Psychotherapy for ADHD

ADHD

“Possibilities”

ADHD

Are you looking for ADHD Psychotherapy. As a Toronto Registered Psychotherapist I have compiled some information that I hope will be helpful.  It has been widely accepted that attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder commonly referred to as ADHD persists into adulthood.  Individuals with a diagnosis of ADHD differ from each other in terms of their core symptom combinations, level of impairment, and other accompanying disorders such as depression, anxiety, OCD, and substance abuse particularly with cannabis and alcohol.

In adults the main symptoms are inattention and impulsivity. Many high-functioning individuals with ADD/ADHD may bear feelings of poor self-worth. They may see themselves as failures and feel that they constantly let others down. Many years of underachievement can create a dysfunctional self-image causing psychological suffering, i.e. feelings of anxiety, anger, and depression in which psychological intervention may be warranted.

Adults with ADD/ADHD are often bored with tedious, repetitive tasks. They may also have trouble with planning and organization. Procrastination is common. Impulsivity may lead to frequent job changes, troubled romantic relationships, financial problems and a tendency to interrupt others.

Current Research on ADHD

Toronto ADHD Psychotherapy

Toronto ADHD Psychotherapist

Self-knowledge is necessary in order to learn more effective coping strategies and develop self-mastery. Treatment often involves teaching the individual to structure his or her life, while allowing for some spontaneity. Time management and planning are important skills. Daily planners and task lists are beneficial. Large tasks can be broken down into more manageable, smaller steps so that completing each part of the task provides a sense of accomplishment.

As the client begins to have small successes with the new ability to bring organization out of the complexities of life, he or she will start to develop a better sense of self and a greater appreciation of one’s self.

Medication treats the acute symptoms of the disease, but does little affect the long-term prognosis if the medication is stopped. Non-pharmacological methods of treating ADHD, like psychotherapy, take longer to work, but produce long-term changes in behaviour.

Toronto ADHD Psychotherapist

Toronto ADHD Psychotherapy

Psychoeducation for ADHD

Exercising is one of the easiest and most effective ways to reduce the symptoms of ADD/ADHD. Physical activity immediately boosts the brain’s dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin levels—all of which affect focus and attention.

Our focus will be on improving attentional skills, impulse control, better planning and organization, managing thoughts and feelings, learn to manage conflicts and develop better communication skills.

What you eat does have an effect on your mood, energy levels, and symptoms. Eating regularly is particularly important. Many people with ADD/ADHD eat erratically—often going without a meal for hours and then binging on whatever is around. This isn’t good for your symptoms of ADD/ADHD or your emotional and physical health.