How to Behaviorally Treat Adult ADHD

So you are an adult who just got an ADHD diagnosis...now what?

There are many ways to approach treating adult ADHD behaviorally. In this article, I will discuss my process for treating adult ADHD once a client has obtained an official diagnosis through testing.

1. I provide the client with a verified referral for medication if desired or discuss with them methods for finding a prescribing provider that fits their needs. I also encourage clients to continue working with an established prescribing provider if they already have a good working relationship with one.

2. We discuss concrete goals the client has in terms of managing symptoms that are causing problems in important areas of their life. For example; many clients with ADHD struggle with things like chronic procrastination and general time management skills that cause problems for them at work, at home and in relationships with others. An important part of behavioral treatment of ADHD is getting a sense of the landscape for each client of how their symptoms are presenting and causing problems for them.

3. We create feasible and realistic goals that are targeting problem symptoms and behaviors. Part of behavioral treatment that can feel overwhelming is goal setting; especially for folks struggling with ADHD and executive function related tasks. In terms of goal setting, I like to follow the KISS principle - Keep it Simple Silly. Research has shown time and again that small goals are easier to sustain over time and ultimately lead to more meaningful and lasting change. Sometimes its true that the tortoise really can win the race in this instance; though this concept is often challenging for a lot of folks living with ADHD to wrap their minds around. Making change with behavioral treatment takes time, practice, and often involves failure, which can feel really scary! But that's why counseling and coaching is there to support through this process. Which brings me to my next point...

4. Providing a space to process the difficult emotions that can arise during treatment. Often times treating adult ADHD is triggering for many people. It brings up fears of failure, and can often result in clients feeling depressed or anxious that they aren't "getting it right." Having a space to work through these emotional challenges, as well as discuss emotional obstacles in treatment, such as avoidance, and unpack these emotional experiences is a crucial part of treating adult ADHD.

5. Remember to stick to realistic expectations in terms of behavioral models of change. Part of facilitating successful treatment of adult ADHD is recognizing that the path is not linear or perfect. Many people find themselves struggling with the same problems for a long time, even when receiving support, and deeply entrenched habits are so hard to break! Self compassion and patience through this process help clients be gentle with themselves and alter the expectations they have of themselves throughout treatment. Shaping the relationship with the self from a critical one to one that is more accepting is an invaluable intervention in and of itself. As with all change, it is important to balance identifying areas of struggle with a healthy dose of self acceptance and self compassion. This does not mean we encourage the enabling of behaviors that are causing problems in our lives; but we work to look at them honestly and without shame.

   
   

These 5 points are really just the tip of the iceberg in terms of behavioral treatment of adult ADHD. I love seeing the progress clients make over time and being a part of their journey is such a privilege and a gift. If you are interested in seeking treatment for symptoms of adult ADHD that are causing problems in your life at work, at home and in relationships with others and/or if you are interested in seeking ADHD testing, email me at drchelseatwisscounseling@gmail.com.

Wildflowers captured in Austin, Texas - as the teabags say, "adapt the pace of nature, her secret is patience." ;)