ADHD Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Hollie Sobel, PhD, Psychologist
Hollie Sobel
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
She has expertise in the areas ADHD,anxiety, depression, autism, behavioral difficulties, and learning disorders.
Dr. Sobel received her doctorate in clinical psychology from the Illinois Institute of Technology, and completed a fellowship at the University of Chicago. Prior to launching PACT, she was a faculty member at the Family Institute at Northwestern University and Rush University Medical Center. She has specialization in conducting diagnostic, psychoeducational, and personality testing batteries to primarily children/adolescents with a variety of psychiatric and medical diagnoses. She also assists children and their families with school programming issues. Another area of clinical expertise is providing individual, family, and group psychotherapy. She has specialization in using researched-based cognitive-behavioral techniques
She has expertise in the areas ADHD,anxiety, depression, autism, behavioral difficulties, and learning disorders.
Dr. Sobel received her doctorate in clinical psychology from the Illinois Institute of Technology, and completed a fellowship at the University of Chicago. Prior to launching PACT, she was a faculty member at the Family Institute at Northwestern University and Rush University Medical Center. She has specialization in conducting diagnostic, psychoeducational, and personality testing batteries to primarily children/adolescents with a variety of psychiatric and medical diagnoses. She also assists children and their families with school programming issues. Another area of clinical expertise is providing individual, family, and group psychotherapy. She has specialization in using researched-based cognitive-behavioral techniques
(872) 244-6455 View (872) 244-6455
Photo of Alex Chiodo, LPC, NATC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alex Chiodo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NATC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Existential dread? Lacking motivation? Struggling to find purpose? ADHD? Autism? C-PTSD? Self harm? Suicidal ideations? Complicated childhood? People pleaser? Avoidant of conflict? Co-dependency? Do you have someone with Narcissistic traits in your life? Low self esteem or self worth? History of hospitalizations? If some of these resonate with you, then we may be a fit.
Existential dread? Lacking motivation? Struggling to find purpose? ADHD? Autism? C-PTSD? Self harm? Suicidal ideations? Complicated childhood? People pleaser? Avoidant of conflict? Co-dependency? Do you have someone with Narcissistic traits in your life? Low self esteem or self worth? History of hospitalizations? If some of these resonate with you, then we may be a fit.
(872) 814-7250 View (872) 814-7250
Photo of Amanda R Hensley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda R Hensley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60622  (Online Only)
This includes CBT for ADHD, DBT, ACT, and Polyvagal informed trauma approaches.
Hi. I’m Amanda and I’m a therapist. Living with the constant noise of anxiety can range from mildly irritating to terrifying; disrupting your ability to live the life you want. The constant struggle of powering through our emotions is draining and uninspiring. This is where I come in. We all want to live with a felt sense of health and wellbeing. Whether its chronic anxiety, trauma, difficult relationships, or ADHD I can help you work through these burdens and reclaim your sense of personal power, stillness, and connection.
This includes CBT for ADHD, DBT, ACT, and Polyvagal informed trauma approaches.
Hi. I’m Amanda and I’m a therapist. Living with the constant noise of anxiety can range from mildly irritating to terrifying; disrupting your ability to live the life you want. The constant struggle of powering through our emotions is draining and uninspiring. This is where I come in. We all want to live with a felt sense of health and wellbeing. Whether its chronic anxiety, trauma, difficult relationships, or ADHD I can help you work through these burdens and reclaim your sense of personal power, stillness, and connection.
(708) 740-5371 View (708) 740-5371
Photo of Craig Mead, LCSW, LCPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Craig Mead
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60661  (Online Only)
Whether you’re struggling with everyday stress, anxiety, burnout, depression or ADHD, change starts with taking positive, actionable steps toward creating the life you want.
I work with clients to find healthier perspectives and practical solutions for work stress, relationship problems, family conflicts, and everyday life problems. We'll work on moving forward and resolving feelings of anxiety, overwhelm, and paralysis. Therapy is a valuable opportunity to talk through and understand yourself and what drives you within. Your relationships with others will improve as you know and improve yourself and how you respond to your emotions. We'll work on overcoming paralysis and procrastination and begin building the life you want. Change the way you think and change your life
Whether you’re struggling with everyday stress, anxiety, burnout, depression or ADHD, change starts with taking positive, actionable steps toward creating the life you want.
I work with clients to find healthier perspectives and practical solutions for work stress, relationship problems, family conflicts, and everyday life problems. We'll work on moving forward and resolving feelings of anxiety, overwhelm, and paralysis. Therapy is a valuable opportunity to talk through and understand yourself and what drives you within. Your relationships with others will improve as you know and improve yourself and how you respond to your emotions. We'll work on overcoming paralysis and procrastination and begin building the life you want. Change the way you think and change your life
(872) 266-7600 View (872) 266-7600
Photo of Shannon Konecny - Shannon Konecny- Kind Mind Counseling PLLC, MA, LCPC, NCC
Shannon Konecny- Kind Mind Counseling PLLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60622  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
At Kind Mind Counseling PLLC, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and affirming care. My approach is tailored to address the unique needs of those with ADHD, Autism, Anxiety Disorders, Body Image, Perfectionism, and those navigating Life Transitions. My approach to therapy incorporates humor, warmth and authenticity to provide a safe and collaborative environment. Throughout our time together, my aim is to foster an authentic and transparent relationship, while also supporting you in recognizing patterns, overcoming challenges, and embracing opportunities for personal growth and self-acceptance.
At Kind Mind Counseling PLLC, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and affirming care. My approach is tailored to address the unique needs of those with ADHD, Autism, Anxiety Disorders, Body Image, Perfectionism, and those navigating Life Transitions. My approach to therapy incorporates humor, warmth and authenticity to provide a safe and collaborative environment. Throughout our time together, my aim is to foster an authentic and transparent relationship, while also supporting you in recognizing patterns, overcoming challenges, and embracing opportunities for personal growth and self-acceptance.
(312) 667-0727 View (312) 667-0727
Photo of David Chiha, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Chiha
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60618
I am passionate about working with adults who have recently received or learned of their ADHD diagnosis. I am here to help you understand your diagnosis and improve on your organization and executive functioning. It takes courage to face your challenges head on, and I want to congratulate you on taking this first step. I believe when you are better able to identify and understand what causes you to think and feel the way you do, you can make a shift in how you respond to stressors and obstacles in your day to day life.
I am passionate about working with adults who have recently received or learned of their ADHD diagnosis. I am here to help you understand your diagnosis and improve on your organization and executive functioning. It takes courage to face your challenges head on, and I want to congratulate you on taking this first step. I believe when you are better able to identify and understand what causes you to think and feel the way you do, you can make a shift in how you respond to stressors and obstacles in your day to day life.
(312) 313-6146 View (312) 313-6146
Photo of Heather Michele Reitsma - Michele Reitsma, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michele Reitsma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I currently see clients who are wanting to work through sexual trauma, sexual dysfunction, anxiety, ADHD/executive functioning challenges, Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs), and gender/sexual identity topics. I also work with clients in ethically non-monogamous relationship structures. I have experience working with folks in the kink community and am a sex-worker friendly clinician. I am a good fit for clients that appreciate structure, evidence-based approaches, and collaborative treatment plans that include homework/work outside of sessions.
I currently see clients who are wanting to work through sexual trauma, sexual dysfunction, anxiety, ADHD/executive functioning challenges, Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs), and gender/sexual identity topics. I also work with clients in ethically non-monogamous relationship structures. I have experience working with folks in the kink community and am a sex-worker friendly clinician. I am a good fit for clients that appreciate structure, evidence-based approaches, and collaborative treatment plans that include homework/work outside of sessions.
(773) 570-1425 View (773) 570-1425
Photo of Chris Williams, LCPC
Chris Williams
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As someone who has struggled with social anxiety in the past and has been diagnosed with ADHD, I know what it's like to sit on your side of the therapy room.
Do you find yourself struggling to connect with others? Do you find that anxiety, fear of judgement from others or symptoms of ADHD prevents you from meeting new people, creating deeper connections with acquaintances, finding a romantic partner, speaking your mind or attending social events altogether? Is it hard to show your real self in social situations or at work, so you "mask" or hide that part of yourself, because you find it difficult to accept who you are and criticize yourself often? Well, this doesn't have to be your experience forever.
As someone who has struggled with social anxiety in the past and has been diagnosed with ADHD, I know what it's like to sit on your side of the therapy room.
Do you find yourself struggling to connect with others? Do you find that anxiety, fear of judgement from others or symptoms of ADHD prevents you from meeting new people, creating deeper connections with acquaintances, finding a romantic partner, speaking your mind or attending social events altogether? Is it hard to show your real self in social situations or at work, so you "mask" or hide that part of yourself, because you find it difficult to accept who you are and criticize yourself often? Well, this doesn't have to be your experience forever.
(708) 773-4570 View (708) 773-4570
Photo of Kenneth Stratton, LCPC, CRC, Counselor
Kenneth Stratton
Counselor, LCPC, CRC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60603  (Online Only)
I have specialized training in Physical/Mental rehabilitation(TBI, Significant limb loss, Activities of Daily Living, Job replacement/development, etc), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, Mindfulness therapy, Couples therapy, Sex Therapy(Including sexual identity practices), Trauma based therapy, Grief counseling, and ADHD approaches.
I WANT TO HELP YOU REACH YOUR HIGHEST QUALITY OF LIFE POSSIBLE! Everyone has struggles in life, I'll meet you in that struggle and equip you with internal tools to help you become THE BEST YOU! I want to help you live your best life! My focus is to meet you where you're comfortable - in our partnership I will provide a safe space for you to express yourself freely without judgement while increasing your ability to unburden, and forgive yourself. Our therapeutic encounters will facilitate opportunities for you to offer yourself self-compassion, empathy, and grow your self-awareness en-route to accomplishing your goals.
I have specialized training in Physical/Mental rehabilitation(TBI, Significant limb loss, Activities of Daily Living, Job replacement/development, etc), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, Mindfulness therapy, Couples therapy, Sex Therapy(Including sexual identity practices), Trauma based therapy, Grief counseling, and ADHD approaches.
I WANT TO HELP YOU REACH YOUR HIGHEST QUALITY OF LIFE POSSIBLE! Everyone has struggles in life, I'll meet you in that struggle and equip you with internal tools to help you become THE BEST YOU! I want to help you live your best life! My focus is to meet you where you're comfortable - in our partnership I will provide a safe space for you to express yourself freely without judgement while increasing your ability to unburden, and forgive yourself. Our therapeutic encounters will facilitate opportunities for you to offer yourself self-compassion, empathy, and grow your self-awareness en-route to accomplishing your goals.
(773) 207-1814 View (773) 207-1814
Photo of Ashlee Taylor, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashlee Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60606  (Online Only)
My specialties include LGBTQ , gender identity, sexuality, ADHD, Anxiety, Neurodevelopmental and behavioral emotional disorders, and parent management training.
Finding the right therapist can be a daunting and vulnerable task, whether you're new to the process or a seasoned pro. As you're scrolling through endless profiles and bios, you may ask yourself "Do I belong here?". I became a therapist to give people the safe space, supportive relationship and perspective that they may not get in other aspects of their lives. I also hope to challenge the stigma that may have discouraged them from engaging in the therapy process.
My specialties include LGBTQ , gender identity, sexuality, ADHD, Anxiety, Neurodevelopmental and behavioral emotional disorders, and parent management training.
Finding the right therapist can be a daunting and vulnerable task, whether you're new to the process or a seasoned pro. As you're scrolling through endless profiles and bios, you may ask yourself "Do I belong here?". I became a therapist to give people the safe space, supportive relationship and perspective that they may not get in other aspects of their lives. I also hope to challenge the stigma that may have discouraged them from engaging in the therapy process.
(224) 243-5242 View (224) 243-5242
Photo of Olivia Landry, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Olivia Landry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60637  (Online Only)
Adolescence and adulthood are filled with transitions and emotional experiences. At times, you may need some support along the way. Whether you are grappling with the unique challenges of ADHD, feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or depression, facing significant life changes, or looking to establish balance in your life, I am here to offer space for you.
Adolescence and adulthood are filled with transitions and emotional experiences. At times, you may need some support along the way. Whether you are grappling with the unique challenges of ADHD, feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or depression, facing significant life changes, or looking to establish balance in your life, I am here to offer space for you.
(312) 820-8156 View (312) 820-8156
Photo of Katy O'Hanlon Bruns, LPC, R-DMT, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katy O'Hanlon Bruns
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, R-DMT, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
I work with clients navigating ADHD, anxiety, depression, identity exploration, & life transitions. I also enjoy working with movement-based artists and therapists. My approach is relational, trauma-informed, & holistic—I strive to cater my skills to meet your specific needs. Often, I integrate my background in dance/movement therapy to help you process emotions, gain insight, & move towards the growth that you seek. While movement & creativity are helpful tools, I understand they can be challenging & am here to guide you. My hope is to help you find deeper comfort in yourself while finding a supportive space to explore your world.
I work with clients navigating ADHD, anxiety, depression, identity exploration, & life transitions. I also enjoy working with movement-based artists and therapists. My approach is relational, trauma-informed, & holistic—I strive to cater my skills to meet your specific needs. Often, I integrate my background in dance/movement therapy to help you process emotions, gain insight, & move towards the growth that you seek. While movement & creativity are helpful tools, I understand they can be challenging & am here to guide you. My hope is to help you find deeper comfort in yourself while finding a supportive space to explore your world.
(773) 923-2977 View (773) 923-2977
Photo of Larry Maucieri, PhD, ABPP-CN, Psychologist
Larry Maucieri
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP-CN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611
Adult ADHD, traumatic brain injuries, and neuropsychological assessment are my specialties.
I'm a board-certified clinical neuropsychologist who helps individuals mainly impacted by ADHD and concussion/TBI. I offer individual therapy for ADHD (ages 18 ) and neuropsychological assessments for ADHD, TBI, and other neurologic conditions (ages 14 ). Therapeutically, I use cognitive behavioral therapy, assertiveness training, and motivational interviewing (MI) methods within the context of an empathic and cohesive therapeutic relationship. NOTE: Therapy openings are more limited than are assessment. I'm licensed in IL, NY, and can offer telehealth sessions to clients in Psypact-participating states.
Adult ADHD, traumatic brain injuries, and neuropsychological assessment are my specialties.
I'm a board-certified clinical neuropsychologist who helps individuals mainly impacted by ADHD and concussion/TBI. I offer individual therapy for ADHD (ages 18 ) and neuropsychological assessments for ADHD, TBI, and other neurologic conditions (ages 14 ). Therapeutically, I use cognitive behavioral therapy, assertiveness training, and motivational interviewing (MI) methods within the context of an empathic and cohesive therapeutic relationship. NOTE: Therapy openings are more limited than are assessment. I'm licensed in IL, NY, and can offer telehealth sessions to clients in Psypact-participating states.
(773) 245-0509 View (773) 245-0509
Photo of Maggie VanDerMolen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maggie VanDerMolen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661
Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or alone, I’m here to help. I work with teens and adults who experience anxiety, depression, ADHD, and relationship issues looking for new avenues to address obstacles to personal fulfillment.
Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or alone, I’m here to help. I work with teens and adults who experience anxiety, depression, ADHD, and relationship issues looking for new avenues to address obstacles to personal fulfillment.
(773) 694-1401 View (773) 694-1401
Photo of Kate Naomi Aldridge, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate Naomi Aldridge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60622  (Online Only)
I also have ADHD, so if you're neurodivergent, I get it.
One of my favorite song lyrics says, "I'm just a spirit trying to be human." There’s so much weight that lives inside those words: emotions, questions, uncertainty. For those of us who wander, question who we are, or wonder what our purpose is, we can stumble if life hasn’t met our expectations. The majority of my clients identify as misfits, empaths, spiritual beings, and highly sensitive people who have survived childhood trauma, harsh life transitions, and an occasional identity crisis.
I also have ADHD, so if you're neurodivergent, I get it.
One of my favorite song lyrics says, "I'm just a spirit trying to be human." There’s so much weight that lives inside those words: emotions, questions, uncertainty. For those of us who wander, question who we are, or wonder what our purpose is, we can stumble if life hasn’t met our expectations. The majority of my clients identify as misfits, empaths, spiritual beings, and highly sensitive people who have survived childhood trauma, harsh life transitions, and an occasional identity crisis.
(217) 651-4165 View (217) 651-4165
Photo of Molly Carter, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Molly Carter
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60626  (Online Only)
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy, Executive Functioning Training for ADHD and ASD, and many more.
I specialize in working with people struggling with symptoms of ADHD, Autism, anxiety, trauma, or navigating through losses and grief. I will take you on a journey of healing, learning practical and lasting coping mechanisms, and overcoming your struggles and insecurities. My goal is to support you in improving your life and becoming the person you aspire to be. I work with individuals and provide couples and family therapy.
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy, Executive Functioning Training for ADHD and ASD, and many more.
I specialize in working with people struggling with symptoms of ADHD, Autism, anxiety, trauma, or navigating through losses and grief. I will take you on a journey of healing, learning practical and lasting coping mechanisms, and overcoming your struggles and insecurities. My goal is to support you in improving your life and becoming the person you aspire to be. I work with individuals and provide couples and family therapy.
(773) 692-6691 View (773) 692-6691
Photo of Jessica Zaehringer, MA, MSW, LCSW, ADHDCer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Zaehringer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW, ADHDCer
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
I am an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider ( ADHD-CCSP).
I help people learn to forgive themselves for not being 'perfect' through eclectic evidence based modalities while also incorporating psychoeducation and lived experience – learning to give yourself the grace you deserve as well as increasing the ease with which you healthily cope with the stressors of life; To learn to create space for yourself and gain a sense of self acceptance and self actualization. I engage with you conversationally to create movement and change towards a healthy outcome through a relational and supportive approach. You are doing your best to navigate through a contradictory world.
I am an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider ( ADHD-CCSP).
I help people learn to forgive themselves for not being 'perfect' through eclectic evidence based modalities while also incorporating psychoeducation and lived experience – learning to give yourself the grace you deserve as well as increasing the ease with which you healthily cope with the stressors of life; To learn to create space for yourself and gain a sense of self acceptance and self actualization. I engage with you conversationally to create movement and change towards a healthy outcome through a relational and supportive approach. You are doing your best to navigate through a contradictory world.
(630) 454-1403 View (630) 454-1403
Photo of Ruri (Nuri) Kim, LCPC, LSW, NCC
Ruri (Nuri) Kim
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LSW, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My clinical approach is authentic and integrative, resulting in a collaborative treatment plan based on client’s culture and values, the best available clinical research, and clinical expertise for my clients to thrive in their lives. I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults in individual, family and group settings. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Executive Functioning (EF) skills, complex trauma/PTSD, bipolar disorder, depression, racial/cultural identities, academic performance, family conflicts, relationship issues, grief, life transitions, stress and other life concerns. I also speak Korean.
My clinical approach is authentic and integrative, resulting in a collaborative treatment plan based on client’s culture and values, the best available clinical research, and clinical expertise for my clients to thrive in their lives. I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults in individual, family and group settings. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Executive Functioning (EF) skills, complex trauma/PTSD, bipolar disorder, depression, racial/cultural identities, academic performance, family conflicts, relationship issues, grief, life transitions, stress and other life concerns. I also speak Korean.
(312) 376-4293 View (312) 376-4293
Photo of Jessie M. Duncan, MA, LPC, NCC
Jessie M. Duncan
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60646
As a therapist I help clients who are struggling to find their way in the world at any stage in life. This can be a life transition, trauma, grief, medical condition, anxiety, depression, ADHD, family, or relationship issues. All these factors, and more, affect us in different ways that can lead to feelings of isolation as we struggle to reconnect with ourselves. Each person's journey through healing is different and I utilize different tools and therapeutic approaches based on these unique needs.
As a therapist I help clients who are struggling to find their way in the world at any stage in life. This can be a life transition, trauma, grief, medical condition, anxiety, depression, ADHD, family, or relationship issues. All these factors, and more, affect us in different ways that can lead to feelings of isolation as we struggle to reconnect with ourselves. Each person's journey through healing is different and I utilize different tools and therapeutic approaches based on these unique needs.
(773) 207-4238 x1005 View (773) 207-4238 x1005
Photo of Samantha Barker, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Samantha Barker
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60606
I provide comprehensive psychological evaluations for ADHD, learning disabilities, anxiety, and depression.
Asking for help isn't easy and takes a great deal of courage. I greatly respect the individuals I work with and do my best to make their experience one that feels healing and encouraging. I work with children, teens, and adults with anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, chronic medical conditions, and difficulties with relationships, life transitions, and self-esteem. I utilize a warm and thoughtful approach to create a genuine and collaborative partnership with each individual I work with.
I provide comprehensive psychological evaluations for ADHD, learning disabilities, anxiety, and depression.
Asking for help isn't easy and takes a great deal of courage. I greatly respect the individuals I work with and do my best to make their experience one that feels healing and encouraging. I work with children, teens, and adults with anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, chronic medical conditions, and difficulties with relationships, life transitions, and self-esteem. I utilize a warm and thoughtful approach to create a genuine and collaborative partnership with each individual I work with.
(224) 701-3603 View (224) 701-3603
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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.