ADHD Therapists in Ankeny, IA

Photo of Mary Kate Leister, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Kate Leister
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
My social work practice has been centered around working with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and crisis.
“The willingness to show up changes us. It makes us a little braver each time.” –Brené Brown Hi! I’m Mary Kate. I am a Master’s level social worker in central Iowa. I have 8 years of experience working with children, teens, and young adults. On my journey as a social worker, I have gained a deep understanding of Iowa’s mental health system, community resources in the DSM Metro and surrounding areas, and special education services. In addition to providing therapy, I currently work as a school social worker.
My social work practice has been centered around working with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and crisis.
“The willingness to show up changes us. It makes us a little braver each time.” –Brené Brown Hi! I’m Mary Kate. I am a Master’s level social worker in central Iowa. I have 8 years of experience working with children, teens, and young adults. On my journey as a social worker, I have gained a deep understanding of Iowa’s mental health system, community resources in the DSM Metro and surrounding areas, and special education services. In addition to providing therapy, I currently work as a school social worker.
(515) 325-5801 View (515) 325-5801
Photo of Shannon Haus, MSEd, LMHC, ADHD-PT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Haus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSEd, LMHC, ADHD-PT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
I support clients in cultivating acceptance of difficult experiences such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, or chronic pain, and guide them in embracing these experiences while moving forward with their lives.
As a trauma-informed therapist utilizing EMDR, ACT, Ego State/ IFS and CBT, I support clients struggling with ADHD, trauma, anxiety, depression, procrastination, indecision, and moving forward during transitional stages of life, including high school, college, graduate school, sports, retirement, and more. I have expertise with trauma and ADHD in people ranging in age from 15-70. Extensive experience working with college students.
I support clients in cultivating acceptance of difficult experiences such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, or chronic pain, and guide them in embracing these experiences while moving forward with their lives.
As a trauma-informed therapist utilizing EMDR, ACT, Ego State/ IFS and CBT, I support clients struggling with ADHD, trauma, anxiety, depression, procrastination, indecision, and moving forward during transitional stages of life, including high school, college, graduate school, sports, retirement, and more. I have expertise with trauma and ADHD in people ranging in age from 15-70. Extensive experience working with college students.
(515) 454-2202 View (515) 454-2202
Photo of Anne Lolwing, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anne Lolwing
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
I work with ages 13+ within an individual, couple and/or family setting to empower self-growth, healing, improvement of relationships and the reduction of emotional suffering while addressing areas of concern including: ADHD, anxiety, depression, relationships, life transitions, self-esteem, grief and loss, and stress management.
Accepting new clients. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who works with individuals, couples and families who are struggling to manage life circumstances. I provide a non-judgmental, safe and supportive environment that offers guidance to help meet your goals through open and honest conversation.
I work with ages 13+ within an individual, couple and/or family setting to empower self-growth, healing, improvement of relationships and the reduction of emotional suffering while addressing areas of concern including: ADHD, anxiety, depression, relationships, life transitions, self-esteem, grief and loss, and stress management.
Accepting new clients. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who works with individuals, couples and families who are struggling to manage life circumstances. I provide a non-judgmental, safe and supportive environment that offers guidance to help meet your goals through open and honest conversation.
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Photo of Bradley A Chamberlain - BCCounseling, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
BCCounseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Ankeny, IA 50023  (Online Only)
I also have ADHD and can understand what neurodivergent individuals go through on a daily basis.
I work with individuals in NE, TX, CO, NH, VA and IA (fully licensed in those states) with ADHD, OCD, Trauma, anxiety and sexual concerns such as men's issues, porn addiction and polyamory. My treatment modalities focus on the individual and it's not a cookie cutter approach, incorporating modalities of CBT, Mindfulness, Stages of Change, Trauma Informed Therapy and Solution Focus therapy. I use podcasts, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok videos, books and more as supplements as well. My patients are eager to improve their lives, but often stuck as to where to start or where to begin. I accept telehealth through GROW therapy & Headway.
I also have ADHD and can understand what neurodivergent individuals go through on a daily basis.
I work with individuals in NE, TX, CO, NH, VA and IA (fully licensed in those states) with ADHD, OCD, Trauma, anxiety and sexual concerns such as men's issues, porn addiction and polyamory. My treatment modalities focus on the individual and it's not a cookie cutter approach, incorporating modalities of CBT, Mindfulness, Stages of Change, Trauma Informed Therapy and Solution Focus therapy. I use podcasts, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok videos, books and more as supplements as well. My patients are eager to improve their lives, but often stuck as to where to start or where to begin. I accept telehealth through GROW therapy & Headway.
(515) 219-4974 View (515) 219-4974
Photo of Melissa Lohmann, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Melissa Lohmann
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
My professional experience includes working with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of concerns including symptoms associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism, relationship distress, self-harm, domestic violence and much more. With over 15 years of mental health experience my empathetic, client-centered approach empowers my clients to feel heard and understood through the therapeutic relationship.
My professional experience includes working with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of concerns including symptoms associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism, relationship distress, self-harm, domestic violence and much more. With over 15 years of mental health experience my empathetic, client-centered approach empowers my clients to feel heard and understood through the therapeutic relationship.
(515) 949-4409 View (515) 949-4409
Photo of Hallie Evans, t-LMHC, Counselor
Hallie Evans
Counselor, t-LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
My interests areas include interests include Autism spectrum disorder, Anxiety and depression, and ADHD.
I currently work with children and adolescents who are struggling with symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, depression, mood dysregulation, anger, and trauma. In a typical session, we may work on grounding and mindfulness techniques as well as coping skills. We also may explore your child's emotions through play or talk therapy. I primarily use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), and child-centered theories. I also use play therapy modalities as well as sand tray therapy.
My interests areas include interests include Autism spectrum disorder, Anxiety and depression, and ADHD.
I currently work with children and adolescents who are struggling with symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, depression, mood dysregulation, anger, and trauma. In a typical session, we may work on grounding and mindfulness techniques as well as coping skills. We also may explore your child's emotions through play or talk therapy. I primarily use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), and child-centered theories. I also use play therapy modalities as well as sand tray therapy.
(515) 320-8561 View (515) 320-8561
Jeremy Overbaugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Ankeny, IA 50021
Jeremy Overbaugh values and enjoys working with children, adolescents, and families who are responding to a broad range of problems and concerns in their lives and relationships. He offers a relaxed, non-judgmental approach to therapy, with the goal of providing collaborative and effective treatment to the individuals he works with. Jeremy's primary areas of clinic focus include: ADHD, anxiety, OCD, depression, anger/behavioral issues, PTSD/trauma, ASD, family conflict/separation/divorce issues and school difficulties. Jeremy offers individual adult and couples therapy, as well.
Jeremy Overbaugh values and enjoys working with children, adolescents, and families who are responding to a broad range of problems and concerns in their lives and relationships. He offers a relaxed, non-judgmental approach to therapy, with the goal of providing collaborative and effective treatment to the individuals he works with. Jeremy's primary areas of clinic focus include: ADHD, anxiety, OCD, depression, anger/behavioral issues, PTSD/trauma, ASD, family conflict/separation/divorce issues and school difficulties. Jeremy offers individual adult and couples therapy, as well.
(515) 519-3473 View (515) 519-3473
Photo of Laurie Fein - Women's Counseling Center, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Women's Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Ankeny, IA 50023
While I specialize in abuse, sexual harassment, chemical and other dependencies, adhd and trauma, my primary focus is you and what you bring to the session.
Do you need someone to talk to about your family, job, or relationships? Are you struggling with loss, abuse or harassment in the recent or distant past? Do you feel misunderstood or question your identity or direction in life? Do you feel like life has handed you some lemons? If this sounds like you, I offer confidential mental health counseling for individuals, couples and families in a private 1857 farmhouse set on a nature sanctuary. I strive to provide a safe space for survivors, LGBTQ, and people from diverse racial, ethnic religious and spiritual backgrounds. Naturally, diversity is celebrated here.
While I specialize in abuse, sexual harassment, chemical and other dependencies, adhd and trauma, my primary focus is you and what you bring to the session.
Do you need someone to talk to about your family, job, or relationships? Are you struggling with loss, abuse or harassment in the recent or distant past? Do you feel misunderstood or question your identity or direction in life? Do you feel like life has handed you some lemons? If this sounds like you, I offer confidential mental health counseling for individuals, couples and families in a private 1857 farmhouse set on a nature sanctuary. I strive to provide a safe space for survivors, LGBTQ, and people from diverse racial, ethnic religious and spiritual backgrounds. Naturally, diversity is celebrated here.
(515) 422-4003 View (515) 422-4003
Photo of Amber Flinn, LMSW
Amber Flinn
LMSW
Verified Verified
Ankeny, IA 50023
I also have a special interest working with individuals experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), attention deficit hyperactive disorder ( ADHD,) or grief.
I believe connection and relationship are cornerstones of successful therapy. I support an environment of warmth and openness because growth happens at the speed of trust. We will work collaboratively to identify and address your needs and desires. I seek to empower clients through validation, skill building, and values exploration. During therapy, I utilize acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and motivational interviewing.
I also have a special interest working with individuals experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), attention deficit hyperactive disorder ( ADHD,) or grief.
I believe connection and relationship are cornerstones of successful therapy. I support an environment of warmth and openness because growth happens at the speed of trust. We will work collaboratively to identify and address your needs and desires. I seek to empower clients through validation, skill building, and values exploration. During therapy, I utilize acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and motivational interviewing.
(515) 501-5751 View (515) 501-5751
Photo of Laurie Fein - Fein Therapy Services, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Fein Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Ankeny, IA 50023
While I specialize in anxiety, trauma, ADHD, diversity, relationships, climate psychology, social justice and addictions, my primary focus is you and what you bring with you to the sessions.
Do you need someone to talk to about your family, job, climate change, social justice or relationships? Are you struggling with loss, abuse or harassment in the recent or distant past? Do you feel misunderstood or question your identity or direction in life? Do you feel like life has handed you some lemons? If this sounds like you, I offer confidential mental health counseling for individuals, couples and families in a private 1857 farmhouse set on a nature sanctuary. I strive to provide a safe space for survivors, and people from diverse racial, gender ethnic religious and spiritual backgrounds. Diversity is celebrated here.
While I specialize in anxiety, trauma, ADHD, diversity, relationships, climate psychology, social justice and addictions, my primary focus is you and what you bring with you to the sessions.
Do you need someone to talk to about your family, job, climate change, social justice or relationships? Are you struggling with loss, abuse or harassment in the recent or distant past? Do you feel misunderstood or question your identity or direction in life? Do you feel like life has handed you some lemons? If this sounds like you, I offer confidential mental health counseling for individuals, couples and families in a private 1857 farmhouse set on a nature sanctuary. I strive to provide a safe space for survivors, and people from diverse racial, gender ethnic religious and spiritual backgrounds. Diversity is celebrated here.
(515) 964-1733 View (515) 964-1733
Photo of Darla Krom, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Darla Krom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
Dar is a Licensed Independent Social Worker (MSW, LISW) who graduated from the University of North Dakota. Dar has over 30 years experience working in social services, with 10+ years providing psychotherapy. They have experience working with adolescents, and adults struggling with serious mental illness, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma. They are experienced in treating mood disorders, complex relational issues, coping with chronic medical diagnosis’ such as HIV, and concerns specific to the LGBTQ+ community.
Dar is a Licensed Independent Social Worker (MSW, LISW) who graduated from the University of North Dakota. Dar has over 30 years experience working in social services, with 10+ years providing psychotherapy. They have experience working with adolescents, and adults struggling with serious mental illness, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma. They are experienced in treating mood disorders, complex relational issues, coping with chronic medical diagnosis’ such as HIV, and concerns specific to the LGBTQ+ community.
(515) 992-7858 View (515) 992-7858
Photo of Ian Neff, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ian Neff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
I serve clients ages 12+ facing a number of different issues including depression, anxiety, autism, ADHD, mental health disorders, trauma, grief, neurodivergence, and LGBTQ+ issues.
Having been raised in Ankeny, I am excited to serve clients at Nurturing Therapy Services in my hometown! Throughout our lives, many of us run into internal and external problems that cause us to experience thoughts, feelings, or sensations that leave us feeling stuck and unable to move forward. I utilize a range of techniques that help to identify and process these distressing thoughts, feelings, and sensations. My approach to therapy moves away from simple talk therapy and focuses on involved techniques and collaborative exercises that aim to address the root causes of common issues such as depression, anxiety, and hopelessness.
I serve clients ages 12+ facing a number of different issues including depression, anxiety, autism, ADHD, mental health disorders, trauma, grief, neurodivergence, and LGBTQ+ issues.
Having been raised in Ankeny, I am excited to serve clients at Nurturing Therapy Services in my hometown! Throughout our lives, many of us run into internal and external problems that cause us to experience thoughts, feelings, or sensations that leave us feeling stuck and unable to move forward. I utilize a range of techniques that help to identify and process these distressing thoughts, feelings, and sensations. My approach to therapy moves away from simple talk therapy and focuses on involved techniques and collaborative exercises that aim to address the root causes of common issues such as depression, anxiety, and hopelessness.
(515) 206-8982 View (515) 206-8982
Adriane Sankey Tiedens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
Life has many paths, situations, and experiences. I am happy to help, listen, and work through the journey you have been on. I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker with over 23 years of experience. I provide individual, couples, and family therapy for all ages and use a strength-based approach. I think it's important to highlight and emphasize a person's strengths throughout the therapeutic process in order to promote growth and change. I use this approach within a variety of therapeutic modalities. I work with indivduals experiencing a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, autistim, eating issues to name a few.
Life has many paths, situations, and experiences. I am happy to help, listen, and work through the journey you have been on. I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker with over 23 years of experience. I provide individual, couples, and family therapy for all ages and use a strength-based approach. I think it's important to highlight and emphasize a person's strengths throughout the therapeutic process in order to promote growth and change. I use this approach within a variety of therapeutic modalities. I work with indivduals experiencing a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, autistim, eating issues to name a few.
(515) 717-8472 View (515) 717-8472
Photo of Jaclyn Leya, LISW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jaclyn Leya
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
I am a ADHD (CCSP) Certified Clinical Services Provider and a Certified Shame-Informed Treatment Specialist (CSTS).
My goal is to provide the necessary support to navigate the therapeutic and integrative process of 'working-through' both negative experiences from the past and present. In hopes to gain more freedom to choose the outcome for your future. I will provide you with a safe space for self-exploration, and a model for self-reflection to utilize in everyday life.
I am a ADHD (CCSP) Certified Clinical Services Provider and a Certified Shame-Informed Treatment Specialist (CSTS).
My goal is to provide the necessary support to navigate the therapeutic and integrative process of 'working-through' both negative experiences from the past and present. In hopes to gain more freedom to choose the outcome for your future. I will provide you with a safe space for self-exploration, and a model for self-reflection to utilize in everyday life.
(515) 531-5361 View (515) 531-5361
Photo of Angela Ruiz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela Ruiz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
Waitlist for new clients
Hi there! Life gives us many different experiences and from those experiences we become stronger and more knowledgeable. My experiences, personally and professionally, have made me competent in the areas of adoption, anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, ADHD, autism, grief, and life transitions. I work with all ages and find it a privilege to work with everyone, regardless of age, race, religion and sexual orientation.
Hi there! Life gives us many different experiences and from those experiences we become stronger and more knowledgeable. My experiences, personally and professionally, have made me competent in the areas of adoption, anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, ADHD, autism, grief, and life transitions. I work with all ages and find it a privilege to work with everyone, regardless of age, race, religion and sexual orientation.
(515) 516-3498 View (515) 516-3498
Photo of Courtney Clippert-Treadwell, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Courtney Clippert-Treadwell
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Ankeny, IA 50023
Also, I provide assessments for ADHD and learning disabilities.
It's an honor and privilege to work with clients during, what might be, some of their most difficult moments in life. I find it rewarding to hear each client's story, help clients embrace their strengths, recognize personal resiliency factors, and feel more empowered. My approach is collaborative and integrative. I strive to create an affirming environment and atmosphere of safety, trust, and acceptance. Also, it's essential for me to understand client's worldview and cultural identities. I believe that a safe, supportive, and caring therapeutic relationship is an integral part of the change process.
Also, I provide assessments for ADHD and learning disabilities.
It's an honor and privilege to work with clients during, what might be, some of their most difficult moments in life. I find it rewarding to hear each client's story, help clients embrace their strengths, recognize personal resiliency factors, and feel more empowered. My approach is collaborative and integrative. I strive to create an affirming environment and atmosphere of safety, trust, and acceptance. Also, it's essential for me to understand client's worldview and cultural identities. I believe that a safe, supportive, and caring therapeutic relationship is an integral part of the change process.
(515) 575-9482 View (515) 575-9482
Photo of William F Walker, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
William F Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50021
Are you looking for support to achieve the kind of life you envision? Maybe you are struggling to succeed in one of life's domains, including social, work, school, or family relationships. We would be honored to have an opportunity to work with you or your family member. The warm and supportive environment in our office helps clients feel comfortable working through personal challenges such as depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, family conflict, ADHD (adult and children), job stress, and other life stressors.
Are you looking for support to achieve the kind of life you envision? Maybe you are struggling to succeed in one of life's domains, including social, work, school, or family relationships. We would be honored to have an opportunity to work with you or your family member. The warm and supportive environment in our office helps clients feel comfortable working through personal challenges such as depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, family conflict, ADHD (adult and children), job stress, and other life stressors.
(515) 599-3170 View (515) 599-3170
Photo of Nancy K Miller, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy K Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ankeny, IA 50021
I'm not like other therapists you may have been to. My dedication for helping others has been fueled by the adversity in my own life. I want my clients to be themselves in my space. I won't tell you what to do, but I'll walk with you while you figure out what the best route is to meet your goals for a healthy life. I enjoy working with young adults and adults who are motivated to find a solution to alleviate their depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and self-harming behaviors. I have experience working with BPD, pornography issues, infidelity and betrayal trauma, and general life transitions.
I'm not like other therapists you may have been to. My dedication for helping others has been fueled by the adversity in my own life. I want my clients to be themselves in my space. I won't tell you what to do, but I'll walk with you while you figure out what the best route is to meet your goals for a healthy life. I enjoy working with young adults and adults who are motivated to find a solution to alleviate their depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and self-harming behaviors. I have experience working with BPD, pornography issues, infidelity and betrayal trauma, and general life transitions.
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Photo of Amanda Khader, M Ed, Ed S, tLMHC, Psychologist
Amanda Khader
Psychologist, M Ed, Ed S, tLMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50015
Hello! My name is Amanda Khader. I am a Licensed School Psychologist in Iowa, and have taken additional graduate courses for my license in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. One service I offer is psychological assessment and diagnosing for ages birth to 22 for: Learning Disabilities, Behavior Disorders, ADHD, Autism and Anxiety/Depression. I also provide mental health counseling for individuals up to age 25, but I specialize in working with children with Autism and Behavior Disorders, clients with Anxiety and Depression, and clients dealing with stress, trauma, and/or eating disorders.
Hello! My name is Amanda Khader. I am a Licensed School Psychologist in Iowa, and have taken additional graduate courses for my license in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. One service I offer is psychological assessment and diagnosing for ages birth to 22 for: Learning Disabilities, Behavior Disorders, ADHD, Autism and Anxiety/Depression. I also provide mental health counseling for individuals up to age 25, but I specialize in working with children with Autism and Behavior Disorders, clients with Anxiety and Depression, and clients dealing with stress, trauma, and/or eating disorders.
(515) 373-7742 View (515) 373-7742
Photo of Amy Parker Reid, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Parker Reid
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ankeny, IA 50023
It also benefits those who struggle to communicate due to developmental delays, ADHD, ID, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Hi! I'm Amy Parker Reid. I am a master's level social worker in central Iowa with over 16 years of experience working with children, teens, and young adults. While on my journey I have gained a deep understanding of Iowa's mental health system, available resources in the DSM area, and special education services. As a former special education teacher and counselor, I have seen first-hand how difficult adjusting to new circumstances, routines, and relationships can bring about intense emotions and challenging behaviors. These stressors can often lead to a pattern of negative interactions and power struggles leaving parents frustrated.
It also benefits those who struggle to communicate due to developmental delays, ADHD, ID, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Hi! I'm Amy Parker Reid. I am a master's level social worker in central Iowa with over 16 years of experience working with children, teens, and young adults. While on my journey I have gained a deep understanding of Iowa's mental health system, available resources in the DSM area, and special education services. As a former special education teacher and counselor, I have seen first-hand how difficult adjusting to new circumstances, routines, and relationships can bring about intense emotions and challenging behaviors. These stressors can often lead to a pattern of negative interactions and power struggles leaving parents frustrated.
(515) 466-5989 View (515) 466-5989
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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.