ADHD Therapy  

Effective Therapy, Diagnosis & Treatment of Adult ADHD

Adult ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) and neurodivergence tends to be one of the most commonly and easily misdiagnosed conditions. ADHD is a neurobiological, often genetic, brain-based trait. Many clinicians struggle to feel confident diagnosing and treating adult ADHD, yet it is highly responsive to treatment. Usually diagnosed in childhood, ADHD is characterized by inattention, impulsivity, and, in some cases, hyperactivity. Psychiatrists, psychologists, physicians and other mental health professionals often misattribute symptoms of ADHD as stemming from other disorders like depression, anxiety and PTSD/trauma. Yes, these issues can also co-occur with ADHD, but often, individuals spend years struggling being undiagnosed or misdiagnosed, mistakenly blaming symptoms on flaws of character. If you are struggling with ADHD, it’s vital to find a mental health professional trained to identify and understand the complexities and scope of ADHD.

The rates of ADHD have nearly doubled since the late 1990s. In fact, leading researchers are suggesting that up to 75% of adults may unknowingly have ADHD, or at least, many symptoms of ADHD that impact their personal and professional lives, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe. Many adults with ADHD have fewer symptoms as they age, but some adults continue to have major symptoms that interfere with daily functioning. In adults, the main features of ADHD may include difficulty paying attention, impulsiveness and restlessness. Adults symptomatic for ADHD may find it difficult to prioritize and focus, leading to missed deadlines and forgotten meetings or social plans. This cycle leads to high levels of stress and shame. The inability to control impulses can include saying inappropriate things, impatience waiting in traffic or outbursts of anger.

ADD, which stood for Attention Deficit Disorder, was replaced in recent editions of the DSM-IV by Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). With the change, the DSM-IV divided the disorder into 3 subtypes: primarily inattentive type, primarily hyperactive type, and a combined type. Understanding these types is critical in articulating what happens in ADHD therapy.

ADHD Therapy for women in NYC

Women are often underdiagnosed and undertreated for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) today, primarily due to old stereotypes about the disorder mainly affecting men. Women with existing diagnosed or undiagnosed ADHD will often find symptoms worsen during times of hormonal change and stress. Frequently women are diagnosed at perimenopause and menopause because of neurotransmitter changes that occur when hormones shift and decline. It’s important to find informed and skilled care during these important transitions.

Manhattan Psychotherapy & Wellness, you will work with a highly-skilled and certified specialist to support the needs of women and their mental health. Therapy offers identification, diagnosis, education, tools, inspiration, and support for women with ADHD to help them overcome their symptoms and live their best lives.

The diagnostic types of ADHD presentation according to the DSM 5:

314.00 (F90.0) predominantly inattentive presentation

This subtype should be used if six (or more) symptoms of inattention for children, and five for adults, (but fewer than six symptoms for children and five for adults of hyperactivity-impulsivity) have persisted for at least six months.

314.01 (F90.1) Predominately hyperactive-impulsive presentation

This should be used if six (or more) symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity for children, and five for adults (but fewer than six symptoms for children and five for adults of inattention) have persisted for at least six months.

314.01 (F90.2) Combined presentation

This subtype should be used if six (or more) symptoms of inattention for children, and five for adults, and six (or more) symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity for children, and five for adults, have persisted for at least six months.

314.01 (F90.8) Other specified Attention-Deficit/hyperactivity disorder

This category applies to presentations in which symptoms characteristic of ADHD that cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational or other important areas of functioning predominate but do not meet the full criteria for ADHD or any of the disorders in the neurodevelopmental disorders diagnostic class.

314.01 (F90.9) Unspecified Attention-Deficit/hyperactivity disorder

This category applied to presentations in which symptoms characteristic of ADHD that cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning predominate but do not meet the full criteria for ADHD or any of the disorders in the neurodevelopmental disorders diagnostic class.

Adult ADHD Symptoms & Executive Functioning Challenges may include:

• Impulsiveness

• Low frustration tolerance

• Trouble coping with stress

• Frequent mood swings and rage

• Disorganization and problems prioritizing

• Making careless mistakes

• Losing items

• Easily distracted by stimuli or unrelated details

• Forgetfulness in daily activities

• Difficulty paying attention to details or when spoken to

• Trouble sustaining attention on tasks

• Difficulty following instructions and

• Poor planning

• Poor time management skills

• Trouble multitasking

• Excessive talking

• Frequent interruptions or intruding on others

• Difficulty waiting for one’s turn

• Excessive fidgeting, activity or restlessness

• Problems following through and completing tasks

How is adult ADHD diagnosed?

It's less common for adults to be diagnosed with ADHD. As with childhood diagnosis, symptoms of several mental disorders mimic ADHD symptoms. A healthcare professional will typically take a medical history, rule out any chronic illness or other psychiatric disorder, and then work with a mental health care professional to get an accurate ADHD diagnosis through the use of ADHD checklists.

With more of the population showing neurodivergence in a society that demands even more focus, organization and time management, proper identification and support is both timely and critical. On a more positive note, there is less stigma associated with ADHD now than in the past, which makes it easier for individuals and professionals to seek the care and treatment they need. Individuals with mild symptoms who were not formally diagnosed in the past are now able to seek support. It’s also important to understand the many factors that contribute to ADHD, such as: maternal substance abuse, premature delivery and low birth weight, brain injury, poor nutrition, poor sleep quality, environmental hazards or chemicals and blue light-emitting devices as just a few examples of challenges in the environment.

Working with someone who can help you not only manage your symptoms but also maximize your strengths and encourage you to embrace your gifts is downright life-changing.

Improving your life if you have been diagnosed with ADHD

It is possible to live well and thrive with ADHD but you will need ADHD-focused therapies that center on an individual’s goals building on your unique strengths. Counseling with an ADHD expert will provide you and family members with the necessary education and support. You may also benefit from accommodations in your workplace to support your professional needs. For example some individuals benefit from modifications in the environment as well as counseling to increase skills to improve executive functioning deficits. Of course, stimulant and non-stimulant medication can be explored and trialed to improve your symptoms of ADHD as well as self-esteem as you begin to function at your potential.

About ADHD Diagnosis & Therapy NYC

This practice provides a range of psychological & wellness services in NYC and throughout NY state. The goal is to individualize treatment to your unique physical, emotional, cognitive and spiritual needs. I have experience working with a broad range of symptoms and approaches in psychotherapy, including but not limited to EMDR Therapy, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems and Holistic Mind-Body Medicine. Therapy begins with a therapeutic consultation, where you will gain a wealth of information about your difficulties. Many people feel better after the first session. The initial consultation also lays the groundwork for future treatment as we determine the best modalities to help you heal.

Experienced & Certified ADHD Therapist With Nearly 20 Years Of Experience

This practice offers supportive, compassionate and comprehensive care and also stays current on research related to mental health. My goal for you is to use my expertise and extensive training to get you back to living your life as quickly as possible.

Book An Appointment For ADHD Therapy Today

To get started, book an appointment or call/text at 212-529-8292. Integrative Psychotherapy & Wellness Manhattan can help you in your healing journey towards optimal mental health.