According to the CDC, millions of U.S. adults have an ADHD diagnosis. ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) can impact virtually all areas of your life, from your work or school life to your relationships, and more. While ADHD is common, a lack of treatment can interfere with your overall quality of life. In this article, you’ll learn more about how you can seek professional support, and what to look for in an ADHD therapist.
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5 Things to Look For in an ADHD Therapist
Finding the right therapist for you, whether you are looking for ADHD treatment or support for another mental health condition, is important. While seeking professional treatment is critical, it’s important to find a therapist who specializes in treatment for your specific condition/needs. Below are several things to look for in an ADHD therapist if you are in need of support.
1. Consider a Therapist’s Experience, Education, & Credentials
First, when looking for an ADHD therapist that is right for you, it’s important to consider a therapist’s unique experience, education, and credentials. This is because you’ll want to look for an ADHD therapist who not only has the knowledge and educational background, but someone who also is a licensed therapist who has years of experience specializing in providing ADHD care to individuals. An ADHD therapist can help you with a range of problems you may be struggling with, including:
- Time management and prioritization skills
- Effective communication skills
- Address issues involving a lack of focus or attention
- And more
2. Understand What Treatment Methods They Offer
It’s also important to understand what treatment methods are available, as well as look for an ADHD therapist who offers the treatment you are looking for. For example, CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) is a common mental health treatment option, including when it comes to helping patients looking for support with their ADHD diagnosis. CBT involves helping individuals identify any negative thinking patterns or behaviors they may have to ultimately effectively address those to improve their quality of life.
3. Assess Other Important Factors (Scheduling, Online, etc.)
Other important factors to look out for that are often overlooked include understanding a therapist’s scheduling options. For example, depending on your unique schedule and preferences, you may want to see an ADHD therapist online or in person. Therefore, if you are interested in in-person treatment, it’s critical to look for an ADHD therapist near you.
4. Find a Compassionate Therapist who Prioritizes Healthy Communication
Next, while finding a qualified, licensed therapist are important factors, it’s also important to look for a therapist that you feel comfortable around. Therefore, it is critical to try and consider finding a compassionate therapist whom you feel comfortable as you are able to effectively communicate with. This will ensure you are able to effectively listen and communicate with your therapist so you can work toward improving your symptoms.
5. When In Doubt, Ask Questions
Last but not least, if you have any lingering questions or are unsure if the ADHD therapist you are considering going to is right for you, it is important to ask questions and consider seeking an initial session or consultation. Here, you will be better able to get to know a therapist, and your therapist will get to know your unique needs better. This will allow you to see if you may be a good fit for you.
Help Is Available
Now you know more about what to look for in an ADHD therapist. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with ADHD, it’s essential to consider seeking professional help from an ADHD therapist who can provide you with personalized treatment to improve your ability to focus, communicate with others, help with everyday problems, and more.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is online ADHD therapy effective?
Online ADHD therapy can be effective. However, it’s important to understand that online therapy options may not be the best for everyone. Depending on your unique needs, in-person treatments may be recommended, especially if you are just starting treatment to improve your ADHD symptoms. If you are interested in learning more about potential online therapy options, consider talking with your therapist about a potential shift to a remote or hybrid schedule.
Can I see any therapist to treat ADHD?
It is generally recommended to see a therapist who specializes in the condition you are looking to improve. Therefore, if you have an ADHD diagnosis and are looking to improve your symptoms, it’s important to find a licensed ADHD therapist. This individual will not only have the specialized background and knowledge to help you address your symptoms, but they will also likely have years of experience helping other people with ADHD improve their lives for the better.
How do I choose a therapist for ADHD?
As discussed above, there is a range of factors to consider when looking for the right ADHD therapist for you. First, you want to ensure the therapist you are considering has a background in psychology and counseling and has pursued a degree and proper training in counseling. Next, you’ll also want to check to see if the therapist you are considering aligns with important factors like scheduling, your preference on in-person/remote sessions, as well as see if you feel comfortable communicating with your therapist.
While the first couple of sessions may feel uncomfortable as you are getting to know your therapist, it’s key to find a compassionate therapist who actively listens to you. And, if you find after a few sessions that the therapist you choose may not be right for you and your needs, you can always consider looking for other therapists who specialize in ADHD treatment for support.
