ADHD Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Amethyst Maxey in Chicago, IL
Amethyst Maxey
APRN, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60631  (Online Only)
Specialties include: ADHD, Insomnia, Depression, Psychiatry, Anxiety, Trauma and PTSD.
I have been practicing as a Nurse Practitioner for the last 3 years. Prior to obtaining my Master’s degree, I worked as a Registered Nurse for 10 years in several different settings. My approach to service and treatment is always patient centered. I’m a huge advocate for patient’s rights and encourage my patient’s to be involved in their own medical decisions. I strive on developing strong relationships with my patients and being the most compassionate, empathetic and nonjudgmental person so they can feel comfortable talking to me and opening up about their health concerns.
Specialties include: ADHD, Insomnia, Depression, Psychiatry, Anxiety, Trauma and PTSD.
I have been practicing as a Nurse Practitioner for the last 3 years. Prior to obtaining my Master’s degree, I worked as a Registered Nurse for 10 years in several different settings. My approach to service and treatment is always patient centered. I’m a huge advocate for patient’s rights and encourage my patient’s to be involved in their own medical decisions. I strive on developing strong relationships with my patients and being the most compassionate, empathetic and nonjudgmental person so they can feel comfortable talking to me and opening up about their health concerns.
(847) 380-8698 View (847) 380-8698
Photo of Naomi Cohen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Naomi Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60607
I treat ADHD, anxiety/OCD, depression, mood disorders, and have experience working with individuals and families.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, with a background working with both adolescent and adult populations in treatment settings. My approach to therapy is collaborative and strengths based.
I treat ADHD, anxiety/OCD, depression, mood disorders, and have experience working with individuals and families.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, with a background working with both adolescent and adult populations in treatment settings. My approach to therapy is collaborative and strengths based.
(872) 228-2408 View (872) 228-2408
Photo of Hannah Clague, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Hannah Clague
Pre-Licensed Professional, AM, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
I feel deeply privileged to work with young adults and adults who have experienced trauma, people with ADHD, and clients who experience anxiety and depression.
At some point nearly all of my clients tell me that they feel stuck. For some, this stuckness may mean not living a life that is as joyful or meaningful as they would like or feeling like they are falling short of who they want to be. Feeling stuck may lead to engaging in destructive habits like misusing substances, binge watching Netflix when you should be working or sleeping to avoid. Many of my clients have a history of trauma and have been living in survival mode for years. I am passionate about helping my clients get "unstuck" and helping them move forward in a meaningful direction.
I feel deeply privileged to work with young adults and adults who have experienced trauma, people with ADHD, and clients who experience anxiety and depression.
At some point nearly all of my clients tell me that they feel stuck. For some, this stuckness may mean not living a life that is as joyful or meaningful as they would like or feeling like they are falling short of who they want to be. Feeling stuck may lead to engaging in destructive habits like misusing substances, binge watching Netflix when you should be working or sleeping to avoid. Many of my clients have a history of trauma and have been living in survival mode for years. I am passionate about helping my clients get "unstuck" and helping them move forward in a meaningful direction.
(312) 854-7518 View (312) 854-7518
Photo of Anna Tornquist, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Anna Tornquist
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
If this description sounds familiar, I’d love to help you and/or your loved one explore Autistic and ADHD traits and patterns to gain a fuller understanding of your experiences and of the impacts these traits can have on relationships, work, and life in general.
Do you or a loved one experience and express emotions differently from others? Hyper-focus on interests in a way that allows for a state of ‘flow,’ but pulls from responsibilities and loved ones? Take in more sensory information than others and sometimes get overloaded by it? Has anyone ever suggested that you or your loved one might be Autistic or an ADHDer? While there are many strengths to neurodivergence, there can be difficulties due to living a world that is not designed for or accommodating of different neurotypes. It can also be difficult to know how best to support our loved ones who are Autistic or ADHDers.
If this description sounds familiar, I’d love to help you and/or your loved one explore Autistic and ADHD traits and patterns to gain a fuller understanding of your experiences and of the impacts these traits can have on relationships, work, and life in general.
Do you or a loved one experience and express emotions differently from others? Hyper-focus on interests in a way that allows for a state of ‘flow,’ but pulls from responsibilities and loved ones? Take in more sensory information than others and sometimes get overloaded by it? Has anyone ever suggested that you or your loved one might be Autistic or an ADHDer? While there are many strengths to neurodivergence, there can be difficulties due to living a world that is not designed for or accommodating of different neurotypes. It can also be difficult to know how best to support our loved ones who are Autistic or ADHDers.
(872) 245-0589 View (872) 245-0589
Photo of Daniel E Healy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Daniel E Healy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PLLC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60645  (Online Only)
If something in your life is not going the way you want it to go, therapy can help to reduce stress, improve relationships, and offer new ways of understanding your previous and current circumstances. If you or someone close to you is experiencing symptoms of Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, anxiety, depression, difficulty with relationships, or general dissatisfaction, I am here to help.
If something in your life is not going the way you want it to go, therapy can help to reduce stress, improve relationships, and offer new ways of understanding your previous and current circumstances. If you or someone close to you is experiencing symptoms of Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, anxiety, depression, difficulty with relationships, or general dissatisfaction, I am here to help.
(872) 266-9276 View (872) 266-9276
Photo of Hollie Sobel, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Hollie Sobel
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
She has expertise in the areas ADHD,anxiety, depression, autism, behavioral difficulties, and learning disorders.
Dr. Sobel received her doctorate in clinical psychology from the Illinois Institute of Technology, and completed a fellowship at the University of Chicago. Prior to launching PACT, she was a faculty member at the Family Institute at Northwestern University and Rush University Medical Center. She has specialization in conducting diagnostic, psychoeducational, and personality testing batteries to primarily children/adolescents with a variety of psychiatric and medical diagnoses. She also assists children and their families with school programming issues. Another area of clinical expertise is providing individual, family, and group psychotherapy. She has specialization in using researched-based cognitive-behavioral techniques
She has expertise in the areas ADHD,anxiety, depression, autism, behavioral difficulties, and learning disorders.
Dr. Sobel received her doctorate in clinical psychology from the Illinois Institute of Technology, and completed a fellowship at the University of Chicago. Prior to launching PACT, she was a faculty member at the Family Institute at Northwestern University and Rush University Medical Center. She has specialization in conducting diagnostic, psychoeducational, and personality testing batteries to primarily children/adolescents with a variety of psychiatric and medical diagnoses. She also assists children and their families with school programming issues. Another area of clinical expertise is providing individual, family, and group psychotherapy. She has specialization in using researched-based cognitive-behavioral techniques
(872) 244-6455 View (872) 244-6455
Photo of Christina Squiers, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Christina Squiers
Pre-Licensed Professional, JD, AM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
As a former lawyer turned therapist who has lived in 6 states, I'm no stranger to the winding path life takes us down, and I often connect with high stress business professionals struggling with the demands of the field and folks who are navigating career or other life changes. I’ve had success helping people who are struggling with executive functioning and who may need ADHD coaching. As a non-judgmental and queer therapist, I also feel especially equipped to help queer clients or clients looking to explore their sexuality in a safe space.
As a former lawyer turned therapist who has lived in 6 states, I'm no stranger to the winding path life takes us down, and I often connect with high stress business professionals struggling with the demands of the field and folks who are navigating career or other life changes. I’ve had success helping people who are struggling with executive functioning and who may need ADHD coaching. As a non-judgmental and queer therapist, I also feel especially equipped to help queer clients or clients looking to explore their sexuality in a safe space.
(312) 874-6034 View (312) 874-6034
Photo of Cristin McAuley, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Cristin McAuley
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
My niche specialties include working with women with a suspected or later-in-life diagnosis of ADHD, members of the legal community, those suffering with disenfranchised (unpopular/overlooked/invalidated) grief or who have experienced dating trauma.
Hi! Whether this is the 1st or the 50th profile you've viewed, I'm sending you the highest of high fives for seeking support while surviving all of THIS (picture me gesturing to the current state of the world). Adulting is hard and it’s made worse when we feel alone in the challenges we face. Once upon a time I was clicking through so many profiles and not even sure who or what I was looking for. Gratefully, that search led me down a path that completely changed me for the better and is the reason why you're reading this. Today I work hard to extend the same support and compassion to my clients that I received when I needed it most.
My niche specialties include working with women with a suspected or later-in-life diagnosis of ADHD, members of the legal community, those suffering with disenfranchised (unpopular/overlooked/invalidated) grief or who have experienced dating trauma.
Hi! Whether this is the 1st or the 50th profile you've viewed, I'm sending you the highest of high fives for seeking support while surviving all of THIS (picture me gesturing to the current state of the world). Adulting is hard and it’s made worse when we feel alone in the challenges we face. Once upon a time I was clicking through so many profiles and not even sure who or what I was looking for. Gratefully, that search led me down a path that completely changed me for the better and is the reason why you're reading this. Today I work hard to extend the same support and compassion to my clients that I received when I needed it most.
(847) 886-4130 View (847) 886-4130
Photo of Michele Reitsma, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Michele Reitsma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I currently see clients who are wanting to work through sexual trauma, sexual dysfunction, anxiety, ADHD/executive functioning challenges, Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs), and gender/sexual identity topics. I also work with clients in ethically non-monogamous relationship structures. I have experience working with folks in the kink community and am a sex-worker friendly clinician. I am a good fit for clients that appreciate structure, evidence-based approaches, and collaborative treatment plans that include homework/work outside of sessions.
I currently see clients who are wanting to work through sexual trauma, sexual dysfunction, anxiety, ADHD/executive functioning challenges, Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs), and gender/sexual identity topics. I also work with clients in ethically non-monogamous relationship structures. I have experience working with folks in the kink community and am a sex-worker friendly clinician. I am a good fit for clients that appreciate structure, evidence-based approaches, and collaborative treatment plans that include homework/work outside of sessions.
(773) 570-1425 View (773) 570-1425
Photo of LaDonna V Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
LaDonna V Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60620
I have experience working with adults with depression, ADHD, anxiety disorders, panic disorders, multicultural issues, and complex trauma.
Oftentimes, reaching out for help is a big step towards wellness and healing. Congratulations on taking that step! My name is LaDonna Miller and I am a clinical social worker in Chicago, Illinois. I have over 9 years working in the mental health field and would love to work alongside you to accomplish your goals!
I have experience working with adults with depression, ADHD, anxiety disorders, panic disorders, multicultural issues, and complex trauma.
Oftentimes, reaching out for help is a big step towards wellness and healing. Congratulations on taking that step! My name is LaDonna Miller and I am a clinical social worker in Chicago, Illinois. I have over 9 years working in the mental health field and would love to work alongside you to accomplish your goals!
(773) 923-1095 View (773) 923-1095
Photo of Dr. Margaret Gallagher in Chicago, IL
Dr. Margaret Gallagher
PhD, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
Additionally, I have experience in managing ADHD symptoms, and I've observed remarkable improvements in client focus, concentration, and work performance, which have had a positive impact on their personal and professional lives.
Hi, I'm Margaret, a nurse practitioner. I have been successfully managing depression and anxiety symptoms for several years, achieving positive outcomes and improving clients' lives.
Additionally, I have experience in managing ADHD symptoms, and I've observed remarkable improvements in client focus, concentration, and work performance, which have had a positive impact on their personal and professional lives.
Hi, I'm Margaret, a nurse practitioner. I have been successfully managing depression and anxiety symptoms for several years, achieving positive outcomes and improving clients' lives.
(815) 368-5381 View (815) 368-5381
Photo of Jordan Wakefield, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Jordan Wakefield
Counselor, LCPC, LPC, NCC, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60607  (Online Only)
I help women struggling with anxiety and ADHD gain confidence and identify ways to support their neurodiverse brains in a neurotypical society. People diagnosed with ADHD are likely to experience additional challenges with anxiety, depression, and disordered eating habits; this combination can make functioning day-to-day feel like a constant uphill battle.
I help women struggling with anxiety and ADHD gain confidence and identify ways to support their neurodiverse brains in a neurotypical society. People diagnosed with ADHD are likely to experience additional challenges with anxiety, depression, and disordered eating habits; this combination can make functioning day-to-day feel like a constant uphill battle.
(312) 818-2394 View (312) 818-2394
Photo of Rebecca Symmes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Rebecca Symmes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
My specialties include anxiety, sex therapy, career counseling, ADHD/neurodivergence, and women's issues.
As human beings we know life has a way of creating challenges we may find difficult to face on our own. I firmly believe each of us possess fundamental inner-strengths that can not only help us cope with these challenges, but flourish and thrive together. My goal as a therapist is to come alongside clients in a compassionate nonjudgmental stance to help identify your strengths and how to translate them into meaningful growth both within yourself and in your relationships. I value using a mind/body approach and a warm, relational atmosphere in therapy. I am LGBTQIA+-affirming, sex-positive, kink and poly-friendly.
My specialties include anxiety, sex therapy, career counseling, ADHD/neurodivergence, and women's issues.
As human beings we know life has a way of creating challenges we may find difficult to face on our own. I firmly believe each of us possess fundamental inner-strengths that can not only help us cope with these challenges, but flourish and thrive together. My goal as a therapist is to come alongside clients in a compassionate nonjudgmental stance to help identify your strengths and how to translate them into meaningful growth both within yourself and in your relationships. I value using a mind/body approach and a warm, relational atmosphere in therapy. I am LGBTQIA+-affirming, sex-positive, kink and poly-friendly.
(872) 713-6917 View (872) 713-6917
Photo of Kat Kline, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Kat Kline
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CRSS, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I'm a well-rounded clinician who has specialized education in workplace issues, complex trauma, ADHD, co-occurring disorders, cognition, & aging.
Do you feel frustrated because you keep engaging in communication and behavior patterns that no longer serve you, or align with your values? Do you struggle with irritability, worry, poor focus, or memory problems? Do you find yourself experiencing problems with relationships, work, school, or life changes? If you're interested in learning new skills to manage stress/symptoms while effectively pursuing your goals, I might be able to help. Let's find ways you can thrive, not just survive.
I'm a well-rounded clinician who has specialized education in workplace issues, complex trauma, ADHD, co-occurring disorders, cognition, & aging.
Do you feel frustrated because you keep engaging in communication and behavior patterns that no longer serve you, or align with your values? Do you struggle with irritability, worry, poor focus, or memory problems? Do you find yourself experiencing problems with relationships, work, school, or life changes? If you're interested in learning new skills to manage stress/symptoms while effectively pursuing your goals, I might be able to help. Let's find ways you can thrive, not just survive.
(872) 204-1636 View (872) 204-1636
Photo of Jessie M. Duncan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Jessie M. Duncan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
As a therapist I help clients who are struggling to find their way in the world at any stage in life. This can be a life transition, trauma, grief, medical condition, anxiety, depression, ADHD, family, or relationship issues. All these factors, and more, affect us in different ways that can lead to feelings of isolation as we struggle to reconnect with ourselves. Each person's journey through healing is different and I utilize different tools and therapeutic approaches based on these unique needs.
As a therapist I help clients who are struggling to find their way in the world at any stage in life. This can be a life transition, trauma, grief, medical condition, anxiety, depression, ADHD, family, or relationship issues. All these factors, and more, affect us in different ways that can lead to feelings of isolation as we struggle to reconnect with ourselves. Each person's journey through healing is different and I utilize different tools and therapeutic approaches based on these unique needs.
(773) 207-4238 View (773) 207-4238
Photo of Ruri (Nuri) Kim, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Ruri (Nuri) Kim
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LSW, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My clinical approach is authentic and integrative, resulting in a collaborative treatment plan based on client’s culture and values, the best available clinical research, and clinical expertise for my clients to thrive in their lives. I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults in individual, family and group settings. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Executive Functioning (EF) skills, complex trauma/PTSD, bipolar disorder, depression, racial/cultural identities, academic performance, family conflicts, relationship issues, grief, life transitions, stress and other life concerns. I also speak Korean.
My clinical approach is authentic and integrative, resulting in a collaborative treatment plan based on client’s culture and values, the best available clinical research, and clinical expertise for my clients to thrive in their lives. I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults in individual, family and group settings. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Executive Functioning (EF) skills, complex trauma/PTSD, bipolar disorder, depression, racial/cultural identities, academic performance, family conflicts, relationship issues, grief, life transitions, stress and other life concerns. I also speak Korean.
(312) 376-4293 View (312) 376-4293
Photo of Larry Maucieri, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Larry Maucieri
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP-CN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611
Adult ADHD, traumatic brain injuries, and neuropsychological assessment are my specialties.
I'm a board-certified clinical neuropsychologist who helps individuals mainly impacted by ADHD and concussion/TBI. I offer individual therapy for ADHD (ages 18+) and neuropsychological assessments for ADHD, TBI, and other neurologic conditions (ages 14+). Therapeutically, I use cognitive behavioral therapy, assertiveness training, and motivational interviewing (MI) methods within the context of an empathic and cohesive therapeutic relationship. NOTE: Therapy openings are more limited than are assessment. I'm licensed in IL, NY, and can offer telehealth sessions to clients in Psypact-participating states.
Adult ADHD, traumatic brain injuries, and neuropsychological assessment are my specialties.
I'm a board-certified clinical neuropsychologist who helps individuals mainly impacted by ADHD and concussion/TBI. I offer individual therapy for ADHD (ages 18+) and neuropsychological assessments for ADHD, TBI, and other neurologic conditions (ages 14+). Therapeutically, I use cognitive behavioral therapy, assertiveness training, and motivational interviewing (MI) methods within the context of an empathic and cohesive therapeutic relationship. NOTE: Therapy openings are more limited than are assessment. I'm licensed in IL, NY, and can offer telehealth sessions to clients in Psypact-participating states.
(773) 245-0509 View (773) 245-0509
Photo of Jennifer Marie Spitler, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Jennifer Marie Spitler
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60608  (Online Only)
My focus is helping neurodiverse people, especially ADHD adults.
It is all too often we miss out on life as it unfolds, in the present moment. Our thoughts, feelings, and memories often leave us distracted, reactive, and approaching life as though it were a series of problems to be solved. In truth, some of us struggle with presence and reactivity more than others. Neurodiverse folks frequently struggle to regulate strong emotions, maintain healthy relationships, and manage activities of daily living.
My focus is helping neurodiverse people, especially ADHD adults.
It is all too often we miss out on life as it unfolds, in the present moment. Our thoughts, feelings, and memories often leave us distracted, reactive, and approaching life as though it were a series of problems to be solved. In truth, some of us struggle with presence and reactivity more than others. Neurodiverse folks frequently struggle to regulate strong emotions, maintain healthy relationships, and manage activities of daily living.
(312) 906-7042 View (312) 906-7042
Photo of Kenneth Stratton, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Kenneth Stratton
Counselor, LCPC, CRC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60603  (Online Only)
I have specialized training in Physical/Mental rehabilitation(TBI, Significant limb loss, Activities of Daily Living, Job replacement/development, etc), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, Mindfulness therapy, Couples therapy, Sex Therapy(Including sexual identity practices), Trauma based therapy, Grief counseling, and ADHD approaches.
I WANT TO HELP YOU REACH YOUR HIGHEST QUALITY OF LIFE POSSIBLE! Everyone has struggles in life, I'll meet you in that struggle and equip you with internal tools to help you become THE BEST YOU! I want to help you live your best life! My focus is to meet you where you're comfortable - in our partnership I will provide a safe space for you to express yourself freely without judgement while increasing your ability to unburden, and forgive yourself. Our therapeutic encounters will facilitate opportunities for you to offer yourself self-compassion, empathy, and grow your self-awareness en-route to accomplishing your goals.
I have specialized training in Physical/Mental rehabilitation(TBI, Significant limb loss, Activities of Daily Living, Job replacement/development, etc), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, Mindfulness therapy, Couples therapy, Sex Therapy(Including sexual identity practices), Trauma based therapy, Grief counseling, and ADHD approaches.
I WANT TO HELP YOU REACH YOUR HIGHEST QUALITY OF LIFE POSSIBLE! Everyone has struggles in life, I'll meet you in that struggle and equip you with internal tools to help you become THE BEST YOU! I want to help you live your best life! My focus is to meet you where you're comfortable - in our partnership I will provide a safe space for you to express yourself freely without judgement while increasing your ability to unburden, and forgive yourself. Our therapeutic encounters will facilitate opportunities for you to offer yourself self-compassion, empathy, and grow your self-awareness en-route to accomplishing your goals.
(773) 207-1814 View (773) 207-1814
Photo of Nahime Guadalupe Aguirre Mtanous, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Nahime Guadalupe Aguirre Mtanous
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LSW, ASDCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
My work focuses on supporting the mental health of adults with various presentations of neurodiversity, like Autism, ADHD, Obsessive Compulsive, Traumatic Brain Injuries, Down's Syndrome, Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities. You might be looking for someone to help you work on "adulting." You may be dealing with the stress of becoming independent. You want to work through the anxiety and depression from living in a world that isn't built for people like us. We can work together on to figure out your values. You and I will create goals towards finding your own happiness and feeling powerful.
My work focuses on supporting the mental health of adults with various presentations of neurodiversity, like Autism, ADHD, Obsessive Compulsive, Traumatic Brain Injuries, Down's Syndrome, Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities. You might be looking for someone to help you work on "adulting." You may be dealing with the stress of becoming independent. You want to work through the anxiety and depression from living in a world that isn't built for people like us. We can work together on to figure out your values. You and I will create goals towards finding your own happiness and feeling powerful.
(872) 240-5805 View (872) 240-5805
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.