ADHD Evaluation for Adults
in Washington, DC
Comprehensive Adult ADHD Assessments & Diagnosis
with The Proactive Approach℠
TL;DR: You deserve ADHD testing and treatment that is truly comprehensive, in-depth, and leaves no stone unturned.
Many adults spend years wondering why life feels harder than it should.
You may be intelligent, motivated, and successful on paper, yet still struggle with procrastination, disorganization, missed deadlines, forgetfulness, overwhelm, or difficulty following through on important tasks.
Some people assume they are lazy. Others believe they lack discipline or motivation. Many develop anxiety, burnout, or depression without realizing that untreated ADHD may be contributing to the problem.
At Proactive Psychiatry, we provide comprehensive adult ADHD evaluations for professionals, entrepreneurs, executives, students, and adults seeking clarity about their symptoms. Our goal is not simply to determine whether ADHD is present, but to understand how your brain functions, identify contributing factors, and develop a personalized treatment plan when appropriate.
You deserve ADHD treatment options that are thorough, personalized, and evidence-based including medication, therapy, and coaching - all of which I offer under one roof.
Our appointments will never be rushed, with direct access to me in between meetings.
Look, there are tons of options for ADHD diagnosis and treatment. With My Proactive Approach℠ and My Promise, I guarantee you will experience meaningful improvement.
Schedule Your ADHD Testing Services
I offer a free 15 minute intro during which we can discuss my ADHD evaluation services and ADHD treatment options.
What Is Adult ADHD?
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention regulation, executive functioning, motivation, impulse control, working memory, and emotional regulation.
Despite its name, ADHD is not a deficit of attention.
Many people with ADHD can focus intensely on activities that are stimulating or rewarding. The challenge often lies in regulating attention consistently across different situations.
ADHD can affect:
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Task initiation
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Organization
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Time management
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Prioritization
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Follow-through
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Working memory
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Emotional regulation
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Impulse control
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Sleep
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Productivity
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Relationships
While ADHD often begins in childhood, many adults are not diagnosed until later in life.
Signs You May Benefit From an ADHD Evaluation
Adults with ADHD often report:
Difficulty Starting Tasks
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You know what needs to be done but struggle to begin.
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This may appear as procrastination, avoidance, or feeling mentally “stuck.”
Chronic Disorganization
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You frequently lose items, forget appointments, misplace paperwork, or feel overwhelmed by clutter.
Time Blindness
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You underestimate how long tasks will take, arrive late, miss deadlines, or feel constantly behind.
Difficulty Maintaining Focus
You may:
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Become distracted easily
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Jump between tasks
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Struggle during meetings
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Drift during conversations
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Have difficulty completing projects
Workplace Difficulties
Many adults seek evaluation because of:
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Performance concerns
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Missed deadlines
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Executive dysfunction
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Difficulty managing competing demands
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Career stagnation despite high potential
Emotional Overwhelm
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ADHD can contribute to:
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Frustration
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Irritability
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Anxiety
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Shame
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Low self-esteem
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Burnout
My Holistic ADHD Testing
(also called an ADHD Evaluation, Assessment, or Screening)
here is what I include for every ADHD evaluation
- Comprehensive Clinical Interview: We will have a detailed discussion about medical history, symptoms, lifestyle, and any concerns. This includes questions about sleep patterns, dietary habits, family dynamics, and educational or occupational challenges. This interview aims to understand the person's life as a whole, not just their ADHD symptoms.
- Behavioral Observations: These involve noting behaviors and interactions in different settings. Unlike traditional methods that may rely heavily on self-reports or third-party observations, a holistic approach includes more interactive and diverse observation methods to understand behavior in context.
- Physical Health Evaluation: This includes explicit assessments of diet, sleep, exercise, and overall physical health. Often times I recommend lab work in the form of blood tests to rule out or identify underlying physical health issues that can mimic or exacerbate ADHD symptoms, such as thyroid disorders or nutritional deficiencies.
- Psychological Testing: My holistic approach incorporates additional standardized assessments to evaluate cognitive functions, emotional well-being, and other psychological factors.
- Lifestyle and Environmental Assessment: This involves evaluating daily routines, home and work/school environments, and social interactions. The goal is to identify any external factors that may contribute to symptoms or affect coping ability.
- Family History and Dynamics: Understanding the family history, including any genetic predispositions to ADHD or other mental health conditions, and the dynamics within the family unit can provide valuable insights.
- Collaboration with Other Professionals: A holistic approach often involves collaboration with other healthcare professionals, such as primary care, therapists, or educators, to gain a comprehensive understanding.
(Note: my evaluations may not qualify to be used for academic or employment accommodations.)
Adult ADHD vs. Anxiety
One of the most common reasons adults seek ADHD evaluations is longstanding anxiety.
In some cases, anxiety is the primary condition.
In other cases, anxiety develops as a consequence of untreated ADHD.
For example:
An adult who repeatedly misses deadlines, loses important information, and struggles to stay organized may naturally become anxious about work performance.
Treating the ADHD may significantly reduce the anxiety.
This distinction is one reason a thorough evaluation is so important.
Adult ADHD vs. Burnout
Burnout and ADHD frequently overlap.
Many high-achieving adults can compensate for ADHD symptoms for years through intelligence, effort, and long work hours.
Eventually, the mental strain becomes unsustainable.
Signs of burnout may include:
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Mental exhaustion
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Reduced motivation
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Difficulty concentrating
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Emotional fatigue
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Decreased productivity
Sometimes burnout is the primary issue.
Sometimes ADHD contributes to the cycle.
Often both are present.
ADHD in High-Achieving Adults
Many adults assume they cannot have ADHD because they have been successful.
In reality, ADHD is common among:
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Physicians
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Attorneys
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Executives
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Entrepreneurs
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Consultants
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Government professionals
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Graduate students
Success does not exclude ADHD.
Many adults achieve success while paying a significant hidden cost in stress, exhaustion, self-criticism, and overwork.
ADHD and Executive Dysfunction
Executive functions are the brain’s management systems.
They help us:
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Plan
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Organize
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Prioritize
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Follow through
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Manage time
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Regulate emotions
Executive dysfunction is often one of the most impairing aspects of ADHD.
During your evaluation, we assess executive functioning challenges that may be contributing to difficulties at work, school, or home.
Is ADHD Testing Required?
Formal neuropsychological testing is not required for most adult ADHD diagnoses.
Current clinical guidelines generally support diagnosis through:
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Comprehensive clinical interview
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Symptom assessment
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Functional impairment assessment
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Review of relevant history
In some situations, additional testing may be recommended.
What Happens After an ADHD Diagnosis?
If ADHD is diagnosed, treatment recommendations may include:
Medication
Options may include:
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Stimulant medications
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Non-stimulant medications
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Individualized medication strategies
Behavioral Strategies & Coaching
Practical systems for:
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Organization
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Planning
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Task management
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Time management
Therapy
Therapy can help address:
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Anxiety
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Perfectionism
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Burnout
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Emotional regulation
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Self-esteem
Integrative Treatments
Research suggests that factors such as sleep, exercise, nutrition, and stress management can influence attention, executive functioning, and overall mental health.
Is ADHD Testing Required?
Formal neuropsychological testing is not required for most adult ADHD diagnoses.
Current clinical guidelines generally support diagnosis through:
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Comprehensive clinical interview
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Symptom assessment
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Functional impairment assessment
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Review of relevant history
In some situations, additional testing may be recommended.
Why Use Proactive Psychiatry for ADHD Testing?
Your success is my top priority
From diagnosis to treatment we will work as a team to optimize your wellbeing - and not just for today but also for your future.
My integrative perspective offers truly comprehensive diagnosis and management of ADHD.
Understanding ADHD and My Holistic Approach
I recognize that Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is not just a collection of symptoms, but a complex condition that affects individuals in diverse ways. ADHD is commonly characterized by varying degrees of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. However, its impact extends beyond these symptoms, often influencing academic performance, social interactions, and emotional well-being.
ADHD can manifest differently from one person to another. While some may struggle primarily with sustaining attention, others might find impulsivity or hyperactivity more challenging. It's also not uncommon for individuals with ADHD to experience co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, depression, or learning disabilities, which underscores the importance of a comprehensive and personalized approach to diagnosis and treatment.
My holistic approach at goes beyond conventional diagnostic methods. I strive to understand you as a whole person – considering physical, mental, emotional, and lifestyle factors.
I believe that effective ADHD management involves addressing not just the symptoms, but also the underlying causes and contributing factors, such as nutrition, sleep, environmental influences, and stress levels.
What to Expect During Your ADHD Testing
My ADHD testing process is thorough and patient-centered. I use a combination of clinical interviews, standardized questionnaires, detailed online assessments, and if necessary, collaboration with other healthcare providers to ensure a comprehensive evaluation.
There's a lot of work that goes into my ADHD testing. You can expect to spend a few hours on questionnaires, online tests, and documentation. During our scheduled appointment, we will review the results and come up with a game plan to move forward.
ADHD Management with
The Proactive Approach℠
Holistic Interventions
ADHD can be managed with more than just medication. While medication can be highly effective, medication-only treatments often leave us feeling stuck and beholden to the pill. With a holistic mental health approach we incorporate nutrition, exercise, supplementation and more to effectively optimize wellness.
Genetic
& Biological Testing
There are several import genetic markers that can help guide ADHD treatment. Nutritional deficits can impact ADHD and can be addressed effectively... if we spot them.
Understanding the biological components helps effectively reduce side effects and increase long-term success.
Psychotherapy
& Coaching Support
Talk therapy and coaching includes behavioral modification, coping skills, and the development of healthy habits. These are foundational pieces of ADHD treatment that lead to increased productivity and optimized wellness.
Simple Treatment Plans
A pill-only treatment plan might sound straightforward at first, but over time medications become less effective. Together we will create a simple treatment plans for ADHD. This will include well-rounded options that will empower growth, embrace creativity, and foster self-reliance.
ADHD Evaluation Frequently Asked Questions
How is ADHD diagnosed in adults?
Adult ADHD is typically diagnosed through a comprehensive clinical evaluation that includes a detailed review of symptoms, developmental history, daily functioning, and the impact symptoms have on work, school, relationships, and other areas of life. Most adults do not require extensive neuropsychological testing to receive an ADHD diagnosis.
What happens during an ADHD evaluation?
A comprehensive ADHD evaluation generally includes a review of current symptoms, medical history, mental health history, childhood experiences, academic performance, occupational functioning, and executive functioning challenges. The goal is to understand the full picture rather than simply checking diagnostic boxes.
How long does an ADHD evaluation take?
A quality ADHD evaluation is more thorough than a typical medication appointment. The exact length varies, but the process generally involves a detailed discussion of symptoms, history, functioning, and potential contributing factors.
Can adults be diagnosed with ADHD even if they were never diagnosed as children?
Yes. Many adults are diagnosed later in life. ADHD begins in childhood, but symptoms may not be recognized until adulthood, particularly in high-achieving individuals who developed coping strategies that masked their difficulties.
Do I need neuropsychological testing to diagnose ADHD?
Most adults do not require formal neuropsychological testing. ADHD is commonly diagnosed through a comprehensive clinical evaluation, symptom assessment, and review of functioning across multiple areas of life. Additional testing may be recommended in some situations.
Can anxiety look like ADHD?
Yes. Anxiety can affect attention, concentration, memory, productivity, and decision-making. Because ADHD and anxiety often overlap, a thorough evaluation helps determine whether symptoms are caused by ADHD, anxiety, both conditions, or another factor.
Can burnout cause ADHD-like symptoms?
Yes. Burnout can lead to poor concentration, mental fatigue, reduced motivation, and executive functioning difficulties. A comprehensive evaluation helps determine whether ADHD, burnout, depression, sleep issues, or multiple factors are contributing to symptoms.
Is medication always necessary for ADHD?
No. Medication can be very helpful for many people, but treatment should be individualized. Some adults benefit from behavioral strategies, psychotherapy, coaching-informed approaches, exercise, sleep optimization, nutrition, accommodations, or other non-medication interventions. NICE recommends considering non-pharmacological treatment for adults who choose not to take medication, cannot tolerate it, or continue to have impairment despite medication benefit.
What is integrative ADHD treatment?
Integrative ADHD treatment combines evidence-based psychiatric care with attention to the broader factors that influence mental health and executive function. This may include medication management, sleep, exercise, nutrition, stress reduction, habits, routines, behavioral strategies, and psychotherapy-informed care.
Can successful adults still have ADHD?
Absolutely. Many physicians, attorneys, executives, entrepreneurs, consultants, and graduate students have ADHD. Success does not rule out ADHD. In fact, many adults are diagnosed only after years of compensating through intelligence, hard work, or perfectionism.
What happens after an ADHD diagnosis?
If ADHD is diagnosed, treatment recommendations may include medication management, executive functioning strategies, therapy, coaching, sleep optimization, exercise, nutrition, and lifestyle interventions. Treatment should be individualized based on symptoms, goals, and personal preferences.
Can ADHD be mistaken for depression?
Yes. ADHD and depression can share symptoms such as low motivation, poor concentration, fatigue, and difficulty completing tasks. However, the underlying causes may differ. Some patients feel depressed because years of untreated ADHD have led to repeated frustration, shame, or underperformance.
Does ADHD affect sleep?
Yes. Adults with ADHD may struggle with inconsistent sleep routines, delayed sleep timing, racing thoughts, bedtime procrastination, or difficulty winding down. Poor sleep can also worsen attention, memory, mood, impulse control, and executive functioning.
Can exercise help ADHD?
Exercise may help support attention, executive function, mood, stress resilience, and sleep. NIMH lists regular exercise among strategies that may help manage ADHD symptoms, and CHADD identifies exercise as one of the better-supported non-medication approaches.
What if I was previously told I don’t have ADHD?
A second evaluation may be appropriate if symptoms continue to interfere with daily life. Diagnostic understanding evolves over time, and some adults receive different conclusions when a more comprehensive assessment is performed.
Can nutrition affect ADHD symptoms?
Nutrition does not replace evidence-based ADHD treatment, but it can influence energy, sleep, mood, blood sugar stability, and overall brain health. In an integrative approach, nutrition may include adequate protein, whole-food patterns, omega-3 intake, micronutrient evaluation when appropriate, and reducing highly processed foods if they appear to worsen symptoms.
Can nutrition affect ADHD symptoms?
Nutrition does not replace evidence-based ADHD treatment, but it can influence energy, sleep, mood, blood sugar stability, and overall brain health. In an integrative approach, nutrition may include adequate protein, whole-food patterns, omega-3 intake, micronutrient evaluation when appropriate, and reducing highly processed foods if they appear to worsen symptoms.
Are supplements helpful for ADHD?
100% - Nutrition can influence energy, sleep, mood, blood sugar stability, and overall brain health. In an integrative approach, nutrition may include adequate protein, whole-food patterns, omega-3 intake, micronutrient evaluation when appropriate, and reducing highly processed foods if they appear to worsen symptoms.
Can mindfulness or yoga help ADHD?
Mindfulness, yoga, breathwork, and other restorative practices may support stress reduction, emotional regulation, and self-awareness. They are not a replacement for appropriate ADHD treatment, but they can be useful parts of a broader plan, especially for patients who live in a constant state of urgency or overwhelm.
What is the difference between ADHD treatment and ADHD coaching?
ADHD treatment usually refers to clinical care such as diagnosis, medication management, psychotherapy-informed strategies, and management of coexisting conditions. ADHD coaching is typically more skills-based and may focus on planning, organization, accountability, routines, and task execution. Many patients benefit from both clinical treatment and practical systems.
Do successful professionals have ADHD?
Yes. Many successful adults have ADHD. High intelligence, ambition, structure, and pressure can mask symptoms for years. However, as responsibilities increase, compensatory strategies may stop working. ADHD treatment can help professionals improve focus, organization, productivity, emotional regulation, and sustainability.
What is “time blindness”?
Time blindness describes difficulty accurately sensing, estimating, or managing time. Adults with ADHD may underestimate how long tasks will take, run late despite good intentions, or lose track of time while hyperfocused. Treatment often includes external systems, reminders, calendars, and structured routines.
What is hyperfocus?
Hyperfocus is intense concentration on a task or subject, often to the point of losing track of time or ignoring other responsibilities. It can be productive, but it can also become a problem when attention locks onto low-priority or highly stimulating activities.
Is ADHD the same as laziness?
No. Laziness implies unwillingness. ADHD often involves difficulty regulating attention, effort, motivation, and task initiation despite genuine desire to complete important tasks. Many adults with ADHD are working extremely hard internally, even when the results do not reflect that effort.
Can ADHD affect relationships?
Yes. ADHD can affect relationships through forgetfulness, emotional reactivity, interrupting, poor follow-through, disorganization, or difficulty being fully present. Partners may misinterpret ADHD symptoms as lack of care. Treatment can help improve communication, routines, emotional regulation, and reliability.
Can ADHD affect physical health?
Yes. ADHD can make it harder to maintain healthy habits, including sleep routines, exercise, nutrition, medication adherence, and appointment follow-through. The CDC notes that ADHD in adults may make it more difficult to keep healthy habits and avoid health risks.
Do you treat ADHD and anxiety together?
Yes. ADHD and anxiety often need to be addressed together. The order and structure of treatment depends on which symptoms are most impairing, what is driving the anxiety, and how the patient responds to treatment. Sometimes ADHD treatment reduces anxiety by improving follow-through and reducing chaos.
Do you treat ADHD and burnout together?
Yes. Many adults seek treatment for burnout and later realize ADHD has been contributing. Treatment may focus on reducing overcompensation, improving executive function, addressing sleep, creating sustainable routines, and supporting recovery from chronic stress.
Do you offer telehealth for ADHD treatment?
Telehealth is available for eligible patients in states where Ryan Sheridan is licensed to practice and where regulations allow.
Do you accept insurance?
Proactive Psychiatry is an out-of-network practice. Patients may request a superbill to submit to their insurance company for possible reimbursement depending on their out-of-network benefits. This model allows for more personalized, direct, and comprehensive care than many traditional high-volume insurance-based models.
What makes Proactive Psychiatry different?
Proactive Psychiatry focuses on comprehensive adult ADHD and mental health care that goes beyond medication alone. Treatment may include medication management, executive function support, sleep optimization, nutrition, exercise, stress reduction, and psychotherapy-informed strategies. The goal is practical, sustainable improvement, not simply checking boxes.
How do I get started with adult ADHD treatment?
The first step is scheduling a free intro. During the the call, you will share a bit about your situation. From there, an intake appointment will scheduled so we can discuss symptoms, goals, history, functioning, and possible treatment options. Together we will develop a personalized plan can be developed based on your needs, preferences, and clinical circumstances.