ADHD

If you can’t seem to stay focused or wonder why you always need to be on the go, you may have attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Krystal Donley, PMHNP, and the licensed therapists at Desert View Counseling & Consulting have extensive training and experience performing ADHD assessments and helping people of all ages overcome their ADHD with medication and therapy. To schedule an in-person or telehealth appointment, call the office in Phoenix or Peoria, Arizona, or book online today.

What is ADHD?

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that begins as the brain develops, resulting in changes in areas that regulate emotions, behaviors, and executive function. Executive function refers to the cognitive abilities needed to focus, plan, and perform tasks.

These brain differences cause the core issues of ADHD. Though everyone occasionally struggles with hyperactivity or paying attention, these challenges cause serious daily problems for children and adults with ADHD.

What symptoms does ADHD cause?

An ADHD diagnosis typically occurs between the ages of 4-7 years, but may go unrecognized until later in life. One-third of all children with ADHD carry the condition with them throughout their lifetime.

There are three types of ADHD: inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, and combined.

People diagnosed with inattentive ADHD have symptoms such as:

• Making reckless mistakes
• Frequently getting distracted
• Missing important details
• Forgetting to start or finish tasks
• Being unable to get (or stay) organized
• Daydreaming instead of paying attention
• Having a hard time following directions

If you have hyperactive-impulsive ADHD, your symptoms include:

• Having poor impulse control
• Fidgeting when you should be sitting still
• Constantly being on the go
• Talking a lot and blurting out answers
• Feeling restless or impatient
• Finding it hard to wait
• Interrupting or intruding on others

Combined ADHD means you have some symptoms from both types. 

How is ADHD diagnosed and treated?

The team at Desert View Counseling & Consulting performs comprehensive ADHD assessments, including interactive interviews and asking parents and teachers to complete behavioral checklists.

Your therapist reviews the information, writes a report detailing the results, and schedules an appointment to talk with you about the next steps.

The team at Desert View Counseling & Consulting treats ADHD with medication, therapy, or in many cases, both.

Therapy

Psychotherapy helps children and adults overcome many of the challenges caused by ADHD. They may need to learn ways to manage emotional outbursts or behavioral problems. Therapy can teach you or your child the tools needed to reduce stress, organize, or improve social and friendship skills.

Medication

Though stimulant medications generally produce better results, you can also use non-stimulant medications if you prefer or if stimulants cause side effects. Both types improve attention and other symptoms by boosting brain chemical levels.

Don’t let ADHD stand in the way of success in school, work, and all aspects of life. Call Desert View Counseling & Consulting or book an appointment online today.