ADHD-Affirming Therapy
Welcome
Welcome to a place where understanding and supporting individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is our mission.
Here, we don't just recognize ADHD; we celebrate the unique strengths and abilities that come with it.
Our approach is simple yet profound:
to provide support without altering the fundamental essence of who you are.
We believe in a comprehensive approach to treatment of ADHD. This includes:
Treatment for ADHD is unique for every one of our clients. Some individuals respond better to some approaches than others. Our clinicians will support you as you navigate your journey to becoming your best self.
ADHD Basics
Understanding ADHD
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by symptoms like inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. However, it's much more than that. It's a way of experiencing the world in a vibrant, intense, and often overwhelming way.
Unfortunately, ADHD is often misunderstood, leading to misconceptions and stereotypes. We aim to dispel these myths and highlight the incredible potential within each individual with ADHD.
Principles of ADHD-Affirming Therapy
At the heart of our therapy is a deep respect for neurodiversity. We believe that each person's ADHD experience is unique, and rather than focusing on deficits, we choose to focus on strengths and positive attributes. Our therapy offers a safe, non-judgmental space where individuals can explore their experiences and challenges freely. We see ADHD not as a disorder to be fixed but as a part of your identity to be understood and embraced.
ADHD-Affirming Therapy: Embracing Neurodiversity
Welcome to a place where understanding and supporting individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is our mission. Here, we don't just recognize ADHD; we celebrate the unique strengths and abilities that come with it. Our approach is simple yet profound: to provide support without altering the fundamental essence of who you are.
Cognitive Behavioral
Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is designed to:
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change these negative patterns of thinking, and
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change the way a patient feels about one's self, abilities, and future.
At the foundation of CBT is the concept of cognitive restructuring. Simply put, this is the recognition that cognitions (thoughts) can lead to emotional difficulties. Automatic thoughts are spontaneous interpretations of events. These thoughts appear without our immediate awareness but can come to light if we pause and consider what we are thinking.
Unfortunately, our thoughts are susceptible to distortion, such as unfounded assumptions about yourself (or others), a situation, or the future. Such unhealthy internal dialogs hinder our ability to work toward an intended goal. Instead, they tend to lead to confused and frustrating thoughts and feelings. CBT helps you recognize the distortions and use your mind to reframe how you think and act.
How Does CBT Help People with ADHD?
There are two main ways that CBT helps adults with ADHD.
1. Enhance Executive Function
CBT has been specifically tailored for adults with ADHD in order to help adults overcome difficulties in everyday executive functions. This usually takes the form of:
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effective manage time,
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organize and plan in the short term and the long term,
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enhance emotional self-regulation and impulse control, and
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stress management.
2. Treat Anxiety and Depression
Furthermore, because ADHD extracts a daily toll on life, those with ADHD are more likely to also suffer from anxiety (51% of those with ADHD also had anxiety) and depressive disorders (32% of those with ADHD also had depression). Since CBT is also very effective for these disorders, we integrate treatment of anxiety and depression into our overall approach.
CBT and Medication
We believe that CBT and medication can work hand-in-hand and reinforce each other...
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Medication helps to control the core symptoms of distractibility, short attention span and impulsivity.
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CBT helps build the habits and skills needed for executive self-management and improves emotional and interpersonal self-regulation.
Mindfulness
The main tenants of Mindfulness include:
the practice of staying in the present moment, and
holding a non-judgmental attitude.
As mindfulness helps you become aware of your emotional triggers and responses, you will feel more in control, giving you the freedom to respond intentionally and skillfully.
How does someone with ADHD practice Mindfulness?!
Due to their challenges in attention and being still, Mindfulness practices must be modified for those with ADHD.
Some examples of such modifications include:
shorter stillness sessions,
frequent intervals between movement and stillness,
practicing mindfulness while they engage with every day activities such as making your bed and eating,
integrating mindfulness into enjoyable activities - hiking, biking, singing or playing a game,
use of visual aids and art (such as paint a picture of a blue sky to represent the clarity of awareness)
use movement activities, such as yoga or specific breathing exercises, to calm the nervous system in the body, and
teach a practice of a body scan during physical activities.
Nutrition, Sleep & Medications
Nutrition and Sleep
We know that many of clients struggle with sleep (mostly trouble falling asleep) and with an unbalanced diet. There is a mounting body of evidence that nutrition and sleep are essential to a comprehensive treatment plan for ADHD.
We do not adhere to any specific plan (such as the Feingold Diet); however, we work closely with your team of medical professionals to provide the EMOTIONAL and PSYCHOLOGICAL support that you need to follow whatever approach fits best for you.
Medications
Medications are often an essential component of your ADHD treatment.
Unfortunately, they do not work the same way on all people with ADHD. Your doctor will work together with you to determine which medication is right for you. Over time, you will figure out the ideal dose and schedule to take your meds. It usually takes a few months to find the best combination for you.
Your medication will typically fall into one of the following categories:
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Stimulants.
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Focus your thoughts and ignore distractions.
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Stimulants work for 70% to 80% of people.
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Treat moderate and severe ADHD.
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They may be helpful for children, teens, and adults who have a hard time at school, work, or home.
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Non-stimulants.
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In cases where stimulants don’t work or cause unpleasant side effects, non-stimulants might help.
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These medications can improve symptoms like concentration and impulse control.
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Antidepressants.
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You may also be given an anti-depressant if you are also struggling with depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
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Next Step
We can not emphasize enough that ADHD is not a condition to be cured but rather a unique aspect of your personality to be understood and valued.
We would like to join you in celebrating your diverse experiences with ADHD.
Your journey is personal, and we're here to support you every step of the way.
Whether you're looking to get started with an in-depth assessment and therapy or you would just like to schedule a free consult to just talk, we are only one click away.
Just fill out our contact form to take the fifirst step towards embracing your neurodiversity.