ADHD Therapists in Washington, DC

Photo of Lauren Finney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Lauren Finney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
My specialty and passion is working with adolescents: teenagers, college students, and young adults; especially around anxiety and ADHD.
I view therapy as an opportunity for every person to have a confidential, supportive, and guided experience towards personal growth and facing life’s unending challenges. My style of therapy is very much like my personality: down to earth, humble, funny, compassionate, slightly sarcastic, direct, and blunt in a loving way. I have a sense of humor about myself, and I encourage my clients to adopt the same attitude. Each client who walks into my office comes with a unique history of experiences. To personalize treatment I use a combination of evidence-based therapeutic techniques to best support, explore, interpret, and solve.
My specialty and passion is working with adolescents: teenagers, college students, and young adults; especially around anxiety and ADHD.
I view therapy as an opportunity for every person to have a confidential, supportive, and guided experience towards personal growth and facing life’s unending challenges. My style of therapy is very much like my personality: down to earth, humble, funny, compassionate, slightly sarcastic, direct, and blunt in a loving way. I have a sense of humor about myself, and I encourage my clients to adopt the same attitude. Each client who walks into my office comes with a unique history of experiences. To personalize treatment I use a combination of evidence-based therapeutic techniques to best support, explore, interpret, and solve.
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Photo of Amber Lynn Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Amber Lynn Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
I'm a licensed therapist with a specialization in ADHD, trauma, and anxiety. My role is to provide compassionate support, structure, validation, and tools to help you improve your mental health and accomplish your goals.
I'm a licensed therapist with a specialization in ADHD, trauma, and anxiety. My role is to provide compassionate support, structure, validation, and tools to help you improve your mental health and accomplish your goals.
(202) 902-6320 x602 View (202) 902-6320 x602
Photo of The DC Center for Neurocognitive Excellence, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
The DC Center for Neurocognitive Excellence
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006
We are experts at assessing and treating ADD/ADHD, PTSD, and trauma symptoms.
The Center for Neurocognitive Excellence integrates assessments, counseling, and neurofeedback to best identify the source of your stress and effectively treat it so that we can reduce the intensity, duration, and frequency of your most stressful moments. We are experts at integrating approaches to best suit your needs. Listening and working with you is a huge source of joy!
We are experts at assessing and treating ADD/ADHD, PTSD, and trauma symptoms.
The Center for Neurocognitive Excellence integrates assessments, counseling, and neurofeedback to best identify the source of your stress and effectively treat it so that we can reduce the intensity, duration, and frequency of your most stressful moments. We are experts at integrating approaches to best suit your needs. Listening and working with you is a huge source of joy!
(202) 499-6780 View (202) 499-6780
Photo of Brooke Baker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Brooke Baker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
I specialize in ADHD, anxiety, navigating relationships and the intersection of these three.
Have you been feeling like there must be more to this life than the status quo? My ideal client is someone who wants to take their approach to living a good life to the next level. If you are someone who has a stable and secure life and yet you still feel unfulfilled, I would very likely be a good fit for you. I help people learn how to unlock their potential so they can perform better; have more energy; stay connected to their goals; pursue a more satisfying career; improve their relationships; have more success with dating (as well as being happy while single); and establish sustainable healthy habits - just to name a few.
I specialize in ADHD, anxiety, navigating relationships and the intersection of these three.
Have you been feeling like there must be more to this life than the status quo? My ideal client is someone who wants to take their approach to living a good life to the next level. If you are someone who has a stable and secure life and yet you still feel unfulfilled, I would very likely be a good fit for you. I help people learn how to unlock their potential so they can perform better; have more energy; stay connected to their goals; pursue a more satisfying career; improve their relationships; have more success with dating (as well as being happy while single); and establish sustainable healthy habits - just to name a few.
(202) 471-1954 View (202) 471-1954
Photo of Amelia Bigesby—Kids & Adults. Build coping skills., Counselor in Washington, DC
Amelia Bigesby—Kids & Adults. Build coping skills.
Counselor, MS, LGPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20005  (Online Only)
Do you or your child struggle with anxiety, depression, or ADHD? Do you have difficulty building healthy relationships or experience intrusive thoughts? In therapy, you can build coping skills and get practical help for anxiety, self-esteem, depression, relationships, and more. Difficult experiences in your past or mental health struggles in the present don't have to dictate your future. We will work to equip you with the internal resources that you need to thrive. Reach out to me today to learn more about therapy. You can develop new thinking patterns and behaviors that promote positive coping. I am looking forward to helping!
Do you or your child struggle with anxiety, depression, or ADHD? Do you have difficulty building healthy relationships or experience intrusive thoughts? In therapy, you can build coping skills and get practical help for anxiety, self-esteem, depression, relationships, and more. Difficult experiences in your past or mental health struggles in the present don't have to dictate your future. We will work to equip you with the internal resources that you need to thrive. Reach out to me today to learn more about therapy. You can develop new thinking patterns and behaviors that promote positive coping. I am looking forward to helping!
(202) 978-6206 View (202) 978-6206
Photo of Adult ADHD Center of Washington, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Adult ADHD Center of Washington
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
Identified as "Top Therapists" treating ADHD by "Washingtonian" magazine. Our focus and expertise is helping you recognize if you have adult ADHD and learn the most effective strategies for dealing with ADHD in your work, home, and in relationships. Our approach is positive and based on your unique set of strengths and talents. We are committed to helping you achieve personal goals that no longer need to be out of your reach.
Identified as "Top Therapists" treating ADHD by "Washingtonian" magazine. Our focus and expertise is helping you recognize if you have adult ADHD and learn the most effective strategies for dealing with ADHD in your work, home, and in relationships. Our approach is positive and based on your unique set of strengths and talents. We are committed to helping you achieve personal goals that no longer need to be out of your reach.
(202) 232-3766 View (202) 232-3766
Photo of David A. Heilman, Psychologist in Washington, DC
David A. Heilman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
26 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
Waitlist for new clients
While I have enjoyed working effectively with a wide variety of individuals, I specialize in LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapy, ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, and couples/relationship challenges.
One of the hardest parts of the therapeutic process is choosing the right therapist for you, and I hope to join you on your journey towards greater self-understanding, compassion, and insight. Many people come to therapy after experiencing emotional distress that has led them to feel overwhelmed and as though they have lost direction in, and control of, their life. In a safe and non-judgmental space, I work collaboratively with my clients to explore ways in which they can effectively regain a sense of empowerment, meaning, and control in their lives.
While I have enjoyed working effectively with a wide variety of individuals, I specialize in LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapy, ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, and couples/relationship challenges.
One of the hardest parts of the therapeutic process is choosing the right therapist for you, and I hope to join you on your journey towards greater self-understanding, compassion, and insight. Many people come to therapy after experiencing emotional distress that has led them to feel overwhelmed and as though they have lost direction in, and control of, their life. In a safe and non-judgmental space, I work collaboratively with my clients to explore ways in which they can effectively regain a sense of empowerment, meaning, and control in their lives.
(202) 831-7813 View (202) 831-7813
Photo of Dr. Francine Baffa, LCSW — Balance, Focus, Support, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Dr. Francine Baffa, LCSW — Balance, Focus, Support
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, BCBA-D
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20005
Do you feel stuck? Are external obstacles, or your own internal fears, holding you back from living a full and meaningful life? In therapy, you can grow, heal, and move forward. Anxiety, depression, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder are real challenges. You can expect to build lifelong coping skills that enable you to reach your goals and experience sustained healing. You can feel calmer, more balanced, more motivated, and more focused. You can learn to build and sustain healthier and more satisfying relationships with family, work colleagues, and romantic partners. Contact me today. I am looking forward to hearing your story.
Do you feel stuck? Are external obstacles, or your own internal fears, holding you back from living a full and meaningful life? In therapy, you can grow, heal, and move forward. Anxiety, depression, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder are real challenges. You can expect to build lifelong coping skills that enable you to reach your goals and experience sustained healing. You can feel calmer, more balanced, more motivated, and more focused. You can learn to build and sustain healthier and more satisfying relationships with family, work colleagues, and romantic partners. Contact me today. I am looking forward to hearing your story.
(703) 782-3846 View (703) 782-3846
Photo of Conise Shaw, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Conise Shaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Greetings! My name is Conise and I am a psychotherapist at Revo Well. We are a tribe of extraordinary clinicians dedicated to REVOlutionizing WELLness in the BIPOC community. My therapeutic approach is centered around creating safe and affirming healing spaces. I strive to provide the perfect balance of professionalism and utilization of strong clinical skills while also being completely down to earth and non-judgmental. I specialize in working with youth and young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, and ADHD, as well as individuals with a history of trauma.
Greetings! My name is Conise and I am a psychotherapist at Revo Well. We are a tribe of extraordinary clinicians dedicated to REVOlutionizing WELLness in the BIPOC community. My therapeutic approach is centered around creating safe and affirming healing spaces. I strive to provide the perfect balance of professionalism and utilization of strong clinical skills while also being completely down to earth and non-judgmental. I specialize in working with youth and young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, and ADHD, as well as individuals with a history of trauma.
(202) 946-3518 View (202) 946-3518
Photo of Rebecca Tolbert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Rebecca Tolbert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20019
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in ADHD, and I understand how executive functioning issues can impact every area of life.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Maybe the pandemic resurfaced old issues and messed with your coping strategies. Maybe reintegrating into the world has been harder than you expected. If you already struggled with focus, motivation, and organization, all of these issues can pile on top of each other. You want to feel grounded and joyful, with a life that fits and feels like your own... not one you have to shove yourself into. You want your relationships to thrive. You deserve to wake up in the morning and feel ready and excited for the day ahead.
I specialize in ADHD, and I understand how executive functioning issues can impact every area of life.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Maybe the pandemic resurfaced old issues and messed with your coping strategies. Maybe reintegrating into the world has been harder than you expected. If you already struggled with focus, motivation, and organization, all of these issues can pile on top of each other. You want to feel grounded and joyful, with a life that fits and feels like your own... not one you have to shove yourself into. You want your relationships to thrive. You deserve to wake up in the morning and feel ready and excited for the day ahead.
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Photo of Monica Hammock, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Monica Hammock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
Those challenges may be acute crisis, anxiety, depression, ADHD and other executive functioning difficulties, & peak performers - neurofeedback assists the brain to be more efficient no matter what the challenge.
I foster a caring and nurturing approach, utilizing a strengths-based perspective, which allows for personal strengths to aid in recovery & empowerment of each individual. As a result, treatment promotes hope through exploration of precedent successes - serving as the foundation for growth and change. With neurofeedback, the brain relaxes, calming fear and reactivity. This interrupts emotionally based patterns of reactivity in the brain faster than we are consciously aware of them. By incorporating neurofeedback into the psychotherapy session, clients see results faster than psychotherapy alone. My clinical services are designed to provide insight, learning opportunities, & encourage commitment to life improvements.
Those challenges may be acute crisis, anxiety, depression, ADHD and other executive functioning difficulties, & peak performers - neurofeedback assists the brain to be more efficient no matter what the challenge.
I foster a caring and nurturing approach, utilizing a strengths-based perspective, which allows for personal strengths to aid in recovery & empowerment of each individual. As a result, treatment promotes hope through exploration of precedent successes - serving as the foundation for growth and change. With neurofeedback, the brain relaxes, calming fear and reactivity. This interrupts emotionally based patterns of reactivity in the brain faster than we are consciously aware of them. By incorporating neurofeedback into the psychotherapy session, clients see results faster than psychotherapy alone. My clinical services are designed to provide insight, learning opportunities, & encourage commitment to life improvements.
(202) 759-8307 View (202) 759-8307
Photo of Evan Tokarz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Evan Tokarz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002  (Online Only)
In addition to extensive experience with those working with anxiety, depression, and relationship problems, I possess experience in working with ADHD, Asperger's (HFA), and LGBTQIA+ individuals, as well as those identifying as neurodivergent/neurospicy more broadly.
Licensed in DC, FL, AZ. If you're grappling with challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, or issues in your relationships, you're not alone. Sometimes, we get caught in repetitive patterns that seem insurmountable. Through individual therapy, I offer strategies to help you break free from these cycles by talking through patterns in your life in an attempt to identify root issues. My goal is to empower you with the tools you need to enhance self-awareness, boost confidence, and take actions that foster the personal growth you rightfully deserve.
In addition to extensive experience with those working with anxiety, depression, and relationship problems, I possess experience in working with ADHD, Asperger's (HFA), and LGBTQIA+ individuals, as well as those identifying as neurodivergent/neurospicy more broadly.
Licensed in DC, FL, AZ. If you're grappling with challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, or issues in your relationships, you're not alone. Sometimes, we get caught in repetitive patterns that seem insurmountable. Through individual therapy, I offer strategies to help you break free from these cycles by talking through patterns in your life in an attempt to identify root issues. My goal is to empower you with the tools you need to enhance self-awareness, boost confidence, and take actions that foster the personal growth you rightfully deserve.
(202) 991-3128 View (202) 991-3128
Photo of Counseling Center of DC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Counseling Center of DC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016  (Online Only)
Have you been diagnosed with ADHD or wondered if you might have ADHD? Do you feel like you are fighting through a fog that often hinders you from achieving your goals at work, school, or home? Are you tired of struggling to get important work done and apps and to-do lists are not helping as much as they used to? Hello, my name is Kathleen Fort LICSW, LCSW and I am here to help. I am a psychotherapist with over twenty-five years of experience specializing in working with adults who have ADHD, think they might have ADHD, or adults who simply struggle with avoidance, procrastination, anxiety and work/life balance.
Have you been diagnosed with ADHD or wondered if you might have ADHD? Do you feel like you are fighting through a fog that often hinders you from achieving your goals at work, school, or home? Are you tired of struggling to get important work done and apps and to-do lists are not helping as much as they used to? Hello, my name is Kathleen Fort LICSW, LCSW and I am here to help. I am a psychotherapist with over twenty-five years of experience specializing in working with adults who have ADHD, think they might have ADHD, or adults who simply struggle with avoidance, procrastination, anxiety and work/life balance.
(217) 819-0281 View (217) 819-0281
Photo of Jessica Sandham Swope, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Jessica Sandham Swope
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
For adults and college students who struggle with inattention and procrastination, including those with ADHD, I also offer a structured, goal-oriented "coaching" intervention aimed to keep clients motivated, organized, and on track.
I strive to provide a collaborative and supportive working space for individual clients or couples with a range of presenting concerns. My clients tell me that they appreciate my warmth and practicality, as well as my willingness to provide an individualized treatment plan tailored to their specific needs. I believe that most clients' struggles-be they with depression, anxiety, attentional difficulties, or relationship issues-are born of and maintained by a range of factors. These factors may include past experiences, family history, biology, or unhelpful patterns of thinking.
For adults and college students who struggle with inattention and procrastination, including those with ADHD, I also offer a structured, goal-oriented "coaching" intervention aimed to keep clients motivated, organized, and on track.
I strive to provide a collaborative and supportive working space for individual clients or couples with a range of presenting concerns. My clients tell me that they appreciate my warmth and practicality, as well as my willingness to provide an individualized treatment plan tailored to their specific needs. I believe that most clients' struggles-be they with depression, anxiety, attentional difficulties, or relationship issues-are born of and maintained by a range of factors. These factors may include past experiences, family history, biology, or unhelpful patterns of thinking.
(202) 972-2494 View (202) 972-2494
Photo of Cheryl Shapiro, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Cheryl Shapiro
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in assessment for children and adolescents. I conduct independent school admissions testing, as well as more comprehensive psychoeducational evaluations to assess for learning disorders, ADHD, and developmental delay. The goal of my evaluations is to identify my client's learning style and understand the individual as a whole person. I strive to provide feedback that is thorough, objective, well-reasoned, and understandable. My written reports include straightforward results and practical, solution-focused recommendations for parents and teachers. These reports are often used for educational planning and to request academic support and accommodations.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in assessment for children and adolescents. I conduct independent school admissions testing, as well as more comprehensive psychoeducational evaluations to assess for learning disorders, ADHD, and developmental delay. The goal of my evaluations is to identify my client's learning style and understand the individual as a whole person. I strive to provide feedback that is thorough, objective, well-reasoned, and understandable. My written reports include straightforward results and practical, solution-focused recommendations for parents and teachers. These reports are often used for educational planning and to request academic support and accommodations.
(202) 796-7068 View (202) 796-7068
Photo of Hayley Gould, Counselor in Washington, DC
Hayley Gould
Counselor, LPC, MS/EdS
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008  (Online Only)
Eating disorders can be all encompassing and can start to take over so many different aspects of your life. It becomes hard to do anything without hearing the eating disorder’s disapproving voice in your head making comments about your food intake, your body, and most painfully, who you are as a person. This voice is not you. We can work together to help you fight back and regain your identity. You do not need to have an eating disorder for us to work together, I also work with those struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, life transitions, trauma, relationships, and identity.
Eating disorders can be all encompassing and can start to take over so many different aspects of your life. It becomes hard to do anything without hearing the eating disorder’s disapproving voice in your head making comments about your food intake, your body, and most painfully, who you are as a person. This voice is not you. We can work together to help you fight back and regain your identity. You do not need to have an eating disorder for us to work together, I also work with those struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, life transitions, trauma, relationships, and identity.
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Photo of Christina Fals, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Christina Fals
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
I am a bilingual Hispanic American Licensed Clinical Social Worker, offering virtual counseling services in Washington D.C., Maryland, and Puerto Rico. With a holistic approach to mental health, I provide personalized treatment for a diverse range of challenges. My focus is on offering compassionate support to individuals navigating life's obstacles. I specialize in helping clients with disruptive behaviors, adjustment difficulties, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, ADHD, gender identity exploration, and provide affirming care for LGBTQ individuals.
I am a bilingual Hispanic American Licensed Clinical Social Worker, offering virtual counseling services in Washington D.C., Maryland, and Puerto Rico. With a holistic approach to mental health, I provide personalized treatment for a diverse range of challenges. My focus is on offering compassionate support to individuals navigating life's obstacles. I specialize in helping clients with disruptive behaviors, adjustment difficulties, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, ADHD, gender identity exploration, and provide affirming care for LGBTQ individuals.
(202) 915-1422 View (202) 915-1422
Photo of Victoria Rivera, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Victoria Rivera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief/loss, trauma, chronic medical issues or any of the other issues that frequently plague our community? Is it that you can't put a finger on it, but just know something isn't right.
Greetings! My name is Victoria Rivera and I am a psychotherapist at Revo Well. We are a tribe of extraordinary clinicians dedicated to REVOlutionizing WELLness in the BIPOC community. As a therapist, providing a safe space and offering sound clinical services to members of the community of color is of the utmost importance to me. I enjoy working with individuals (adults and adolescents alike) who want to be their best selves; individuals who refuse to allow life challenges and symptoms associated with mental illness get the best of them.
Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief/loss, trauma, chronic medical issues or any of the other issues that frequently plague our community? Is it that you can't put a finger on it, but just know something isn't right.
Greetings! My name is Victoria Rivera and I am a psychotherapist at Revo Well. We are a tribe of extraordinary clinicians dedicated to REVOlutionizing WELLness in the BIPOC community. As a therapist, providing a safe space and offering sound clinical services to members of the community of color is of the utmost importance to me. I enjoy working with individuals (adults and adolescents alike) who want to be their best selves; individuals who refuse to allow life challenges and symptoms associated with mental illness get the best of them.
(202) 688-2073 View (202) 688-2073
Photo of Megan Goldberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Megan Goldberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
Are you seeking support to address thoughts, feelings, or actions that no longer serve you? I can help you manage anxiety, ADHD, relationship challenges, or your relationship with substances with thoughtfulness and kindness. Together we can tackle the hard questions with balance and levity. Life is filled with challenges and it's crucial to have a toolbox of coping strategies to navigate them successfully. I work with individuals and couples to also manage relationship issues, life transitions, and work and academic stress throughout the lifespan. Together we can build a balanced lifestyle, self-awareness, and personal growth.
Are you seeking support to address thoughts, feelings, or actions that no longer serve you? I can help you manage anxiety, ADHD, relationship challenges, or your relationship with substances with thoughtfulness and kindness. Together we can tackle the hard questions with balance and levity. Life is filled with challenges and it's crucial to have a toolbox of coping strategies to navigate them successfully. I work with individuals and couples to also manage relationship issues, life transitions, and work and academic stress throughout the lifespan. Together we can build a balanced lifestyle, self-awareness, and personal growth.
(202) 929-0995 View (202) 929-0995
Photo of Katrina Wallace, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Katrina Wallace
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
Are you experiencing marriage problems, communication problems, anxiety, unexplainable sadness, depression, or stress? Do you struggle with low self-esteem, low self-worth, ADHD related issues or are you finding it difficult to navigate life transitions. Finding a therapist could feel like a daunting task but seeking help is the first step to overcoming life’s challenges. I have over 19 years of combined experience providing culturally sensitive and trauma informed counseling to individuals, couples, and families. I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families in a collaborative way to meet the needs of the client.
Are you experiencing marriage problems, communication problems, anxiety, unexplainable sadness, depression, or stress? Do you struggle with low self-esteem, low self-worth, ADHD related issues or are you finding it difficult to navigate life transitions. Finding a therapist could feel like a daunting task but seeking help is the first step to overcoming life’s challenges. I have over 19 years of combined experience providing culturally sensitive and trauma informed counseling to individuals, couples, and families. I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families in a collaborative way to meet the needs of the client.
(202) 410-8654 View (202) 410-8654
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.