Understanding ADHD
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that fundamentally affects the brain's executive functions. It is not simply a deficit of attention, but rather an inconsistency of attention and a difficulty directing it where it’s needed.
Individuals with ADHD often struggle with working memory, impulse control, task initiation, and emotional regulation. While stimulant and non-stimulant medications are highly effective first-line treatments, medications alone do not teach skills. Therapy for ADHD focuses on building the practical systems and emotional resilience needed to thrive in a neurotypical world.
How to ADHD: What is ADHD?
Types of Therapy for ADHD
- CBT for ADHD — Adapts traditional Cognitive Behavioral Therapy specifically for the ADHD brain. It aims to reduce the shame spiral ("I'm lazy," "I'm broken") and focuses heavily on practical interventions for time management and organization.
- Executive Function Coaching — A highly directive approach where coaches work collaboratively with clients to build systems for planning, prioritization, and task execution.
- Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) — Helps individuals observe their wandering thoughts without judgment and gently bring attention back to the present moment, improving emotional regulation.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) — Often adapted for individuals with ADHD who struggle significantly with rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD) and emotional outbursts.
ADHD Therapy Specialists
Verified Oregon therapists
Kate Mordarski
★ FEATURED PROLPC · 916 SW King Avenue Suite 202
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor with 17 years experience providing outpatient, residential,…
Erol Berkeley-Hanson
★ FEATURED PROLSCW, LICSW · Portland, OR
My name is Erol Berkeley-Hanson, LCSW, LICSW. I provide telehealth therapy for teens, adults, and…
Steven Ponec
★ FEATURED PROProfessional Counselor Associate · Tigard, OR 97223
Hello! I’m Steven, a Professional Counselor Associate passionate about helping kids, teens, and…
Jacky Gomez
★ FEATURED PROLCSW
You may seem OK on the outside, but on the inside, your mind rarely slows down. There is constant…
Dr. Priya Sharma
PROPhD · Portland, OR
Dr. Priya Sharma is a clinical psychologist who specializes in adult ADHD, autism spectrum…
Why Therapy Matters Alongside Medication
A common phrase in the ADHD treatment community is: "Pills don't build skills." Medication can clear the fog, reduce hyperactivity, and make task initiation possible, but it doesn't inherently teach you how to use a planner, manage a budget, or cope with years of accumulated shame from missed deadlines or social friction.
Furthermore, an estimated 50–80% of adults with ADHD have at least one co-occurring mental health condition, such as depression, chronic anxiety, or substance use issues—all of which require specialized therapeutic intervention beyond ADHD medication.
Sources & Clinical Evidence
- Safren, S. A., et al. (2010). Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for ADHD in Medication-Treated Adults with Continued Symptoms. JAMA. Groundbreaking study proving that CBT significantly improves ADHD symptoms even when medication is already being used.
- CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder). Guidelines on Psychosocial Treatment. Highlights the critical role of behavioral interventions for comprehensive care.