Photo of undefined - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94607
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
(510) 945-1478 View (510) 945-1478
Photo of undefined - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94607
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
(510) 319-0360 View (510) 319-0360
Photo of Chelsie Crilly, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Chelsie Crilly
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
I specialize in working with ADHD, HSP, and ASD. Being in our bodies- and being in our world- can be very difficult. This is especially true when when you're a highly sensitive person. My typical client often hears "you're being too much" while also dreading the feeling of not "being enough". I'm here to take a deep dive into what's making you feel like "too much" and highlight the ways you are "just enough for the right people". Typically, my client's goals are to live more comfortably in their sensitive skin, find liberation from shame, and better manage depression and anxiety.
I specialize in working with ADHD, HSP, and ASD. Being in our bodies- and being in our world- can be very difficult. This is especially true when when you're a highly sensitive person. My typical client often hears "you're being too much" while also dreading the feeling of not "being enough". I'm here to take a deep dive into what's making you feel like "too much" and highlight the ways you are "just enough for the right people". Typically, my client's goals are to live more comfortably in their sensitive skin, find liberation from shame, and better manage depression and anxiety.
(925) 744-6783 View (925) 744-6783
Photo of undefined - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94607
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
(650) 719-1562 View (650) 719-1562
Photo of Lindsey Cavin, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lindsey Cavin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94602  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with Teens and Adults with Neurodiversity, including ADHD, Learning Differences, and Autism, by acknowledging and honoring the distinct strengths and challenges inherent to this experience.  My expertise also extends to addressing Anxiety, Depression, At-Risk Youth, Stress Management, Addiction, Self-Esteem, and Codependency. Through tailored therapeutic approaches including CBT, ACT, and Solutions-Focused interventions, I will support you in managing unwanted developing coping strategies, and cultivating a greater sense of self-acceptance and empowerment.
I specialize in working with Teens and Adults with Neurodiversity, including ADHD, Learning Differences, and Autism, by acknowledging and honoring the distinct strengths and challenges inherent to this experience.  My expertise also extends to addressing Anxiety, Depression, At-Risk Youth, Stress Management, Addiction, Self-Esteem, and Codependency. Through tailored therapeutic approaches including CBT, ACT, and Solutions-Focused interventions, I will support you in managing unwanted developing coping strategies, and cultivating a greater sense of self-acceptance and empowerment.
(707) 940-5192 View (707) 940-5192
Photo of undefined - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94603
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
(650) 719-2310 View (650) 719-2310
Photo of Sandra L Stultz, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sandra L Stultz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! You are not alone! I offer a personable, approach allowing you to feel comfortable on your healing journey. Together we will identify your areas of concern and develop a treatment plan to assist you and/or child, partner in your journey. I have a wide range of experience that includes disorders such as ADHD, mood regulation, women's issues, and relationship concerns.
Welcome! You are not alone! I offer a personable, approach allowing you to feel comfortable on your healing journey. Together we will identify your areas of concern and develop a treatment plan to assist you and/or child, partner in your journey. I have a wide range of experience that includes disorders such as ADHD, mood regulation, women's issues, and relationship concerns.
(510) 319-0287 View (510) 319-0287
Photo of Joshua Pasewaldt, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joshua Pasewaldt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94601
Joshua Pasewaldt, LMFT 106522. I work with couples and individuals, utilizing a combination of tools and skills from multiple therapeutic approaches (cognitive to behavioral therapy, solution-focused, gestalt, and trail-focused cognitive therapy). I have worked with ADHD, anger management, anxiety, dual diagnosis, OCD, addiction, depression, grief and loss, personality disorders, and relationship conflict/distress. My communication style is often described as somewhat conversational with epiphanies that hit deep.
Joshua Pasewaldt, LMFT 106522. I work with couples and individuals, utilizing a combination of tools and skills from multiple therapeutic approaches (cognitive to behavioral therapy, solution-focused, gestalt, and trail-focused cognitive therapy). I have worked with ADHD, anger management, anxiety, dual diagnosis, OCD, addiction, depression, grief and loss, personality disorders, and relationship conflict/distress. My communication style is often described as somewhat conversational with epiphanies that hit deep.
(510) 983-7847 View (510) 983-7847
Photo of Kelly Albrecht, ASW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kelly Albrecht
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
With expertise in substance use disorder, ADHD, bipolar and personality disorders, my holistic approach to therapy prioritizes safety and healing, with trauma-informed care.
Are you struggling to process depression, anxiety, relationship/family issues, and trauma? These emotional ruptures can cause major disruptions in our lives. The work to process these types of life events is multifaceted, and I can help you identify your feelings and potential relational patterns, build tolerance and acceptance around challenging ones, and set meaningful goals. In order to do so, I utilize various therapeutic approaches consisting of ACT, CBT, and Problem Solving Therapy and somatic interventions.
With expertise in substance use disorder, ADHD, bipolar and personality disorders, my holistic approach to therapy prioritizes safety and healing, with trauma-informed care.
Are you struggling to process depression, anxiety, relationship/family issues, and trauma? These emotional ruptures can cause major disruptions in our lives. The work to process these types of life events is multifaceted, and I can help you identify your feelings and potential relational patterns, build tolerance and acceptance around challenging ones, and set meaningful goals. In order to do so, I utilize various therapeutic approaches consisting of ACT, CBT, and Problem Solving Therapy and somatic interventions.
(415) 855-7073 View (415) 855-7073
Photo of Liana Huang, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liana Huang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I have had the privilege to work with individuals with generational trauma, grief, ADHD, and relational/familial issues.
When we are exposed to trauma at an early age, it can seriously impact how we feel about ourselves and our relationships with others. Trauma can also profoundly affect whether we feel this is a safe world and can contribute to depression, anxiety, and relational/familial issues. My practice is from a strengths-based, trauma-informed perspective with a non-judgmental framework. I aim to understand clients’ internal responses and to provide more options for emotional regulation and problem-solving.
I have had the privilege to work with individuals with generational trauma, grief, ADHD, and relational/familial issues.
When we are exposed to trauma at an early age, it can seriously impact how we feel about ourselves and our relationships with others. Trauma can also profoundly affect whether we feel this is a safe world and can contribute to depression, anxiety, and relational/familial issues. My practice is from a strengths-based, trauma-informed perspective with a non-judgmental framework. I aim to understand clients’ internal responses and to provide more options for emotional regulation and problem-solving.
(415) 942-6964 View (415) 942-6964
Photo of Paul Boyer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paul Boyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
As of June 2024, I am accepting new in-person clients at my downtown Oakland office on Wednesday afternoons and evenings. I offer teletherapy as well. I find the greatest satisfaction and success working with clients who have been in therapy for a long time, or with many providers, with underwhelming results. Typically, these clients have diagnoses like anxiety, depression, substance use, OCD, ADHD, etc. and have been managing their symptoms well enough to get by, but without obvious, fundamental, long-term progress. Many have done conventional talk therapy for years, covering the same ground over and over with no clear benefit.
As of June 2024, I am accepting new in-person clients at my downtown Oakland office on Wednesday afternoons and evenings. I offer teletherapy as well. I find the greatest satisfaction and success working with clients who have been in therapy for a long time, or with many providers, with underwhelming results. Typically, these clients have diagnoses like anxiety, depression, substance use, OCD, ADHD, etc. and have been managing their symptoms well enough to get by, but without obvious, fundamental, long-term progress. Many have done conventional talk therapy for years, covering the same ground over and over with no clear benefit.
(341) 888-6106 View (341) 888-6106
Photo of Esther Krohner, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Esther Krohner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
Life is already so complicated. My hope is to empower you to make yours more fulfilling. Our work will take action and help you become your own best ally. I'm a therapist for people who have been reluctant to try therapy! My strength is in relationships, whether those are with ourselves, our children, or our partners. I offer couples counseling, parent guidance and coaching, and family and individual therapy. My style is warm, client centered, holistic and down to earth. I can help when anxiety, depression, ADHD, addiction, trauma, high-conflict and big decisions are interfering with life and relationships.
Life is already so complicated. My hope is to empower you to make yours more fulfilling. Our work will take action and help you become your own best ally. I'm a therapist for people who have been reluctant to try therapy! My strength is in relationships, whether those are with ourselves, our children, or our partners. I offer couples counseling, parent guidance and coaching, and family and individual therapy. My style is warm, client centered, holistic and down to earth. I can help when anxiety, depression, ADHD, addiction, trauma, high-conflict and big decisions are interfering with life and relationships.
(510) 851-9411 x248797 View (510) 851-9411 x248797
Photo of Frank Banks, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Frank Banks
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94605
Is one or more of your kids on the Spectrum or have the ASD/ADD/OCD triad? In your relationship, is one of you on the spectrum and one not and is that causing misunderstandings and problems? Are you on the spectrum and having trouble understanding the non-spectrum people and world around you? I can help you bridge differences and deal with conflicts and meltdowns in an empathetic and constructive way. Also, I work for with LGBTQ people and couples with a variety of mental health concerns like anxiety and depression. It's hard growing up different from your peers. It can cause low self esteem, crippling self doubt and anger.
Is one or more of your kids on the Spectrum or have the ASD/ADD/OCD triad? In your relationship, is one of you on the spectrum and one not and is that causing misunderstandings and problems? Are you on the spectrum and having trouble understanding the non-spectrum people and world around you? I can help you bridge differences and deal with conflicts and meltdowns in an empathetic and constructive way. Also, I work for with LGBTQ people and couples with a variety of mental health concerns like anxiety and depression. It's hard growing up different from your peers. It can cause low self esteem, crippling self doubt and anger.
(415) 802-0854 View (415) 802-0854
Photo of Gabriella Kamara- Creative Trauma Therapist, MA, APCC, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Gabriella Kamara- Creative Trauma Therapist
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, APCC, NCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, mood disorders, ADHD, neurodiversity, expressive arts, substance abuse, all ages, harm reduction & education.
Being constantly in the trenches with your mental health without the right help, knowledge, or support can feel like a helpless battle. Like trying to fit a square peg in a round hole, it can be a frustrating experience. Using an integrative, creative and dynamic approach to therapy, my work aims to meet you in the darkness; rolling up my sleeves and joining you in the mud. Together, we will work together to get you free of the hole you find yourself in.
My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, mood disorders, ADHD, neurodiversity, expressive arts, substance abuse, all ages, harm reduction & education.
Being constantly in the trenches with your mental health without the right help, knowledge, or support can feel like a helpless battle. Like trying to fit a square peg in a round hole, it can be a frustrating experience. Using an integrative, creative and dynamic approach to therapy, my work aims to meet you in the darkness; rolling up my sleeves and joining you in the mud. Together, we will work together to get you free of the hole you find yourself in.
(213) 466-1480 View (213) 466-1480
Photo of David A Donovan, PhD, Psychologist
David A Donovan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
anxiety; ADHD.
Are you a man with problems at work, or your relationships? Do you want things to be different? Then you must do things differently. Usually we solve problems by our efforts, or with the support of friends and family. That is often best. Other times, professional guidance is required. If you want an experienced psychologist who is well informed, practical, compassionate, and collaborative, consider working with me. I am ready to help you help yourself. Just email to arrange a phone consultation without cost or obligation. Please note: I provide online therapy to California men only.
anxiety; ADHD.
Are you a man with problems at work, or your relationships? Do you want things to be different? Then you must do things differently. Usually we solve problems by our efforts, or with the support of friends and family. That is often best. Other times, professional guidance is required. If you want an experienced psychologist who is well informed, practical, compassionate, and collaborative, consider working with me. I am ready to help you help yourself. Just email to arrange a phone consultation without cost or obligation. Please note: I provide online therapy to California men only.
(415) 802-0119 View (415) 802-0119
Photo of undefined - Bay Area Center for Adolescents, Psychologist
Bay Area Center for Adolescents
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94604
Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse, Defiance, Problems with Family, Cutting, Eating Disorders, Sexual Identity Issues, ADD/ADHD, Learning Disabilities, and Anger.
We at the Bay Area Center for Adolescents understand that adolescence can be a difficult time for preteens, teens, young adults, and parents. On the one hand, adolescents are learning to manage life on their own and wanting more independence, but on the other hand, they may not be prepared for the responsibilities of life or realizing the consequences of their actions. We work with adolescents and their families to navigate this difficult time while helping adolescents to become independent, but still maintain the relationship with family. The Bay Area Center for Adolescents is a group of providers who all know how to connect with adolescents and their families and provide effective therapy.
Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse, Defiance, Problems with Family, Cutting, Eating Disorders, Sexual Identity Issues, ADD/ADHD, Learning Disabilities, and Anger.
We at the Bay Area Center for Adolescents understand that adolescence can be a difficult time for preteens, teens, young adults, and parents. On the one hand, adolescents are learning to manage life on their own and wanting more independence, but on the other hand, they may not be prepared for the responsibilities of life or realizing the consequences of their actions. We work with adolescents and their families to navigate this difficult time while helping adolescents to become independent, but still maintain the relationship with family. The Bay Area Center for Adolescents is a group of providers who all know how to connect with adolescents and their families and provide effective therapy.
(415) 594-4958 View (415) 594-4958
Photo of Michael Southerland, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael Southerland
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
Hi! My name is Michael Southerland, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist working in the Los Angeles, CA area. This means I focus primarily on relationships, be it individuals having difficulty with rough spots in life, couples, children, and families. I am comfortable working with almost any problem. However, my specialties include depression, anxiety, substance abuse and addiction, codependency, ADHD, and especially LGBT + engender identity. Don't hesitate to reach out to me and ask me if I have experience in working with clients like you. I'm looking forward to hearing.
Hi! My name is Michael Southerland, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist working in the Los Angeles, CA area. This means I focus primarily on relationships, be it individuals having difficulty with rough spots in life, couples, children, and families. I am comfortable working with almost any problem. However, my specialties include depression, anxiety, substance abuse and addiction, codependency, ADHD, and especially LGBT + engender identity. Don't hesitate to reach out to me and ask me if I have experience in working with clients like you. I'm looking forward to hearing.
(650) 670-4976 View (650) 670-4976
Photo of Marcus Christmas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marcus Christmas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94619
My greatest reward as a therapist is seeing children, adolescents, families and individuals work through the areas of their lives that prevent them from walking in their fullest potential and overcoming obstacles to get to know themselves on a deeper level. Therapy is a personal journey that is empowering and healing. I work to structure sessions that are warm, compassionate and nonjudgmental. I incorporate clients in the process when developing goals based on their current struggles.
My greatest reward as a therapist is seeing children, adolescents, families and individuals work through the areas of their lives that prevent them from walking in their fullest potential and overcoming obstacles to get to know themselves on a deeper level. Therapy is a personal journey that is empowering and healing. I work to structure sessions that are warm, compassionate and nonjudgmental. I incorporate clients in the process when developing goals based on their current struggles.
(415) 231-0656 View (415) 231-0656
Photo of Chinmay Surpur, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Chinmay Surpur
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
Waitlist for new clients
Are you experiencing difficulties concentrating? Do you ever feel that your mood is so low you can’t get out of bed? Do you struggle with anxiety or obsessive thoughts? Are you finding yourself wrestling with existential thoughts? Maybe you’re experiencing a combination of issues that just don’t let you feel like yourself? Whatever you’re experiencing, I’m here to help. Through our work together, we can identify your core issues and make a plan to address them using an individually-tailored and holistic approach to achieve your goals. Let’s embark on this journey of healing together!
Are you experiencing difficulties concentrating? Do you ever feel that your mood is so low you can’t get out of bed? Do you struggle with anxiety or obsessive thoughts? Are you finding yourself wrestling with existential thoughts? Maybe you’re experiencing a combination of issues that just don’t let you feel like yourself? Whatever you’re experiencing, I’m here to help. Through our work together, we can identify your core issues and make a plan to address them using an individually-tailored and holistic approach to achieve your goals. Let’s embark on this journey of healing together!
(510) 422-0827 View (510) 422-0827
Photo of Guillermina Gigi Valdes-Huckabee, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Guillermina Gigi Valdes-Huckabee
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
Welcome to a space where we together can co-create the healing that you need. I have 20 years of experience as a psychotherapist and recently implemented a more holistic approach by adding intuitive healing, reiki and massage therapy. Whether you dealing with depression, anxiety, panic, phobias, obsessions, life transitions, spiritual issues, attachment issues, trauma (recent or childhood), relationship issues, or other environmental stressors (political, financial, housing, racial or other) . My passion is to help individuals heal trauma. I understand your pain. Let me meet you where you are and support your healing.
Welcome to a space where we together can co-create the healing that you need. I have 20 years of experience as a psychotherapist and recently implemented a more holistic approach by adding intuitive healing, reiki and massage therapy. Whether you dealing with depression, anxiety, panic, phobias, obsessions, life transitions, spiritual issues, attachment issues, trauma (recent or childhood), relationship issues, or other environmental stressors (political, financial, housing, racial or other) . My passion is to help individuals heal trauma. I understand your pain. Let me meet you where you are and support your healing.
(510) 907-6756 View (510) 907-6756
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.