Most people with an attention deficit don’t suspect that this is their problem, or that it even has a name.
They have been exposed to a great deal of pain in their lives, and they finally see a professional therapist for a number of related problems, such as work difficulties, relationship difficulties, depression, or substance abuse. Treatment for ADHD usually consists of the following:
- First, find a trained professional who seems knowledgeable; you should feel comfortable with this person.
- You will first review your history with your therapist. This includes your family history, your physical (medical) history, your development, your history in school, at home and in jobs, and your history in relationships.
- Your therapist will rule out other possible causes for your difficulties (such as anxiety, depression or substance abuse).
- You will likely be given a psychological assessment, although not necessarily in all cases. Sometimes a lengthy interview will suffice.
- Once the diagnosis is made, your first goal will be to educate yourself about ADHD. You will read books, articles or resources you find on the Internet.
- With the help of your therapist, you will work on restructuring your life, both internally and externally. Internally, you start to think about yourself differently and you examine your self-image issues. Externally, you work on ways to improve how you organize and insert control into your life.
- You will start a course of psychotherapy in order to gain an understanding of what made you who you are today and what you can do to take a different orientation toward your life. This may also involve joining a therapy or support group with other people who share similar problems.
- You may or may not be referred to a physician regarding using medication. Many people with attention deficits benefit from safe doses of stimulant medication, while others benefit from anti-depressant or anti-anxiety medication.
Do you think you have ADHD? Please contact our office for a free consultation.
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