Effective Therapy, Diagnosis & Treatment of Adult ADHD
Adult ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) and neurodivergence tend 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 with 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. 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 stands 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 with 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 detail 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 healthcare 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 are 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 your 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 your 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 text at 212-529-8292. Integrative Psychotherapy & Wellness Manhattan can help you in your healing journey toward optimal mental health.
Exquisitely-Tailored Therapy & Experienced Guidance
You are a unique human, and your therapy should reflect your need for Compassion, agency, change, responsiveness and empowerment. Our work together will include:
Increasing your energy and vitality
Improving and balancing your mood
Managing your stress and anxiety
Improving your motivation and focus
Managing your movement, nutrition and sleep needs
Reducing or eliminating unnecessary medications when desired
Healing Modalities Used In This NYC Therapy & Wellness Practice
Psychodynamic Psychotherapy
Psychodynamic psychotherapy, also known as Insight-oriented therapy, is based on the theory that by increasing awareness of our unconscious drives, conflicts and experiences, we can live less reflexively and more consciously, creating new life… MORE
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a structured, goal-oriented type of talk therapy. It can help patients manage mental health concerns, such as anxiety, PTSD and depression. It focuses on modifying dysfunctional emotions, behaviors, thoughts… MORE
EMDR Therapy
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. EMDR Therapy uses bilateral stimulation to help people process… MORE
Internal Family Systems
Internal Family Systems is a powerfully transformative and evidence-based model of psychotherapy that focuses on our multiple inner parts that contain valuable information, and our core Self that knows how to heal and integrate for wellbeing… MORE
Somatic Experiencing
SE is a body-oriented therapeutic model that helps heal trauma and other stress disorders. It is a multi-disciplinary study of stress physiology, psychology, ethology, biology, neuroscience, indigenous healing practices, and medical biophysics… MORE
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy
SFBT concentrates on finding solutions in the present and exploring one’s hope for the future in order to find a quick and practical resolution of one’s problems. This method takes the approach that you know what you need to do to improve your… MORE
About Holistic Psychotherapy & Wellness Manhattan
I’ve been in the holistic wellness & psychology field for nearly twenty years. As a licensed psychotherapist with a private psychotherapy practice in New York City, I blend what I’ve found to be the most effective practices in psychology, neurobiology, attachment, alternative medicine, nutrition, coaching, and mind-body medicine practices. I believe that lasting change and transformation is possible when given the right tools to thrive. I’ve received extensive training and certification in a range of innovative, effective, and evidence-based therapies to offer comprehensive care.
As a holistic psychotherapist, I believe it’s important to address the root cause of emotional and somatic suffering. As a trauma-trained therapist, I am influenced by humanist and existential philosophy, relational theory, attachment theory, psychoanalytic concepts, mindfulness, and somatic, mind, and body psychology. I have received extensive post-graduate training in EMDR Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Somatic Experiencing (SE), Nutrition and Integrative Medicine For Mental Health, and more. In marriage and couple counseling, my work is influenced by the Gottman Method, Internal Family Systems, and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
As neuroscience demonstrates, the brain can heal, and the body and mind are inextricably linked. My 20+ years of experience with mindfulness, yoga therapy, and meditation greatly influence my work as a mental health provider. A Holistic therapy model ensures that you thrive in the many aspects of your life—including your relationship with yourself and others. Together, we work with practices designed to create an environment that supports optimal physical and mental health well-being. Lasting change and transformation is possible when given the right tools to thrive.
Holistic Psychotherapy & Wellness Manhattan Therapy Modalities
Psychoanalytic, Relational & Interpersonal Psychotherapy
Attachment-Focused Couple Therapy (traditional, non-traditional, non-monogamy, alternative lifestyle couples), Sexual Counseling
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), DBT Skills
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy
Advanced level EMDR Therapy, Parts Therapy, Integrated Internal Family Systems (IFS), Somatic Experiencing
Positive Psychology, Positive Neuroplasticity Coaching
Transformational, Peak Performance& Wellness Coaching
Urban Zen Integrative Therapy, Reiki, Energy Medicine, Yoga Therapy
Nutrition & Integrative Medicine For Mental Health, Nutritional Amino Acid Protocols (using precursor amino acids, fatty acids, herbal medicine, supplement recommendations for mood, anxiety, ADHD, addictions, cravings, brain fog, PTSD, and more)
Clinical Hypnosis
Kimberly Seelbrede: Post Graduate Training & Certifications
New York University - Advanced CBT Certification, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Advanced Clinical Practice, Clinical Approaches to the Addictions, Clinical Practice with Adolescents
Somatic Experiencing® International (in progress)
Eating Disorders, Compulsions & Addictions (EDCAS) Certification
William Alanson White Institute of Psychiatry, Psychoanalysis & Psychology
EMDR Advanced Level EMDR Practitioner - Laurel Parnell PhD
Brainspotting - Lisa Schwarz, MEd
Positive Neuroplasticity Training Certification - Rick Hanson PhD
Nutrition and Integrative Medicine for Mental Health - Leslie Korn PhD
IFS Immersion: Integrating Internal Family Systems Across Clinical Applications - Frank Anderson, PhD
Dialectical Behavior Therapy - Behavior Tech Institute
Mindful Self-Compassion Training - Christopher K. Germer, PhD & Kristen Neff PhD
Executive Life Coaching - New York University
Institute for Life Coach Training
Urban Zen Integrative Therapy Training Program
Additional Professional Training: Gottman Institute for Couples, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Hypnosis for Trauma & PTSD, Focusing Institute, Whole Body Focusing with Glenn Fleisch, Ph.D. EMDR & Trauma Treatment with Jennifer Sweeton, PsyD, MS, MA. Ongoing workshops: Ester Perel, Bessel van der Kolk, MD, Dan Siegel, MD, Peter Levine, Ph.D, Gabor Mate, MD, Richard Schwartz, PhD, Sue Johnson, IFS, Somatic Experiencing, Trauma-Focused Treatment, Yoga Therapy, Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapy
Clinical practice Expertise & Specialties
Depression (major, postpartum depression, SAD, bipolar disorder, atypical depression, dysthymia, situational, chronic sadness)
Anxiety (panic, generalized, phobias, social, PTSD), fear, worry, stress management, insomnia, work/life balance
Women’s hormonal health, perimenopause and menopause mental health assessment/coaching, chronic pain
Trauma resolution, obstacles, blocking beliefs, self-sabotage, problem patterns, and habits
Crisis counseling, life challenges, transitions, grief, loss and bereavement
Dysfunctional relationship dynamics, professional and personal relationships, communication difficulties, divorce, separation
Shadow work, energetic blocks, boundary work
Addictions, behavioral addictions, substance abuse, alcoholism and compulsions
Family of origin, codependency, family conflict resolution, submissiveness and recovery from family enmeshment, ACOA
Recovery and post-rehab support (step-down support, wellness planning, new habit maintenance, and self-care)
Celebrity mental health expertise and high-profile, VIP clients, therapy for entrepreneurs, executives, creatives, medical professionals
talk therapy not enough? Find lasting Healing & Transformation with EMDR
If traditional talk therapy has not yielded the desired healing results, it might be time to consider a different model of care. I’ve been trained in many effective therapies, but I find myself consistently returning to EMDR. EMDR Therapy changed my practice years ago because it works and it changes lives. It is the one treatment method that is consistently powerful and transformative for my patients, especially when other highly effective therapies such as IFS, CBT, and Somatic Experiencing are integrated into sessions. Therapy is highly individualized, and depending on your unique needs, chosen therapy modalities may include: EMDR, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, CBT, Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness, and Somatic Experiencing®. I completed EMDRIA-approved EMDR advanced Levels I & II training and supervision many years ago and I’ve used it in my New York City psychotherapy private practice consistently and with excellent results.
EMDR therapy is highly effective in addressing underlying beliefs, patterns, and blocks that can hinder progress in traditional therapy or life coaching. EMDR treatment can help transform mere survival into thriving, leading to a life free from disruptive symptoms. By reprocessing difficult or traumatic memories, EMDR can boost resilience and vitality in the nervous system. EMDR is not only for trauma; it is also valuable for enhancing performance in athletes, creatives, and work-related endeavors. During the pandemic, many of us discovered that EMDR can be effectively offered to many patients virtually. Virtual EMDR can be a powerful addition to your therapy journey, whether used in conjunction with your existing therapy or as a standalone solution. learn more about EMDR Therapy
Create An Hour Of Refuge And Focus On Your Emotional Wellbeing
Expert, experienced Online Therapy Serving NYC & NY State Residents
faqs about online therapy in nYC: how does Virtual therapy/video therapy work?
The technology for telemedicine has been available for decades, but the pandemic made virtual therapy a necessity. It's surprising how many people have benefitted from online virtual therapy. Like many therapists in NYC, I've been conducting virtual sessions for some time, so I'm comfortable working with technology. It's important to note that teletherapy isn't suitable for everyone seeking counseling, as many people prefer conducting psychotherapy sessions in person.
How does Online therapy work?
This holistic psychotherapy and wellness practice in New York City understands that many people have busy schedules and may find it difficult to commute to therapy sessions. That's why I offer virtual therapy and telephone therapy as modern options for counseling. This is especially convenient for individuals who work, travel, have young children with different schedules, are young adults, college students, or expats. After scheduling an online session, you will receive a secure session link from the HIPAA-compliant platform SimplePractice. You can access the virtual therapy office using your computer, iOS/Android phone, iPad, or any other tablet-enabled device. Most laptops have a built-in camera and microphone, making it easy to participate in the sessions. Creating an emotionally safe space in your home or office for virtual sessions is also important, and all you need is a strong internet connection.
What kind of therapy is offered virtually?
Online sessions are treated the same way as face-to-face sessions, using the same evidence-based therapy modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), trauma therapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, somatic psychotherapy, life coaching, wellness coaching, and stress management. Remote EMDR has been found to be just as effective for trauma resolution and other concerns as in-person EMDR. However, not everyone or every situation should be treated remotely, so it’s important to contact potential therapists to determine if virtual therapy is appropriate for your situation. Research now demonstrates that therapy sessions conducted by teletherapy are just as effective as face-to-face therapy. Read the research.
Who can benefit from virtual therapy?
Anyone can access high-quality therapy in a private, confidential, and convenient manner. Seeking therapy with an experienced NYC psychotherapist can lead to healthier relationships, new perspectives, reaching goals, and building resilience. Therapy can provide support during stressful and challenging times, helping you feel less alone with your problems. Living in New York City comes with unique challenges, including a fast-paced lifestyle and high levels of stress. If you're experiencing feelings of anxiety, depression, loneliness, loss, substance use, or unresolved trauma PTSD, know that you're not alone. Holistic Psychotherapy & Wellness Manhattan offers evidence-based counseling and an integrative psychotherapy philosophy tailored to your unique needs. As a licensed psychotherapist in New York, I can see you whether you live in the NYC metro area or anywhere in New York State. There are various modern therapy options available, such as BetterHelp, TalkSpace, and the numerous licensed psychotherapists and psychologists on Psychology Today who provide high-quality therapy in the US and worldwide. Interested in receiving therapy in New York using your health insurance benefits? Holistic Psychotherapy & Wellness Manhattan is In-Network with BCBS & Aetna, and Out-of-Network with most health insurances. I have also been reimbursed by Aetna, Cigna, BCBS, Emblem, Oxford, United, and many more for out-of-network mental health services. Most of my clients are compensated about 50-100% of my fees.
How can Integrative Psychotherapy & Wellness NYC enhance your life?
Gain support through a personal crisis, transition, loss, trauma, or challenging situation that causes personal or relational distress
Heal codependency and feel empowered, autonomous, safe, and secure in your life as self-esteem naturally increases
Find relief for sadness, depression, and chronic depression with interpersonal psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and EMDR
Uncover unconscious conflicts, patterns and blocking beliefs that may be sabotaging your success and happiness
Address dissociation, body image, eating disorders, compulsions, addictions, substance use or abuse, and obsessions
Learn to identify important thoughts, feelings, emotions, motivations, and unconscious internal conflicts with insight-oriented therapy
Develop enhanced self-awareness as well as empathy and compassion for self and others with relational therapy
Break through blocks in intimacy, detach from unhealthy relationships, and break patterns of repetition in significant relationships
Learn to identify triggers that lead to anger, confusion, and relationship dysfunction in couple and relationship counseling
Develop effective, assertive communication skills to benefit personal and professional relationships
Learn more adaptive coping skills, self-care rituals, self-acceptance, and mindfulness to create a healthy work-life balance
Uncover patterns of crippling perfectionism that interfere with achievement, success, and personal happiness using EMDR
Process and heal painful feelings of loneliness, disappointment, sadness, loss, grief, guilt, shame, anger, envy and fear
Resolve trauma and abuse symptoms, develop healthier boundaries, and heal early attachment wounds with EMDR Therapy
Discover protocols using precursor amino acids, fatty acids, herbal medicine, supplements for mood, anxiety, ADHD, addictions, cravings, brain fog, PTSD
Identify hormone-related (peri-menopause, menopause) anxiety, depression, insomnia, brain fog, low energy, pain, migraines, fibromyalgia
Learn self-care, meditation, breathing techniques, energy medicine & somatic therapy practices to regulate your nervous system
Obtain consultations for referrals to psychopharmacologists, psychiatrists, psychologists, and other allied professionals