Photo of Sunlight Therapy, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Sunlight Therapy, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27610  (Online Only)
If you’re looking for a therapist who believes in your resiliency and your ability to overcome barriers that prevent you from achieving your hopes and dreams, consider allowing me to work with you. Working with you from a solution focused and person-centered approach, you will learn strategies and skills that can assist you in moving past challenges that you're experiencing. I focus on working with children & adults who have ADHD, anxiety, depression and personality disorders. I also provide grief therapy, as well as play therapy for children & families. Let's talk to see if we're a good fit for you. Be well and thank you.
If you’re looking for a therapist who believes in your resiliency and your ability to overcome barriers that prevent you from achieving your hopes and dreams, consider allowing me to work with you. Working with you from a solution focused and person-centered approach, you will learn strategies and skills that can assist you in moving past challenges that you're experiencing. I focus on working with children & adults who have ADHD, anxiety, depression and personality disorders. I also provide grief therapy, as well as play therapy for children & families. Let's talk to see if we're a good fit for you. Be well and thank you.
(919) 568-5992 View (919) 568-5992
Photo of Kristin M Ryeson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Kristin M Ryeson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
My areas of specialty include anxiety, depression, ADHD, school concerns, adjustment to major life changes, parenting support, and family relationships.
Are you tired of anxiety, anger, sadness, shame, or guilt taking control of your life? Would you like to develop a better relationship with painful thoughts and emotions, and make lasting behavior changes that bring meaning and purpose in your life? If you are feeling overwhelmed with school, work, or parental demands, experiencing strain in peer or family relationships, you no longer find satisfaction in things you once enjoyed, or if over-thinking and worry are interfering with your ability to make decisions and achieve your goals, I am here to help!
My areas of specialty include anxiety, depression, ADHD, school concerns, adjustment to major life changes, parenting support, and family relationships.
Are you tired of anxiety, anger, sadness, shame, or guilt taking control of your life? Would you like to develop a better relationship with painful thoughts and emotions, and make lasting behavior changes that bring meaning and purpose in your life? If you are feeling overwhelmed with school, work, or parental demands, experiencing strain in peer or family relationships, you no longer find satisfaction in things you once enjoyed, or if over-thinking and worry are interfering with your ability to make decisions and achieve your goals, I am here to help!
(984) 305-3950 View (984) 305-3950
Photo of Hannah Morley, LCSW Associate in Raleigh, NC
Hannah Morley
LCSW Associate, MSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27617
My specialties include ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, Behavior Management, Stress, Depression, Self-Esteem, LGBTQIA+, and Relationships.
So, I'm a tall person - 6'2" to be exact. I know what you're thinking - "Do you play sports?" and "How's the weather up there?" Well, despite my stature, I lack any notable athletic abilities, but I do have some equestrian skills up my sleeve. As for the weather? That’s confidential information for tall people only! As a therapist, I pride myself on breaking free from traditional constraints and fostering a warm, inviting atmosphere, filled with laughter and a touch of quirkiness. My approach is rooted in authenticity, collaboration, and genuine human connection – because that's where the magic truly happens.
My specialties include ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, Behavior Management, Stress, Depression, Self-Esteem, LGBTQIA+, and Relationships.
So, I'm a tall person - 6'2" to be exact. I know what you're thinking - "Do you play sports?" and "How's the weather up there?" Well, despite my stature, I lack any notable athletic abilities, but I do have some equestrian skills up my sleeve. As for the weather? That’s confidential information for tall people only! As a therapist, I pride myself on breaking free from traditional constraints and fostering a warm, inviting atmosphere, filled with laughter and a touch of quirkiness. My approach is rooted in authenticity, collaboration, and genuine human connection – because that's where the magic truly happens.
(984) 985-3887 View (984) 985-3887
Photo of Pooja Ganatra, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Pooja Ganatra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-A, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27605
Are you wanting to enhance your mental well-being, foster self-awareness, improve relationships, and find fulfillment? Feeling overwhelmed or struggling? Needing a safe, non-judgmental space to explore yourself and develop coping skills? Want to feel happier, more in control? More in touch with your body? Move past reoccurring problems? I support clients of all ages and backgrounds to address various issues including depression, anxiety, stress, life transitions, trauma, ADHD, substance use, relationship conflicts, family conflicts, navigating multi-cultural issues, with particular experience with Asian and American cultures.
Are you wanting to enhance your mental well-being, foster self-awareness, improve relationships, and find fulfillment? Feeling overwhelmed or struggling? Needing a safe, non-judgmental space to explore yourself and develop coping skills? Want to feel happier, more in control? More in touch with your body? Move past reoccurring problems? I support clients of all ages and backgrounds to address various issues including depression, anxiety, stress, life transitions, trauma, ADHD, substance use, relationship conflicts, family conflicts, navigating multi-cultural issues, with particular experience with Asian and American cultures.
(919) 874-5443 View (919) 874-5443
Photo of Roger Heeren, Marriage & Family Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Roger Heeren
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, MDiv
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
My clinical interests are in marriage and family, anxiety & mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and ADHD.
Are you hurting or frustrated with where you are right now in your life? Are you ready for change? I am located in Raleigh, North Carolina. Currently I am offering in office sessions and Video therapy on the Zoom platform. I offer a safe, trusting, and supportive environment that enables individuals to develop the understanding and skills needed to make positive changes. Psychotherapy facilitates personal growth and learning in order to help individuals lead more fulfilling and enjoyable lives I work with all age groups from children to adults, marriage counseling and families.
My clinical interests are in marriage and family, anxiety & mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and ADHD.
Are you hurting or frustrated with where you are right now in your life? Are you ready for change? I am located in Raleigh, North Carolina. Currently I am offering in office sessions and Video therapy on the Zoom platform. I offer a safe, trusting, and supportive environment that enables individuals to develop the understanding and skills needed to make positive changes. Psychotherapy facilitates personal growth and learning in order to help individuals lead more fulfilling and enjoyable lives I work with all age groups from children to adults, marriage counseling and families.
(919) 736-6493 View (919) 736-6493
Photo of Andy Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Andy Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
My practice focuses on adolescents and adults who are seeking to collaborate on issues such as ADHD/executive functioning, self-harm, mood disorders/dysregulation, anxiety, and trauma.
While there are many reasons to seek therapy, often an underlying theme is that the strategies we have developed and relied on over time to deal with life's challenges are no longer working as effectively as might be needed. It is my belief, and has been my experience, that by understanding how we have adapted to the forces that shape our lives (both within and around us), and by changing the ways we relate to and experience these forces, we can create opportunities to strengthen valued skills or learn new ones, improve our ability to respond to and manage stress, and move with intention toward desired goals and outcomes.
My practice focuses on adolescents and adults who are seeking to collaborate on issues such as ADHD/executive functioning, self-harm, mood disorders/dysregulation, anxiety, and trauma.
While there are many reasons to seek therapy, often an underlying theme is that the strategies we have developed and relied on over time to deal with life's challenges are no longer working as effectively as might be needed. It is my belief, and has been my experience, that by understanding how we have adapted to the forces that shape our lives (both within and around us), and by changing the ways we relate to and experience these forces, we can create opportunities to strengthen valued skills or learn new ones, improve our ability to respond to and manage stress, and move with intention toward desired goals and outcomes.
(984) 217-2505 View (984) 217-2505
Photo of Emily Baggett, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Raleigh, NC
Emily Baggett
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27601
I treat ADHD/Neurodivergence, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Grief & Loss, Maternal Mental Health, Attachment & Trauma Disorders, Relationship Counseling, Self-Discipline & Behavior Management, Social Anxiety, Stress Reduction & Management, and Time & Task Management.
The stories of our lives have a tremendous impact on who we are as people, and how we feel. As a narrative-based therapist, it is my privilege to be invited to witness your story and be part of the change that you are seeking. With training in marriage and family therapy comes a unique understanding of how relational experiences, how you grow up, communities, and society as a whole can impact how each person interacts with and understands the world around them. I operate from a neurodivergent affirming and trauma-informed style, and seek to offer a compassionate and understanding atmosphere while inviting you to challenge yourself.
I treat ADHD/Neurodivergence, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Grief & Loss, Maternal Mental Health, Attachment & Trauma Disorders, Relationship Counseling, Self-Discipline & Behavior Management, Social Anxiety, Stress Reduction & Management, and Time & Task Management.
The stories of our lives have a tremendous impact on who we are as people, and how we feel. As a narrative-based therapist, it is my privilege to be invited to witness your story and be part of the change that you are seeking. With training in marriage and family therapy comes a unique understanding of how relational experiences, how you grow up, communities, and society as a whole can impact how each person interacts with and understands the world around them. I operate from a neurodivergent affirming and trauma-informed style, and seek to offer a compassionate and understanding atmosphere while inviting you to challenge yourself.
(984) 207-0931 View (984) 207-0931
Photo of Amanda Burrafato, Marriage & Family Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Amanda Burrafato
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCAS
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27617
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common developmental syndrome with impacts on day to day functioning and relating.
Amanda believes healing comes from the development of a safe environment both inside and out. She works with individuals and relationships to identify toxic patterns of behavior and create action plans to produce meaningful and lasting change for participants. Join a community of similar adults in targeting deficits in Executive Functioning (Motivation, Time Management, Organizing & Memory, Organizing Naturally) and Emotion Regulation (Selfcare, Emotions, Boundaries, Emotion Regulating, Healthy Relationships). Join for 1 or all 10 Classes 6:00- 8:00 In -Person/virtual Mondays Starting 4/1/24. Next round JUNE dates TBD
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common developmental syndrome with impacts on day to day functioning and relating.
Amanda believes healing comes from the development of a safe environment both inside and out. She works with individuals and relationships to identify toxic patterns of behavior and create action plans to produce meaningful and lasting change for participants. Join a community of similar adults in targeting deficits in Executive Functioning (Motivation, Time Management, Organizing & Memory, Organizing Naturally) and Emotion Regulation (Selfcare, Emotions, Boundaries, Emotion Regulating, Healthy Relationships). Join for 1 or all 10 Classes 6:00- 8:00 In -Person/virtual Mondays Starting 4/1/24. Next round JUNE dates TBD
(984) 214-8469 View (984) 214-8469
Photo of Patrick T. Hefferan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Patrick T. Hefferan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHCS, NCC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27613  (Online Only)
I am passionate about combining diverse resources and therapeutic tools in working with clients with Marriage and Family Issues, ADHD, Impulse Control (related to internet and video games), Depression,Anxiety,LGBT Issues, Stress Reduction, Grief, and Life Transitions.
My clients consider me to be an empathic listener, a keen observer, and a calming presence. I bring a warm smile, a curious, gentle, friendly manner, a ready laugh, and a healthy self into my therapy sessions every day. I sincerely care about the people I work with and work hard to create a warm and trusting environment for clients of all ages. Forming and nurturing relationships is my strength. It's within the context of a healthy relationship that emotional and mental healing occurs. I'm trained to facilitate treatment for internet and technology compulsions and addictions including gaming, online pornography, and related issues.
I am passionate about combining diverse resources and therapeutic tools in working with clients with Marriage and Family Issues, ADHD, Impulse Control (related to internet and video games), Depression,Anxiety,LGBT Issues, Stress Reduction, Grief, and Life Transitions.
My clients consider me to be an empathic listener, a keen observer, and a calming presence. I bring a warm smile, a curious, gentle, friendly manner, a ready laugh, and a healthy self into my therapy sessions every day. I sincerely care about the people I work with and work hard to create a warm and trusting environment for clients of all ages. Forming and nurturing relationships is my strength. It's within the context of a healthy relationship that emotional and mental healing occurs. I'm trained to facilitate treatment for internet and technology compulsions and addictions including gaming, online pornography, and related issues.
(919) 913-8323 View (919) 913-8323
Photo of Dawn Bowes, LCSW Associate in Raleigh, NC
Dawn Bowes
LCSW Associate, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607  (Online Only)
I enjoy helping adults in transitions or seeking career counseling, clients overcoming anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress, and highly sensitive people.
Accepting New Clients - I believe that everyone deserves to be happy, healthy, and fulfilled in their work—and that's why my mission is simple: helping people create balance between their personal and professional lives. If you choose to work with me, I will be someone who can support you, encourage you to grow with self-discovery, guide you towards a greater sense of well-being, and help you feel empowered to manage life’s ups and downs
I enjoy helping adults in transitions or seeking career counseling, clients overcoming anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress, and highly sensitive people.
Accepting New Clients - I believe that everyone deserves to be happy, healthy, and fulfilled in their work—and that's why my mission is simple: helping people create balance between their personal and professional lives. If you choose to work with me, I will be someone who can support you, encourage you to grow with self-discovery, guide you towards a greater sense of well-being, and help you feel empowered to manage life’s ups and downs
(984) 230-9681 View (984) 230-9681
Photo of Patricia Lytwyn, Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Patricia Lytwyn
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27607
Patty Lytwyn is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate with over four years of experience specializing in depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, trauma, mid-life transitions, and couples' issues, Patty treats patients between the ages of 11 and 70 utilizing Person Centered and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Patty has extensive experience counseling older children, adolescents, adults, seniors, families, and couples in both clinical and outpatient settings.
Patty Lytwyn is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate with over four years of experience specializing in depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, trauma, mid-life transitions, and couples' issues, Patty treats patients between the ages of 11 and 70 utilizing Person Centered and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Patty has extensive experience counseling older children, adolescents, adults, seniors, families, and couples in both clinical and outpatient settings.
(919) 849-5938 View (919) 849-5938
Photo of Brittany Fierro, Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Brittany Fierro
Counselor, MA, LPC, LCMHC, ADHD-CS, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27612  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am currently accepting new clients via telehealth. It can feel challenging trying to find a new therapist and the right fit between client and clinician is so important! I specialize in working with clients who want to experience change in their lives. I work with people experiencing anxiety, depression, and difficulties in relationships. I enjoy helping clients with healthy relationship skills, communication skills, conflict management, anxiety, body image, self-esteem, and career counseling. I am also certified as an ADHD clinical provider. I am passionate about the mind-body connection, and am also an athlete myself!
Welcome! I am currently accepting new clients via telehealth. It can feel challenging trying to find a new therapist and the right fit between client and clinician is so important! I specialize in working with clients who want to experience change in their lives. I work with people experiencing anxiety, depression, and difficulties in relationships. I enjoy helping clients with healthy relationship skills, communication skills, conflict management, anxiety, body image, self-esteem, and career counseling. I am also certified as an ADHD clinical provider. I am passionate about the mind-body connection, and am also an athlete myself!
(919) 372-3550 View (919) 372-3550
Photo of Julia Ross, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Julia Ross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27606
Waitlist for new clients
I strive to offer a therapeutic space for discovery, building hope, and transformation. The challenges that I commonly support people through include Depression, Anxiety or OCD/Phobias, Maternal Mental Health/Perinatal Trauma or Challenges, Life Transitions, Childhood Trauma or Trauma Processing, and ADHD/ASD. The goals with these presenting problems often include creating a sense of stability, finding effective coping strategies, building support systems, and developing a strengths-based or resilient narrative of their story.
I strive to offer a therapeutic space for discovery, building hope, and transformation. The challenges that I commonly support people through include Depression, Anxiety or OCD/Phobias, Maternal Mental Health/Perinatal Trauma or Challenges, Life Transitions, Childhood Trauma or Trauma Processing, and ADHD/ASD. The goals with these presenting problems often include creating a sense of stability, finding effective coping strategies, building support systems, and developing a strengths-based or resilient narrative of their story.
(919) 324-0873 View (919) 324-0873
Photo of Jennifer Bates, Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Jennifer Bates
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
My name is Jenny Bates, and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with over 22 years of clinical experience working with Individuals, Couples, Families, and Minors who are experiencing ADHD, Anxiety, Grief, Stress, and Relationship Issues. I use a mix of Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Eclectic, Family Systems, and Person-Centered therapies during treatments with my clients. I believe that successful therapy will require the client to play an active role both during and between sessions to practice new skills and learn ways to strengthen them.
My name is Jenny Bates, and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with over 22 years of clinical experience working with Individuals, Couples, Families, and Minors who are experiencing ADHD, Anxiety, Grief, Stress, and Relationship Issues. I use a mix of Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Eclectic, Family Systems, and Person-Centered therapies during treatments with my clients. I believe that successful therapy will require the client to play an active role both during and between sessions to practice new skills and learn ways to strengthen them.
(910) 490-4053 View (910) 490-4053
Photo of Audrey Doidge, Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Audrey Doidge
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
I am passionate about helping neurodivergent (autism, ADHD, and those who don't fit into boxes) adolescents and young adults thrive academically, socially, and personally. I provide support around emotional regulation, anxiety, social interaction, depression, school success, life transitions, and eating concerns. I also have experience supporting high school and college students with the transition to college and beyond.
I am passionate about helping neurodivergent (autism, ADHD, and those who don't fit into boxes) adolescents and young adults thrive academically, socially, and personally. I provide support around emotional regulation, anxiety, social interaction, depression, school success, life transitions, and eating concerns. I also have experience supporting high school and college students with the transition to college and beyond.
(919) 729-9428 View (919) 729-9428
Photo of Amy Rauch, Psychologist in Raleigh, NC
Amy Rauch
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
Looking for answers? Seeking a solution for you or your loved one? Learning difficulties, focus problems, emotional challenges or feeling as though you or your loved one aren’t living up to potential? Let’s have a conversation to determine whether a psychological assessment or therapy will help you get closer to your goals. While the new school year brings a fresh start and great intentions, it can often be very frustrating when that is not enough to create lasting change. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Learning Disabilities, and Psychological Disorders often adversely impact one’s ability to function and thrive. When these challenges are not adequately addressed, it can be disheartening when so much potential is hidden beneath the disorders.
Looking for answers? Seeking a solution for you or your loved one? Learning difficulties, focus problems, emotional challenges or feeling as though you or your loved one aren’t living up to potential? Let’s have a conversation to determine whether a psychological assessment or therapy will help you get closer to your goals. While the new school year brings a fresh start and great intentions, it can often be very frustrating when that is not enough to create lasting change. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Learning Disabilities, and Psychological Disorders often adversely impact one’s ability to function and thrive. When these challenges are not adequately addressed, it can be disheartening when so much potential is hidden beneath the disorders.
(984) 205-8516 View (984) 205-8516
Meredith Hickory
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27605
I am a pediatric neuropsychologist who conducts evaluations with children, teenagers, and young adults ages 3-24. I specialize in the areas of concussions, learning disabilities, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, and Anxiety.
I am a pediatric neuropsychologist who conducts evaluations with children, teenagers, and young adults ages 3-24. I specialize in the areas of concussions, learning disabilities, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, and Anxiety.
(919) 980-4755 View (919) 980-4755
Photo of Elizabeth Robinette, Licensed Professional Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Elizabeth Robinette
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27614  (Online Only)
I specialize in assessment and treatment of ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and learning disorders.
I am passionate about helping neurodivergent-identifying folx navigate a world designed by and for a neurotypical brain. I am an ardent advocate for neurodiversity and view ADHD as a brain style. My focus, through empirically supported coaching and solution-focused counseling, is to transform “disorder” into an asset. I partner with my clients to develop skills that compensate for the difficult parts of their diagnosis, while celebrating the amazing qualities of their neurodivergent brain.
I specialize in assessment and treatment of ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and learning disorders.
I am passionate about helping neurodivergent-identifying folx navigate a world designed by and for a neurotypical brain. I am an ardent advocate for neurodiversity and view ADHD as a brain style. My focus, through empirically supported coaching and solution-focused counseling, is to transform “disorder” into an asset. I partner with my clients to develop skills that compensate for the difficult parts of their diagnosis, while celebrating the amazing qualities of their neurodivergent brain.
(919) 858-2979 View (919) 858-2979
Photo of Christopher Ricci, Psychologist in Raleigh, NC
Christopher Ricci
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27613
Areas I Specialize In: ·ADHD ·Autistic spectrum ·Depression ·Anxiety ·Oppositional behavior ·Low self-esteem ·Adjusting to divorce and separation.
I use a strength-based psychological model and focus on the positive aspects of children, adolescents and their families. I am committed to understanding each client's unique situation with sensitivity. My goal is always to align with my client toward the resolution of conflict and to bring about happiness through the specific changes that come with new thoughts, feelings and behaviors.
Areas I Specialize In: ·ADHD ·Autistic spectrum ·Depression ·Anxiety ·Oppositional behavior ·Low self-esteem ·Adjusting to divorce and separation.
I use a strength-based psychological model and focus on the positive aspects of children, adolescents and their families. I am committed to understanding each client's unique situation with sensitivity. My goal is always to align with my client toward the resolution of conflict and to bring about happiness through the specific changes that come with new thoughts, feelings and behaviors.
(919) 335-5089 View (919) 335-5089
Photo of Maura Bourne, LCSW Associate in Raleigh, NC
Maura Bourne
LCSW Associate, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you wanting to make changes in your life? Everyone needs extra support now and then, especially when going through life changes such as starting college, moving to a new state or town, changes in work, or changes to relationships. I specialize in working with women with ADHD, and I have a great deal of experience working with women with: anxiety, life transitions, women’s issues, and mild to moderate depression.
Are you wanting to make changes in your life? Everyone needs extra support now and then, especially when going through life changes such as starting college, moving to a new state or town, changes in work, or changes to relationships. I specialize in working with women with ADHD, and I have a great deal of experience working with women with: anxiety, life transitions, women’s issues, and mild to moderate depression.
(919) 355-0980 View (919) 355-0980
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.