ADHD Therapists in Philadelphia, PA

Photo of Sherira J Fernandes, Psychologist in Philadelphia, PA
Sherira J Fernandes
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19104  (Online Only)
Is there some sort of rule book for life that you missed? How do other people know what's going on? You have/wonder about ADHD or Autism, or maybe people tell you that you should, but what does that really mean? I can help you understand what this means for you; how impacts you, and what this might mean in relationships. This might include work on planning, executive functioning, burnout, working on personal goal setting/finding direction, or a diagnostic evaluation. You'll have a safe place to be yourself, insight into your life, and concrete tips for moving forward, allowing you to be you.
Is there some sort of rule book for life that you missed? How do other people know what's going on? You have/wonder about ADHD or Autism, or maybe people tell you that you should, but what does that really mean? I can help you understand what this means for you; how impacts you, and what this might mean in relationships. This might include work on planning, executive functioning, burnout, working on personal goal setting/finding direction, or a diagnostic evaluation. You'll have a safe place to be yourself, insight into your life, and concrete tips for moving forward, allowing you to be you.
(484) 209-2579 View (484) 209-2579
Photo of Kaitlin DiGiacinto, Marriage & Family Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Kaitlin DiGiacinto
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
I also specialize in helping interracial couples, LGBTQAI+ folks, adults with ADHD and individuals exploring their identities.
Welcome! Congratulations on taking the first step on this adventure. I know finding the right therapist can be hard and a grueling process. For many clients this is the first time they have asked for help. I am passionate about creating a space for clients that is safe, freeing & nonjudgmental. I hope to do this through my multicultural background, interest in the client's perspective and the therapeutic relationship built. I operate from a systems & contextual framework where I believe clients are stuck, not sick. I work with clients to create goals and plans that are collaborative and empowering.
I also specialize in helping interracial couples, LGBTQAI+ folks, adults with ADHD and individuals exploring their identities.
Welcome! Congratulations on taking the first step on this adventure. I know finding the right therapist can be hard and a grueling process. For many clients this is the first time they have asked for help. I am passionate about creating a space for clients that is safe, freeing & nonjudgmental. I hope to do this through my multicultural background, interest in the client's perspective and the therapeutic relationship built. I operate from a systems & contextual framework where I believe clients are stuck, not sick. I work with clients to create goals and plans that are collaborative and empowering.
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Photo of Sloane Ferenchak, Psychological Associate in Philadelphia, PA
Sloane Ferenchak
Psychological Associate, PsyD, MEd, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19129  (Online Only)
My goal is to foster a warm, accepting, and respectful environment where we celebrate the beauty of ADHD while exploring and addressing the practical, emotional, psychological, and relational impacts of being neurodivergent in a neurotypical world.
I feel both honored and privileged to partner with individuals and couples to build their understanding of their challenges, leverage their strengths, and create personalized strategies to make meaningful changes in their lives. As a therapist with ADHD, I recognize that one of the most painful experiences that come with ADHD is feeling “in your own way” and the sense of thwarted potential that comes along with it. I also know that ADHD doesn’t just impact attention, organization, and motivation; it can affect your entire life, from your performance at work to your home life and inner world.
My goal is to foster a warm, accepting, and respectful environment where we celebrate the beauty of ADHD while exploring and addressing the practical, emotional, psychological, and relational impacts of being neurodivergent in a neurotypical world.
I feel both honored and privileged to partner with individuals and couples to build their understanding of their challenges, leverage their strengths, and create personalized strategies to make meaningful changes in their lives. As a therapist with ADHD, I recognize that one of the most painful experiences that come with ADHD is feeling “in your own way” and the sense of thwarted potential that comes along with it. I also know that ADHD doesn’t just impact attention, organization, and motivation; it can affect your entire life, from your performance at work to your home life and inner world.
(610) 989-7573 View (610) 989-7573
Photo of Djola McGowan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Djola McGowan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19144  (Online Only)
Djola served the Greater Philadelphia Families, supporting children and parents with grief, complex trauma, family structure/system concerns, reunification, ADHD, ODD, ASD, and DMDD.
Hey, I am Djola McGowan, also lovingly called DJ. I am a neurodivergent Licensed Professional Counselor, based in Philadelphia Pennsylvania. I identify as a woman and use the pronouns she/her. I am also a first-generation American, hailing from the land of wood and water Jamaica. I understand therapy to be a revolutionary act of self-care, and I view therapy as a collaborative process, she looks forward to working with her clients to find the best path to achieving their goals for wellness.
Djola served the Greater Philadelphia Families, supporting children and parents with grief, complex trauma, family structure/system concerns, reunification, ADHD, ODD, ASD, and DMDD.
Hey, I am Djola McGowan, also lovingly called DJ. I am a neurodivergent Licensed Professional Counselor, based in Philadelphia Pennsylvania. I identify as a woman and use the pronouns she/her. I am also a first-generation American, hailing from the land of wood and water Jamaica. I understand therapy to be a revolutionary act of self-care, and I view therapy as a collaborative process, she looks forward to working with her clients to find the best path to achieving their goals for wellness.
(484) 603-6643 View (484) 603-6643
Photo of Leeor Gal, Marriage & Family Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Leeor Gal
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Maybe you have anxiety, experienced trauma, or diagnosed with ADHD and you're looking to heal those parts. Perhaps you’re struggling with your partner, friends, boss, or parents and you’re looking to understand those relationships deeper. It can feel overwhelming and isolating working on healing from negative experiences, I get it. We may oftentimes find ourselves feeling stuck and unsure of where to go to next. I want to help you overcome that. Changing is not necessarily the answer, but rather growing into the version of you that you want to see.
Maybe you have anxiety, experienced trauma, or diagnosed with ADHD and you're looking to heal those parts. Perhaps you’re struggling with your partner, friends, boss, or parents and you’re looking to understand those relationships deeper. It can feel overwhelming and isolating working on healing from negative experiences, I get it. We may oftentimes find ourselves feeling stuck and unsure of where to go to next. I want to help you overcome that. Changing is not necessarily the answer, but rather growing into the version of you that you want to see.
(215) 515-5647 View (215) 515-5647
Photo of Kate Engel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Kate Engel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19147  (Online Only)
Anxiety, lack of focus, and obsessive thinking should not be barriers to living a happy and fulfilling life. Are you struggling to understand why you feel overwhelmed with unhealthy thoughts and emotions? By getting to the root of what is driving these actions, I can help you process in order to uncover unhealthy patterns and teach you skills to manage your behaviors so you can achieve growth and positive change to be the person you want to be. I approach therapy with compassion and humor. By teaching you to be in the moment, we will help quiet your anxious mind together. My specialties are ADHD, OCD, phobias, and social anxiety.
Anxiety, lack of focus, and obsessive thinking should not be barriers to living a happy and fulfilling life. Are you struggling to understand why you feel overwhelmed with unhealthy thoughts and emotions? By getting to the root of what is driving these actions, I can help you process in order to uncover unhealthy patterns and teach you skills to manage your behaviors so you can achieve growth and positive change to be the person you want to be. I approach therapy with compassion and humor. By teaching you to be in the moment, we will help quiet your anxious mind together. My specialties are ADHD, OCD, phobias, and social anxiety.
(267) 214-6526 View (267) 214-6526
Photo of Lydia Bennett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Lydia Bennett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19128  (Online Only)
My typical client is trying their best to navigate their lives and feels thrown off course by symptoms of ADHD, depression, anxiety, grief, family conflict or self doubt.
Finding a therapist can be difficult and prioritizing yourself can be even harder. You may be seeking support for feeling overwhelmed, disorganized, or trying to balance too much at once. Or you may be like many people and experience guilt or shame because you think you aren't living up to personal or societal expectations. These all can effect how you feel about yourself, your work and your relationships. It's hard to know where to start and that's why I'm here. Therapy is a space where we can identify what it is you want from life and develop strategies to help you not only cope but also develop proactive ways to help you thrive.
My typical client is trying their best to navigate their lives and feels thrown off course by symptoms of ADHD, depression, anxiety, grief, family conflict or self doubt.
Finding a therapist can be difficult and prioritizing yourself can be even harder. You may be seeking support for feeling overwhelmed, disorganized, or trying to balance too much at once. Or you may be like many people and experience guilt or shame because you think you aren't living up to personal or societal expectations. These all can effect how you feel about yourself, your work and your relationships. It's hard to know where to start and that's why I'm here. Therapy is a space where we can identify what it is you want from life and develop strategies to help you not only cope but also develop proactive ways to help you thrive.
(267) 762-2065 View (267) 762-2065
Photo of Gabby Boatwright, Pre-Licensed Professional in Philadelphia, PA
Gabby Boatwright
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19143  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people to find and use their voice, particularly adults, adolescents, people in the LGBTQ+ community, and those who struggle with ADHD.
My goal as a therapist is to give people a safe space to be themselves. Life is tough sometimes, and having support is important to the healing and self-discovery processes. I learned through my own life’s challenges the value in having someone to be an accepting, empathetic listener who helps you unpack the bags that weigh you down.
I specialize in helping people to find and use their voice, particularly adults, adolescents, people in the LGBTQ+ community, and those who struggle with ADHD.
My goal as a therapist is to give people a safe space to be themselves. Life is tough sometimes, and having support is important to the healing and self-discovery processes. I learned through my own life’s challenges the value in having someone to be an accepting, empathetic listener who helps you unpack the bags that weigh you down.
(267) 459-9748 View (267) 459-9748
Photo of Mav Atis-Valentine, Pre-Licensed Professional in Philadelphia, PA
Mav Atis-Valentine
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19143  (Online Only)
ASD, ADHD, Complex PTSD, etc), and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
My work is trauma informed, taking into consideration the specific needs of each individual based on their past experiences. When you are aware of the ways you are influenced by your past programming, we can put the tools in your hands to help you take control of your life. I strive to provide you with an empathetic space for you to become your truest self.
ASD, ADHD, Complex PTSD, etc), and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
My work is trauma informed, taking into consideration the specific needs of each individual based on their past experiences. When you are aware of the ways you are influenced by your past programming, we can put the tools in your hands to help you take control of your life. I strive to provide you with an empathetic space for you to become your truest self.
(267) 459-2479 View (267) 459-2479
Photo of Victoria Prisco, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Victoria Prisco
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCAT, LPC, CAADC, PMP, ADHD-CP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19125  (Online Only)
Do you feel like your internal GPS keeps rerouting, leaving you restless and yearning for groundedness? Is your inner critic a constant companion, drowning out your self-compassion in a chorus of "shoulds" and "not-good-enoughs"? As a therapist & special educator specializing in ADHD, woman's health & intergenerational trauma, I see you, the incredible person you are navigating the chaos with immense strength. Together, let's untangle the threads of your past and break free from the cycles that no longer serve you. We'll use data driven interventions to cultivate inner peace.
Do you feel like your internal GPS keeps rerouting, leaving you restless and yearning for groundedness? Is your inner critic a constant companion, drowning out your self-compassion in a chorus of "shoulds" and "not-good-enoughs"? As a therapist & special educator specializing in ADHD, woman's health & intergenerational trauma, I see you, the incredible person you are navigating the chaos with immense strength. Together, let's untangle the threads of your past and break free from the cycles that no longer serve you. We'll use data driven interventions to cultivate inner peace.
(215) 261-5784 View (215) 261-5784
Photo of Maryalyce Rensa, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Maryalyce Rensa
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19104  (Online Only)
MaryAlyce Rensa is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania, who has 30 years of experience counseling adults, teens, and children seeking help with anxiety, depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and trauma. MaryAlyce completed her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from University of MD, University College, and received her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Towson University in Towson, MD.
MaryAlyce Rensa is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania, who has 30 years of experience counseling adults, teens, and children seeking help with anxiety, depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and trauma. MaryAlyce completed her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from University of MD, University College, and received her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Towson University in Towson, MD.
(267) 313-5928 View (267) 313-5928
Photo of Kameil Nicholson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Kameil Nicholson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102  (Online Only)
Together, we will create a plan tailored to foster your personal growth, and master self care in the face of inattentive ADHD/stress related challenges.
Seeking focus and clarity? Feeling stressed, anxious or forgetting? I specialize in helping adults who grapple with these daily challenges making it difficult to navigate life. If you are motivated and resilient, yet, facing persistent challenges in relationships, school or work, I am here for you. I can be your guiding hand to help you. Allow me to support you in your commitment to making positive changes in your life to enhance your productivity, satisfaction and personal wellness.
Together, we will create a plan tailored to foster your personal growth, and master self care in the face of inattentive ADHD/stress related challenges.
Seeking focus and clarity? Feeling stressed, anxious or forgetting? I specialize in helping adults who grapple with these daily challenges making it difficult to navigate life. If you are motivated and resilient, yet, facing persistent challenges in relationships, school or work, I am here for you. I can be your guiding hand to help you. Allow me to support you in your commitment to making positive changes in your life to enhance your productivity, satisfaction and personal wellness.
(267) 282-0462 View (267) 282-0462
Photo of Lauren Green, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Lauren Green
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19104
I have extensive experience and training in a variety of issues including anxiety disorders, adult ADHD, social phobia, and overeating.
I want to help you to feel better about yourself and your life. You can talk to me about anything that’s bothering you. I’m an expert listener and will guide you in finding effective solutions to your problems. When you sit with me, I give you my complete attention and support. Talking with me in an accepting, caring space can be healing. Learning new ways to cope and understand things can lift your mood. I believe that entering into therapy is an excellent start. That’s why I do this – because I see positive changes in my clients. My style is warm, interactive and compassionate.
I have extensive experience and training in a variety of issues including anxiety disorders, adult ADHD, social phobia, and overeating.
I want to help you to feel better about yourself and your life. You can talk to me about anything that’s bothering you. I’m an expert listener and will guide you in finding effective solutions to your problems. When you sit with me, I give you my complete attention and support. Talking with me in an accepting, caring space can be healing. Learning new ways to cope and understand things can lift your mood. I believe that entering into therapy is an excellent start. That’s why I do this – because I see positive changes in my clients. My style is warm, interactive and compassionate.
(267) 214-8722 View (267) 214-8722
Photo of Sophie Nathan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Sophie Nathan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19119  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with adults navigating ADHD, anxiety, parenthood and LGBTQ+ folks in particular.
My goal is to help clients feel heard, supported and understood. Whether you are coming to therapy to navigate difficult life changes, in order to set healthy boundaries, for support in reframing your anxious thoughts, thinking through how your past family dynamics affect you or navigating your identity, I am here to offer encouraging guidance, direct engagement and nurturing support. Therapy is a collaborative process and I take a relational approach to support you in expressing yourself authentically, navigating change, reframing negative self talk, setting healthy boundaries and supporting you in enhancing the way you cope.
I enjoy working with adults navigating ADHD, anxiety, parenthood and LGBTQ+ folks in particular.
My goal is to help clients feel heard, supported and understood. Whether you are coming to therapy to navigate difficult life changes, in order to set healthy boundaries, for support in reframing your anxious thoughts, thinking through how your past family dynamics affect you or navigating your identity, I am here to offer encouraging guidance, direct engagement and nurturing support. Therapy is a collaborative process and I take a relational approach to support you in expressing yourself authentically, navigating change, reframing negative self talk, setting healthy boundaries and supporting you in enhancing the way you cope.
(856) 644-1253 View (856) 644-1253
Photo of Valerie Anne Davis in Philadelphia, PA
Valerie Anne Davis
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19151
I specialize in Anger Management, Depression, Finding Happiness, Personality Disorders such as ADHD, Autism, and OCD, Relationships, Grief, Self-Esteem, Marriage, Self-Defeat, etc.
I specialize in helping clients to become focused as they set their goals through the challenging events that is taking place in their lives. I help them to see that they do not have to be in fear when it comes to setting their goals. They can relax while setting their goals one at a time at a pace that is comfortable for them.
I specialize in Anger Management, Depression, Finding Happiness, Personality Disorders such as ADHD, Autism, and OCD, Relationships, Grief, Self-Esteem, Marriage, Self-Defeat, etc.
I specialize in helping clients to become focused as they set their goals through the challenging events that is taking place in their lives. I help them to see that they do not have to be in fear when it comes to setting their goals. They can relax while setting their goals one at a time at a pace that is comfortable for them.
(267) 613-9514 View (267) 613-9514
Photo of Dr. Ivy Torres in Philadelphia, PA
Dr. Ivy Torres
MBA, PhD-EdD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
I have over 15 years experience providing adults, parents and students guidance to improve ADHD living, communication, and skills to enhance life success.
With over 15 years experience in life coaching, I can help you reach your full potential by helping you focus on your individual strengths, skills, and talents. I provide one-on-one consultation in the areas you need most, and commit to providing you with superb quality guidance to help meet your life goals. I design specialized programs tailored to meet specific goals and individual needs. I will empower you with tools, resources, strategies, and practices to help enhance the quality of your life. Request more information on an individualized coaching plan.
I have over 15 years experience providing adults, parents and students guidance to improve ADHD living, communication, and skills to enhance life success.
With over 15 years experience in life coaching, I can help you reach your full potential by helping you focus on your individual strengths, skills, and talents. I provide one-on-one consultation in the areas you need most, and commit to providing you with superb quality guidance to help meet your life goals. I design specialized programs tailored to meet specific goals and individual needs. I will empower you with tools, resources, strategies, and practices to help enhance the quality of your life. Request more information on an individualized coaching plan.
(267) 606-0388 View (267) 606-0388
Photo of Sara Johnson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Philadelphia, PA
Sara Johnson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPCA
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
If you'd like to get free from relational trauma, I would love to help you. I specialize in anxiety, depression, emotional and narcissistic abuse, Trauma/PTSD, ACA / ACoA recovery for adult children of alcoholics and family dysfunction, Personality Disorders, and ADHD. I've worked in substance abuse recovery for 8 years and led a group for adults with ADHD with the national organization CHADD for 3 years. I work with abuse survivors and I lead an ongoing group for recovery from gaslighting, narcissistic and emotional abuse, betrayal trauma, and intimate partner violence. If you're going through hell, keep going.
If you'd like to get free from relational trauma, I would love to help you. I specialize in anxiety, depression, emotional and narcissistic abuse, Trauma/PTSD, ACA / ACoA recovery for adult children of alcoholics and family dysfunction, Personality Disorders, and ADHD. I've worked in substance abuse recovery for 8 years and led a group for adults with ADHD with the national organization CHADD for 3 years. I work with abuse survivors and I lead an ongoing group for recovery from gaslighting, narcissistic and emotional abuse, betrayal trauma, and intimate partner violence. If you're going through hell, keep going.
(215) 910-4075 View (215) 910-4075
Photo of Elliot Rotman, Psychologist in Philadelphia, PA
Elliot Rotman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Adults experiencing work or personal difficulties due to diagnosed or suspected ADHD is a specialty and in such cases we work to develop strategies for better organization and focus.
I believe people seek help from when they get "stuck" in some aspect of their lives. Through my 25 plus years of practice I work to help others make changes, choices, solve problems, and to grow in order to get "unstuck" and progress. I take an active, interactive, and supportive approach to therapy and use a variety of approaches as needed, sometimes working with the past and always with applications to the present.
Adults experiencing work or personal difficulties due to diagnosed or suspected ADHD is a specialty and in such cases we work to develop strategies for better organization and focus.
I believe people seek help from when they get "stuck" in some aspect of their lives. Through my 25 plus years of practice I work to help others make changes, choices, solve problems, and to grow in order to get "unstuck" and progress. I take an active, interactive, and supportive approach to therapy and use a variety of approaches as needed, sometimes working with the past and always with applications to the present.
(215) 874-7312 View (215) 874-7312
Photo of Melisa O. Furman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Melisa O. Furman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
Many find themselves at a point in their lives where external support is necessary to navigate life's challenges. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I am that support for my clients.I create a safe space for my clients to explore their deep feelings, develop a plan, learn healthy coping strategies and increase self-confidence. I am experienced in facilitating conversations around divorce and separation with children and teenagers. I specialize in behavioral change and healing inter-personal relationships. I work with many individuals, families and youth experiencing ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Addiction and Post Traumatic Stress.
Many find themselves at a point in their lives where external support is necessary to navigate life's challenges. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I am that support for my clients.I create a safe space for my clients to explore their deep feelings, develop a plan, learn healthy coping strategies and increase self-confidence. I am experienced in facilitating conversations around divorce and separation with children and teenagers. I specialize in behavioral change and healing inter-personal relationships. I work with many individuals, families and youth experiencing ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Addiction and Post Traumatic Stress.
(484) 464-0296 View (484) 464-0296
Photo of Katie Craig, Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Katie Craig
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Katie Craig treats patients from 16 + Katie has been working as a mental health professional for 12 years, beginning her career as an outpatient therapist. Throughout her career, Katie has worked in various roles; Child Intensive Outpatient (IOP) group therapist, Adult IOP group therapist, outpatient individual therapist for adults and children, and supervisor of a community mental health clinic for 5 years. She has experience with a wide age range of individuals. Katie now specializes in treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, and ADHD. She works within a cognitive-behavioral orientation, and treats adolescents and adults.
Katie Craig treats patients from 16 + Katie has been working as a mental health professional for 12 years, beginning her career as an outpatient therapist. Throughout her career, Katie has worked in various roles; Child Intensive Outpatient (IOP) group therapist, Adult IOP group therapist, outpatient individual therapist for adults and children, and supervisor of a community mental health clinic for 5 years. She has experience with a wide age range of individuals. Katie now specializes in treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, and ADHD. She works within a cognitive-behavioral orientation, and treats adolescents and adults.
(267) 214-4260 View (267) 214-4260

See more therapy options for Philadelphia

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.