work as a psychologist.
(209) 563-8231 View (209) 563-8231
Photo of Cecilia (Ceci) Walken, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Cecilia (Ceci) Walken
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104  (Online Only)
Are you Neurodivergent or wonder if you might be? Do your challenges with focus make getting treatment tricky? You are not alone. Many people I work with have struggled for years to get treatment - or even a diagnosis. I offer Neurodivergent affirming therapy (ADHD, AuDHD) and group therapy. Are you group curious? If yes, I look forward to connecting with you. I currently offer weekly support groups to adults in California. I also offer climate anxiety support - individual and group. Groups meet both online and in person and serve people in California.
Are you Neurodivergent or wonder if you might be? Do your challenges with focus make getting treatment tricky? You are not alone. Many people I work with have struggled for years to get treatment - or even a diagnosis. I offer Neurodivergent affirming therapy (ADHD, AuDHD) and group therapy. Are you group curious? If yes, I look forward to connecting with you. I currently offer weekly support groups to adults in California. I also offer climate anxiety support - individual and group. Groups meet both online and in person and serve people in California.
(415) 650-2886 View (415) 650-2886
Photo of Donica Dohrenwend, Psychologist in California
Donica Dohrenwend
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92121
Dr. Donica Dohrenwend, PhD and her team at Psychology 360, specialize in assessments and evaluations to help clarify diagnoses and identify the best supports and interventions for children, adolescents, and adults. Evaluations can assist with diagnosing ADHD, Learning Disorders (Dyslexia/Dyscalculia), Autism Spectrum Disorder, Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders etc). Psychology 360 also offers brief individual therapy, parent consultation, medication management and brain scans.
Dr. Donica Dohrenwend, PhD and her team at Psychology 360, specialize in assessments and evaluations to help clarify diagnoses and identify the best supports and interventions for children, adolescents, and adults. Evaluations can assist with diagnosing ADHD, Learning Disorders (Dyslexia/Dyscalculia), Autism Spectrum Disorder, Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders etc). Psychology 360 also offers brief individual therapy, parent consultation, medication management and brain scans.
(858) 461-6631 View (858) 461-6631
Photo of Arnold Acquah, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in California
Arnold Acquah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010
My name is Arnold Acquah, MSW, LCSW. My goals as a therapist are to help my clients recognize their capacity for self-sufficiency and self-advocacy, ultimately helping them recognize the power that they wield. My areas of focus include working with adults struggling with ADHD, depression, and anxiety. My job is to help you navigate through the complexities of life so that we can understand the underlying factors that contribute to your current struggles. This understanding may pave the way for us to work towards decreasing the distress you may be experiencing.
My name is Arnold Acquah, MSW, LCSW. My goals as a therapist are to help my clients recognize their capacity for self-sufficiency and self-advocacy, ultimately helping them recognize the power that they wield. My areas of focus include working with adults struggling with ADHD, depression, and anxiety. My job is to help you navigate through the complexities of life so that we can understand the underlying factors that contribute to your current struggles. This understanding may pave the way for us to work towards decreasing the distress you may be experiencing.
(650) 610-2687 View (650) 610-2687
Photo of Natalie Yeschin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in California
Natalie Yeschin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCS
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
I am currently in practice, focusing on assessment and interventions for Attention Deficit – Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder and Mood related disorders.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Post Master's Certificate in Advanced Clinical Social Work Practice. I have worked in private practice for the past 18 years, specializing in Structured Assessments and ongoing Individual, Couples and Family Therapy with individuals and families who sustain a variety of neurological and learning challenges.
I am currently in practice, focusing on assessment and interventions for Attention Deficit – Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder and Mood related disorders.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Post Master's Certificate in Advanced Clinical Social Work Practice. I have worked in private practice for the past 18 years, specializing in Structured Assessments and ongoing Individual, Couples and Family Therapy with individuals and families who sustain a variety of neurological and learning challenges.
(805) 608-3514 View (805) 608-3514
Photo of Carolyn Garrison, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in California
Carolyn Garrison
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94403  (Online Only)
Supporting children, teens, adults, & parents to overcome various adversities, heal to obtain healthy development & maturation, and ultimately reach full potential. Specialties are trauma, depression, anxiety, stress management, life transitions, women's issues, self-esteem/awareness, ADHD, secondary effects of learning differences/disabilities, multi ethnicities/cultures, and spirituality. Support is holistic and integrative, incorporating Brainspotting (BSP), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Humanistic/Existential Therapy, & Play/Expressive Art Therapy, while utilizing innate strengths. Helping you to heal, grow, and thrive.
Supporting children, teens, adults, & parents to overcome various adversities, heal to obtain healthy development & maturation, and ultimately reach full potential. Specialties are trauma, depression, anxiety, stress management, life transitions, women's issues, self-esteem/awareness, ADHD, secondary effects of learning differences/disabilities, multi ethnicities/cultures, and spirituality. Support is holistic and integrative, incorporating Brainspotting (BSP), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Humanistic/Existential Therapy, & Play/Expressive Art Therapy, while utilizing innate strengths. Helping you to heal, grow, and thrive.
(650) 445-4935 View (650) 445-4935
Photo of Carla Keith, Pre-Licensed Professional in California
Carla Keith
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Dimas, CA 91773
I have a unique combination of professional and personal experience for people who need guidance walking through anxiety, depression, spiritual abuse recovery, codependency, trauma, low self-esteem, ADHD, grief and loss, life transitions, and adoption.
I am passionate about helping people find their own unique fingerprints God has created them with. Throughout life, we develop and collect negative messages about ourselves that get in the way of us walking in true freedom. My purpose is to help people uncover the hidden beliefs that keep them feeling stuck in life and overcome barriers that prevent them from experiencing thriving relationships.
I have a unique combination of professional and personal experience for people who need guidance walking through anxiety, depression, spiritual abuse recovery, codependency, trauma, low self-esteem, ADHD, grief and loss, life transitions, and adoption.
I am passionate about helping people find their own unique fingerprints God has created them with. Throughout life, we develop and collect negative messages about ourselves that get in the way of us walking in true freedom. My purpose is to help people uncover the hidden beliefs that keep them feeling stuck in life and overcome barriers that prevent them from experiencing thriving relationships.
(626) 594-5525 View (626) 594-5525
Photo of Kat Zwick, Counselor in California
Kat Zwick
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LCPC, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95062  (Online Only)
Availability for new full fee clients in Spring 2024! I provide ADHD solutions-focused therapy to gender expansive, queer, and neurodivergent adult clients. This work is skills-based, fun, sometimes hilarious, compassionate, non-judgmental and meant to help clients reach their goals with executive functioning, distress tolerance, behavior change, task completion, short-term blocks or hurdles, and long-term planning, organization, and emotion regulation. I also offer short-term DBT 'tune-up' individual therapy for those who already have DBT skills training and are seeking some short-term assistance with a particular challenge.
Availability for new full fee clients in Spring 2024! I provide ADHD solutions-focused therapy to gender expansive, queer, and neurodivergent adult clients. This work is skills-based, fun, sometimes hilarious, compassionate, non-judgmental and meant to help clients reach their goals with executive functioning, distress tolerance, behavior change, task completion, short-term blocks or hurdles, and long-term planning, organization, and emotion regulation. I also offer short-term DBT 'tune-up' individual therapy for those who already have DBT skills training and are seeking some short-term assistance with a particular challenge.
(831) 740-8296 View (831) 740-8296
Photo of Gregory R Tompkins, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Gregory R Tompkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94903
I have over ten years experience working with clients in their teens or twenties who have: attachment issues; ADHD, Anxiety, and Depression. They suffer relational trauma for a variety of reasons, such as: emotional abuse and neglect; physical or sexual abuse; and sexual assault. I help my clients resolve past trauma; heal attachment wounds; replace unhealthy habits with healthy ones; and to progress towards their life goals. This results in them having healthier and more satisfying relationships; a greater sense of connection and belonging; and higher functioning in every day life.
I have over ten years experience working with clients in their teens or twenties who have: attachment issues; ADHD, Anxiety, and Depression. They suffer relational trauma for a variety of reasons, such as: emotional abuse and neglect; physical or sexual abuse; and sexual assault. I help my clients resolve past trauma; heal attachment wounds; replace unhealthy habits with healthy ones; and to progress towards their life goals. This results in them having healthier and more satisfying relationships; a greater sense of connection and belonging; and higher functioning in every day life.
(415) 818-9493 View (415) 818-9493
Photo of Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, Psychologist in California
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
(424) 232-0955 View (424) 232-0955
Photo of Dr. Crawford and Associates Psychological Services, Psychologist in California
Dr. Crawford and Associates Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Ontario, CA 91764
Hello and welcome to my page. We offer individual therapy for a variety of issues (Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri) and assessment testing (Tue, Wed, Thur, Sat) for clients ages 3 and up, which includes psychological, neuropsychological, ADHD, Autism Spectrum, learning disability, mood, career, neurocognitive (after TBI/consussion, stroke, etc.) assessments. As an FYI, actual assessment testing is always done in-person, while intakes and individual/couple therapy can can be completed in person, via telephone or Telehealth. UPDATE - I have resigned from Anthem, Molina and Blue Shield/Magellan insurances. I apologize for the inconvenience.
Hello and welcome to my page. We offer individual therapy for a variety of issues (Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri) and assessment testing (Tue, Wed, Thur, Sat) for clients ages 3 and up, which includes psychological, neuropsychological, ADHD, Autism Spectrum, learning disability, mood, career, neurocognitive (after TBI/consussion, stroke, etc.) assessments. As an FYI, actual assessment testing is always done in-person, while intakes and individual/couple therapy can can be completed in person, via telephone or Telehealth. UPDATE - I have resigned from Anthem, Molina and Blue Shield/Magellan insurances. I apologize for the inconvenience.
(909) 235-7428 View (909) 235-7428
Photo of Navneet Kaur, PhD, LPCC, Counselor in California
Navneet Kaur, PhD, LPCC
Counselor, PhD, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elk Grove, CA 95757
I specialize in Sex Therapy, ADHD, and Trauma.
Do you feel wound up all the time, like there's more things to get done than there is time in the day? Do you feel unsupported by a partner or family member, leading to resentment and frustration in your relationship? Maybe you've lost yourself or someone you love because of a traumatic event. And maybe, you think you have ADHD and don't know how to get diagnosed so you can learn the skills you need to be in control again. You don't have to deal with everything you're going through alone. Let's work together to help you untangle that tight knot in your chest, feel lighter, more in control, and ultimately happier in your life.
I specialize in Sex Therapy, ADHD, and Trauma.
Do you feel wound up all the time, like there's more things to get done than there is time in the day? Do you feel unsupported by a partner or family member, leading to resentment and frustration in your relationship? Maybe you've lost yourself or someone you love because of a traumatic event. And maybe, you think you have ADHD and don't know how to get diagnosed so you can learn the skills you need to be in control again. You don't have to deal with everything you're going through alone. Let's work together to help you untangle that tight knot in your chest, feel lighter, more in control, and ultimately happier in your life.
(916) 794-9911 View (916) 794-9911
Photo of Jonathon David Baird, Psychologist in California
Jonathon David Baird
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fresno, CA 93711
I specialize formal psychological assessments that include autism, ADHD, ADD, and other forms of academic assessment.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist. I am committed to helping individuals learn how to enhance and improve their mental health. My work focuses on targeting ineffective behaviors, habit, thoughts, and beliefs that are negatively impacting day to day functioning. I believe in taking a collaborative approach to helping clients reach their goals. I am passionate about providing assessments, treatments, and creating resources for individuals struggling with an array of mental health needs. If you would like to schedule a consultation with me, please send an email, appointment request, or text. I look forward to hearing from you.
I specialize formal psychological assessments that include autism, ADHD, ADD, and other forms of academic assessment.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist. I am committed to helping individuals learn how to enhance and improve their mental health. My work focuses on targeting ineffective behaviors, habit, thoughts, and beliefs that are negatively impacting day to day functioning. I believe in taking a collaborative approach to helping clients reach their goals. I am passionate about providing assessments, treatments, and creating resources for individuals struggling with an array of mental health needs. If you would like to schedule a consultation with me, please send an email, appointment request, or text. I look forward to hearing from you.
(559) 242-4335 View (559) 242-4335
Photo of Dr. Kalea Chapman, Psychologist in California
Dr. Kalea Chapman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90027  (Online Only)
With ADHD, first, I assess any existing diagnosis, and then we come up with a plan that addresses the challenges that typically occur with organization and planning, distractibility, environment, thinking, emotional regulation, and resilience.
I really enjoy working with young adults. Most young people are capable of tremendous growth, despite their current state, developmental hurdle, trauma, or identity issues. I have been working specifically with students in their twenties for over 10 years.
With ADHD, first, I assess any existing diagnosis, and then we come up with a plan that addresses the challenges that typically occur with organization and planning, distractibility, environment, thinking, emotional regulation, and resilience.
I really enjoy working with young adults. Most young people are capable of tremendous growth, despite their current state, developmental hurdle, trauma, or identity issues. I have been working specifically with students in their twenties for over 10 years.
(818) 651-0295 View (818) 651-0295
Photo of HealthPro Pediatrics, Psychologist in California
HealthPro Pediatrics
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92128
Now offering both diagnostic and therapy services to children and adolescents, HealthPRO Pediatrics has added mental health to its list of therapeutic offerings. Specializing in the neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, learning disabilities, anxiety, behavioral concerns and parent training, the team at HealthPRO can help provide support to families in need. Kathie Sweeten, Psy.D., BCBA-D is a licensed clinical psychologist and Board Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral level with over 30 years of experience in the field of childhood mental health.
Now offering both diagnostic and therapy services to children and adolescents, HealthPRO Pediatrics has added mental health to its list of therapeutic offerings. Specializing in the neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, learning disabilities, anxiety, behavioral concerns and parent training, the team at HealthPRO can help provide support to families in need. Kathie Sweeten, Psy.D., BCBA-D is a licensed clinical psychologist and Board Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral level with over 30 years of experience in the field of childhood mental health.
(858) 758-9563 View (858) 758-9563
Photo of Amy Tsou, Psychologist in California
Amy Tsou
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025
Do you have a brilliant yet unfocused child? Do you worry about your child's self-esteem? Are you interested in non-medication options for ADHD? If your child is struggling with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Anxiety, Stress-Related Disorders or Depression, I can help. By performing a careful and thorough evaluation, I will work with you and your child to develop an effective plan for living happily with less school stress.
Do you have a brilliant yet unfocused child? Do you worry about your child's self-esteem? Are you interested in non-medication options for ADHD? If your child is struggling with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Anxiety, Stress-Related Disorders or Depression, I can help. By performing a careful and thorough evaluation, I will work with you and your child to develop an effective plan for living happily with less school stress.
(650) 779-5771 View (650) 779-5771
Photo of Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, Psychologist in California
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
(805) 243-1375 View (805) 243-1375
Photo of Alisha R. Garr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in California
Alisha R. Garr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Eagle Rock, CA 90041
I have experience treating clients experiencing trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, panic, relationship issues, stage of life issues, and ADHD among other challenges.
My greatest reward as a therapist is supporting my clients to explore ways to make the changes in their lives that will allow them to look forward to the future with hope. I believe that all individuals hold the key to their own happiness and possess the power to change their lives for the better.
I have experience treating clients experiencing trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, panic, relationship issues, stage of life issues, and ADHD among other challenges.
My greatest reward as a therapist is supporting my clients to explore ways to make the changes in their lives that will allow them to look forward to the future with hope. I believe that all individuals hold the key to their own happiness and possess the power to change their lives for the better.
(818) 616-6184 View (818) 616-6184
Photo of Christiana Silva, Psychologist in California
Christiana Silva
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101
Areas of specialization include ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, ODD, OCD, Trauma/Abuse.
Dr. Silva is the Chief Behavior Health Officer for San Diego based mental healthcare provider Fusion Care Group. Fusion Care Group is changing the way people think about and receive mental health service and support. We offer a welcoming and accepting environment where you can feel calm and comfortable while in our care. Our relaxed, modern atmosphere and our amazing, highly trained Psychologists, Psychiatrists and therapists are here for you. Our hope is to provide a place to help our clients achieve their life goals, explore life-circumstances, move through difficult life transitions.
Areas of specialization include ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, ODD, OCD, Trauma/Abuse.
Dr. Silva is the Chief Behavior Health Officer for San Diego based mental healthcare provider Fusion Care Group. Fusion Care Group is changing the way people think about and receive mental health service and support. We offer a welcoming and accepting environment where you can feel calm and comfortable while in our care. Our relaxed, modern atmosphere and our amazing, highly trained Psychologists, Psychiatrists and therapists are here for you. Our hope is to provide a place to help our clients achieve their life goals, explore life-circumstances, move through difficult life transitions.
(619) 916-4099 View (619) 916-4099
Photo of Dr. Bill Ekemo / Northup Group, Psychologist in California
Dr. Bill Ekemo / Northup Group
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Auburn, CA 95603
These include general psychiatric conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, traumatic brain injury, dementia or posttraumatic stress disorder.
Dr. Ekemo recently relocated his practice to Auburn, CA from Bellevue Washington. He has been providing psychological services for over 20 years mainly to public safety agencies (pre-employment screening, fitness for duty, critical incident debriefings, job coaching and management consultations). He also specializes in individual Neuropsychological evaluations (brain injuries, dementia etc.) and Risk Management consultations to private sector organizations and HR departments. If you are an employer or school concerned about violence in your work setting; training programs and workshops are available for your staff.
These include general psychiatric conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, traumatic brain injury, dementia or posttraumatic stress disorder.
Dr. Ekemo recently relocated his practice to Auburn, CA from Bellevue Washington. He has been providing psychological services for over 20 years mainly to public safety agencies (pre-employment screening, fitness for duty, critical incident debriefings, job coaching and management consultations). He also specializes in individual Neuropsychological evaluations (brain injuries, dementia etc.) and Risk Management consultations to private sector organizations and HR departments. If you are an employer or school concerned about violence in your work setting; training programs and workshops are available for your staff.
(425) 336-1364 View (425) 336-1364

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.