Written by Luisa Kos
Table of contents
Understanding ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)
ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a common mental health condition that affects how people think, learn, and behave. It is often misunderstood and can present itself in different ways depending on the individual. People with ADHD may experience persistent symptoms, such as difficulty focusing, controlling impulses, or regulating their mood, and these symptoms can have a significant impact on both children and adults, especially in daily life.
It’s important to remember that ADHD is not a reflection of intelligence or ability. With the right treatment and support, individuals with ADHD can manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives. The Therapist Finder offers a range of ADHD services, connecting you with qualified therapists who can provide the support and therapy you need.
What is ADHD
- Maintaining attention on tasks
- Following instructions or completing projects
- Impulse control and emotional regulation
- Restlessness or excessive movement
- Forgetfulness and time management
ADHD Assessment - Getting An ADHD Diagnosis
If you suspect that you or a loved one may have ADHD, getting an accurate diagnosis is the first step toward receiving the appropriate mental health support. A diagnosis of ADHD is made based on a comprehensive evaluation of the individual’s medical history, a review of their symptoms, and sometimes, behavioural assessments. Diagnosing ADHD involves considering other mental health conditions that may share similar traits, such as mood disorders or oppositional defiant disorder. Here’s what you should know:
- The assessment process may involve a clinical interview to understand your medical history and personal experiences.
- Questionnaires and rating scales, often completed by the individual and caregivers, help gauge the severity of symptoms.
- Observing the individual’s behaviour in different environments may help highlight inattentive symptoms or impulsive symptoms that are key indicators of ADHD.
Once a diagnosis is made, treatment options, including behavioural interventions, can be explored to manage ADHD symptoms and improve quality of life. Early diagnosis is essential to ensure timely support and intervention, which can significantly improve an individual’s overall development.
Children & ADHD
Children with ADHD often face unique challenges, both at home and at school. They may struggle with following instructions, paying attention in class, and managing their impulses. These difficulties can lead to frustration, which may manifest as low self-esteem. It’s important for parents to seek early diagnosis, as behavioural interventions and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can significantly improve a child’s ability to manage their symptoms.
Parents should also consider enrolling their child in support groups to connect with other families facing similar challenges. ADHD support groups can offer helpful strategies and emotional support to both children and their families. These groups also encourage sharing experiences and resources, ensuring that children don’t have to navigate their mental health condition alone.
Adults & ADHD
ADHD doesn’t just affect children; it can persist into adulthood. Adults with ADHD may struggle with maintaining focus at work, managing time, or regulating their emotions, which can lead to feelings of inadequacy and poor self-esteem. Additionally, adults with ADHD may be more prone to sleep disorders, which can exacerbate symptoms. ADHD can also present with oppositional defiant disorder or conduct disorder, complicating its diagnosis and treatment.
Treatment for adults with ADHD often involves a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is particularly effective in addressing mood disorders and helping individuals create structure and routine in their lives. These strategies, along with ongoing mental health support, can help adults with ADHD thrive in both their personal and professional lives.
Therapies For ADHD Symptoms
Therapy plays an important role in managing ADHD. It helps individuals develop the necessary skills to cope with inattentive symptoms, impulsivity, and restlessness. Behavioural interventions, such as CBT, can help individuals gain better control over their emotions and behaviours. Therapies can also address mood disorders that often accompany ADHD, such as anxiety or depression.
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is effective in helping individuals change negative thought patterns that affect their behaviour.
- Occupational therapy can provide sensory integration support and help with daily life tasks.
- Speech and language therapy is useful for individuals who struggle with communication and social skills.
By seeking appropriate therapy, individuals with ADHD can better manage their condition and lead more balanced lives.
Medication For ADHD
Medication is often a key component of ADHD treatment, particularly for individuals with moderate to severe symptoms. Stimulant medications are commonly prescribed to help manage impulsive symptoms and improve focus. However, it’s important to note that medication should always be used in combination with behavioural interventions, rather than as a sole treatment.
- Stimulants such as methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine are effective in managing focus and impulse control.
- Non-stimulant medications, such as atomoxetine, are an option for individuals who experience side effects from stimulants.
- Medications for ADHD are often prescribed alongside treatment for co-occurring mental health conditions, such as mood disorders or anxiety.
Medication can be highly effective in managing ADHD symptoms, but it should always be carefully monitored by a healthcare provider to ensure its efficacy and minimise potential side effects.
Self-Help Strategies For ADHD
While therapy and medication are essential for treating ADHD, individuals can also benefit from self-help strategies. By creating structure and routines, individuals with ADHD can reduce the chaos that often leads to careless mistakes and impulsive behaviour. These strategies can empower individuals to take control of their symptoms and improve their daily functioning.
- Establishing consistent routines can help with time management and reduce forgetfulness.
- Using visual aids, such as planners or reminders, can support organisation and task completion.
- Practising mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing, can help manage emotional regulation.
Implementing these strategies can complement professional treatment and improve quality of life for individuals with ADHD.
Get The Support You Need With The Therapist Finder
If you’re struggling with ADHD, don’t navigate this journey alone. The Therapist Finder connects you with experienced professionals who understand ADHD and are qualified to help. Whether you’re seeking therapy for yourself or your child, our directory offers a range of specialists who can provide tailored support. Explore therapists specialising in ADHD services in your area today and find the help you need to manage your symptoms and thrive.
Therapists who can help with ADHD
Ruth Lynch
With over 7 years experience as an integrative Cognitive Behavioural Therapist, my approach is practical and structured, helping you understand how thoughts, beliefs, and reactions can lead to anxiety, low mood, and low confidence — and, importantly, how to change them.
Matt Reid
BACP-accredited counsellor and clinical supervisor based at Health Hub London in Herne Hill, South London, offering both in-person and online sessions. He holds a Diploma in Clinical Supervision from The Awareness Centre (2023) and a Post-Qualification Certificate in Body Psychotherapy. In addition to his individual counselling practice, Matt provides supervision for trainee therapists and qualified counsellors, and is a registered therapist with AXA and Aviva insurance. He brings a grounded, integrative approach informed by body-awareness, and works with adults across a range of emotional and psychological concerns.
Pedro Garcia
I am a BACP-registered counsellor offering therapy in English and Spanish, both online and in person from rooms in **London Bridge (SE1) and Greenwich (SE10)**. I provide **trauma-informed, diversity-affirming counselling** for adults and young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, emotional overwhelm, ADHD, low self-esteem, and questions around identity, relationships, and life direction. My work is based on the idea that when we begin to understand our story, what shaped us and why certain patterns repeat, we can start to relate to ourselves with greater clarity and compassion. I offer a thoughtful, non-judgemental space where you can explore your experiences at your own pace and find steadier ways of coping and moving forward.
Steve Altman
I am a UKCP-accredited psychotherapist with a background in frontline mental health support, including work as a Samaritan, peer support worker, and co-ordinator of a suicide-prevention respite sanctuary. I have extensive experience supporting people with trauma, emotional distress, and suicidal thoughts. This work has shaped a calm, compassionate way of working that helps people reconnect with meaning, creativity, and their capacity for life.
James Andrewes
I am an HCPC-registered counselling psychologist with ten years’ experience across a range of NHS mental health settings. My work is grounded in research evidence and a strong focus on the therapeutic relationship, and I bring warmth, honesty, and appropriate challenge to the process. I use a pluralistic approach, drawing from person-centred, psychodynamic, CBT, and systemic therapies, and tailor the work to each person or couple’s needs.
Lily Von Kalbach
I’m a UKCP-accredited therapist with an MA and Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy. I use integrative approaches in my practice, and can draw on creative techniques, such as dream work, IFS, meditation, archetypal psychology, shadow work, and visualisations to empower and heal the disquieted mind, body and spirit. Prior to being a therapist, I worked as an anthropologist, researcher and in the creatice arts. I have an affinity for working with clients who are deep thinkers, feel alienated in life, and have a rich, complex inner life that they would like to understand and learn how to integrate better.
Julia Mair
I specialise in working with anxiety. During our sessions we will explore what lies beneath your anxiety to join the dots between your thoughts and feelings so that you can move forward. I trained for four years at The Minster Centre in London, one of the leading psychotherapy schools in the UK. As well as working in private practice, I have worked for two community-based counselling services in West London. I am committed to practising in a sensitive, thoughtful, and compassionate way. I respect the different backgrounds of my clients and I am aware of the social, cultural, and structural issues involved in the difficulties we face as individuals.
Mike Green
I’ve been counselling individuals and couples, from 18 to 88, with a diverse range of backgrounds, challenges and needs. I served my initial client hours working for Mind UK whilst training to become a qualified counsellor, and on completion of training I set up my own private practice, which I have been running now for over 8 years. I like to work with a range of issues from Anxiety, Depression, Bereavement, Stress, Self-Esteem, Trauma, this keeps the work interesting, challenging and keeps me on my toes. I continue to enjoy learning about human psychology, behaviour and mental health, which I find both intriguing and helpful in my work.
Roland Oliver
BACP-Accredited and UKCP-registered Mindfulness-based Core Process Psychotherapist based in Clapham Common, London SW4. He holds an MA in Mindfulness-based Core Process Psychotherapy from the Karuna Institute in Devon, and has been in practice for over 14 years, including two years working with the NHS Counselling Service. His work draws on both psychodynamic and mindfulness-based approaches, with a particular focus on developmental trauma — including emotional neglect, childhood experiences of unsafety, and the lasting impact of difficult early relationships. He is a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and the Association of Core Process Psychotherapy (ACPP), and offers therapy on a flexible, ability-to-pay basis.
Valerija But
I have extensive work experience in health/community settings and over 15 years in private practice. Approaches I draw from in my work include, Psychoanalytic, Existential Psychotherapy and Transactional Analysis.
Is There Any ADHD Treatment?
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to treating ADHD. Each individual’s treatment plan should be personalised to meet their specific needs. In addition to therapy and medication, other forms of support may include lifestyle changes and involvement in support groups. For those with persistent symptoms, a combination of treatment options may be necessary to address the different aspects of ADHD.
Early intervention and treatment are essential to managing ADHD successfully. The right support, when provided early, can reduce the impact of ADHD on an individual’s life, allowing them to reach their full potential.
Supporting Children and Adults With ADHD
Supporting both children and adults with ADHD requires a holistic approach, considering all aspects of their mental health. This includes behavioural interventions, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments. By addressing not just the symptoms but also the underlying emotional challenges, individuals with ADHD can experience long-term improvements in their daily functioning.
For children, involving parents and caregivers in the treatment process can ensure that the strategies developed are implemented consistently at home. For adults, therapy and support groups can provide ongoing mental health support, helping them manage their symptoms in a way that fits with their lifestyle.
At The Therapist Finder, we can also help you find therapists who specialise in multiple disciplines – from ADHD & autism to anxiety and depression, getting the treatment you need has never been easier.
Need Help? Contact The Therapist Finder Now
If you or a loved one is struggling with ADHD, The Therapist Finder can help you connect with professionals who specialise in ADHD support. Browse our directory to find therapists who can provide the help and guidance you need. Reach out today and take the first step toward managing your ADHD symptoms and living a fulfilling life. Our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way.