Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
(ADHD)
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can impact various aspects of life, from school and work performance to relationships and daily tasks. At Beenen Therapy Group, we provide a supportive environment where individuals with ADHD can learn strategies to manage their symptoms, improve focus, and develop greater self-awareness. Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or a loved one, our team of experienced therapists is here to guide you through effective techniques and coping strategies tailored to your unique needs. Explore our ADHD services and discover how therapy can help you lead a more organized, focused, and fulfilling life.
Types of ADHD
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a complex condition that can manifest in different ways, depending on the individual. While everyone with ADHD shares core symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, the way these symptoms present can vary significantly. Understanding the different types of ADHD can help identify the specific challenges an individual may face and tailor the most effective treatment strategies.
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ADHD is generally classified into three main types, based on the combination of symptoms a person experiences:
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1. ADHD, Inattentive Type
Individuals with this type of ADHD primarily experience symptoms of inattention. They may struggle to stay focused, follow through with tasks, and stay organized. This type of ADHD is sometimes less noticeable than the hyperactive types, as it doesn’t involve the visible signs of hyperactivity or impulsivity. Symptoms may include:
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Difficulty staying focused on tasks or conversations
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Frequent careless mistakes in schoolwork or work tasks
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Easily distracted by external stimuli
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Forgetfulness or misplacing things
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Trouble following instructions and completing tasks
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Avoidance of tasks requiring sustained attention (e.g., reading or lengthy assignments)
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Treatment focus for this type of ADHD often includes improving organizational skills, building attention control, and learning coping strategies to manage distractibility.
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2. ADHD, Hyperactive-Impulsive Type
In this type of ADHD, hyperactivity and impulsivity are the dominant symptoms. Individuals may be more visibly active and struggle with controlling their impulses. This can lead to difficulties in environments where stillness and patience are required, such as in school or work settings. Symptoms include:
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Difficulty sitting still or staying quiet (fidgeting, squirming)
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Talking excessively or interrupting others
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Inability to wait their turn or impulsively blurting out answers or ideas
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Difficulty engaging in activities quietly or calmly
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Impulsive decision-making without considering consequences
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Emotional outbursts or difficulty managing frustration
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Treatment focus for individuals with hyperactive-impulsive ADHD often involves strategies to manage impulsivity and hyperactivity, such as learning self-regulation techniques and improving impulse control.
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3. ADHD, Combined Type
As the name suggests, this type of ADHD is characterized by a combination of both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms. Individuals with this type experience challenges in a broader range of areas, including focus, impulse control, and emotional regulation. Symptoms may include:
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A mix of distractibility, trouble focusing, and difficulty organizing tasks (inattention)
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Hyperactivity symptoms like fidgeting, difficulty staying seated, and restlessness
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Impulsivity, such as interrupting others, making hasty decisions, or engaging in risky behaviors
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Trouble following through with tasks or maintaining consistent effort over time
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Treatment focus for combined-type ADHD often involves addressing both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. This may include strategies to improve focus, emotional regulation, and behavioral control.
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ADHD in Adults
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While ADHD is commonly diagnosed in childhood, it can continue into adulthood or be diagnosed later in life. In adults, the symptoms may look slightly different than in children. Adult ADHD may manifest more as issues with time management, staying organized, and completing tasks, which can affect work, relationships, and daily responsibilities. However, hyperactivity symptoms may lessen, and impulsivity can become more subtle, such as making snap decisions or struggling with emotional regulation.
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How ADHD Types Affect Daily Life
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The type of ADHD a person has can significantly impact different aspects of their life, such as:
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Academic and Professional Performance: Those with inattentive symptoms may have trouble completing assignments or following through on projects, while those with hyperactive-impulsive symptoms might struggle in structured settings.
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Relationships: Inattention can cause communication issues or neglect of responsibilities, while impulsivity or hyperactivity can cause frustrations in relationships.
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Self-Esteem and Emotional Health: Struggling with ADHD symptoms can lead to feelings of frustration, guilt, or low self-esteem.
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Treatment Approaches for ADHD
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Each type of ADHD requires a unique approach to treatment. At Beenen Therapy Group, we provide personalized therapy plans that may include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness techniques, behavioral strategies, and executive function coaching to address the specific needs of each individual based on their ADHD type.
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No matter the type of ADHD, treatment can be highly effective in managing symptoms and improving overall quality of life. With the right support, individuals with ADHD can develop strategies to improve focus, reduce impulsivity, and achieve success in their personal and professional lives.
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurological condition that affects a person’s ability to focus, stay organized, and manage impulses. It is often characterized by symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, which can impact daily life, work, relationships, and overall well-being. Whether diagnosed in childhood or adulthood, ADHD can present unique challenges, but with the right support and strategies, individuals can thrive.
At Beenen Therapy Group, we specialize in providing tailored therapeutic treatment for individuals with ADHD. Our experienced therapists understand the complexities of ADHD and work collaboratively with clients to develop personalized strategies for managing symptoms and improving quality of life. Through a combination of therapeutic techniques, coping strategies, and organizational tools, we empower individuals to gain control over their ADHD and enhance their ability to function in different aspects of life.
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How Therapy Can Help with ADHD
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Therapy at Beenen Therapy Group focuses on helping individuals with ADHD develop skills to manage their symptoms and navigate challenges more effectively. Our approach includes:
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps individuals with ADHD identify and change unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors. It is particularly effective in addressing impulsivity, emotional regulation, and organizational skills.
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Executive Functioning Support: We provide strategies to improve time management, organization, and planning. This includes breaking down tasks, setting realistic goals, and using tools like calendars, reminders, and prioritization techniques.
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Mindfulness and Stress Reduction: Mindfulness practices can help individuals with ADHD stay present and manage the anxiety or frustration that can come with symptoms. Learning relaxation techniques can improve emotional regulation and reduce impulsive behavior.
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Behavioral Strategies: Our therapists teach behavior modification techniques to help reinforce positive habits, such as reward systems and structured routines, which are essential for managing ADHD.
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Family Support and Education: ADHD often affects relationships, and family therapy can help loved ones better understand ADHD symptoms and how to provide support. We work with families to build communication and coping strategies that promote a supportive home environment.
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Benefits of Therapy for ADHD
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Therapy for ADHD can help individuals:
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Improve Focus and Attention: Learn practical techniques to sustain attention and minimize distractions.
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Enhance Emotional Regulation: Gain strategies for managing frustration, impulsivity, and emotional responses.
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Boost Organizational Skills: Develop systems for staying organized, managing time, and keeping track of tasks.
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Strengthen Relationships: Improve communication skills, reduce conflicts, and build healthier relationships with family, friends, and coworkers.
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Build Confidence and Self-Esteem: By learning how to manage ADHD symptoms, individuals can feel more in control of their lives, which boosts confidence and well-being.
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Increase Productivity: Implementing strategies to stay on task can improve work and school performance, leading to greater satisfaction and achievement.
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ADHD at Beenen Therapy Group
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At Beenen Therapy Group, we understand that ADHD affects individuals differently, which is why our approach is customized to meet each person’s unique needs. Whether you’re struggling with focus and time management or dealing with the emotional impact of ADHD, we are here to help. Our therapists are experienced in treating both children and adults with ADHD and will work with you to identify your specific challenges and create a personalized plan for improvement.
If you or a loved one is struggling with ADHD, reach out today to learn more about how therapy can help. At Beenen Therapy Group, we provide the tools, strategies, and support needed to manage ADHD and live a more organized, balanced, and fulfilling life.
Debunking
common
myths
about
ADHD
Despite growing awareness of ADHD, there are still many misconceptions about the condition that can lead to misunderstanding, stigma, or even resistance to seeking help. Let’s address and debunk some of the most common myths about ADHD to provide a clearer understanding of this complex disorder.
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Myth 1: ADHD is just an excuse for laziness.
Fact: ADHD is a neurological condition, not a lack of motivation or effort. People with ADHD often work twice as hard to accomplish tasks that may come easily to others. The challenges they face, such as difficulty focusing, managing time, or completing tasks, are symptoms of the condition, not a reflection of character or work ethic.
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Myth 2: Only kids have ADHD.
Fact: While ADHD is often diagnosed in childhood, it frequently continues into adulthood. Many adults live with undiagnosed ADHD, attributing their struggles to other factors. Adult ADHD symptoms often include time management issues, difficulty with organization, and challenges in relationships or professional settings.
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Myth 3: ADHD is caused by bad parenting.
Fact: ADHD is not the result of poor parenting. It is a brain-based condition influenced by genetic and environmental factors. While parenting strategies can help manage behaviors associated with ADHD, they do not cause the condition.
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Myth 4: ADHD isn’t a real condition.
Fact: ADHD is a well-researched and medically recognized disorder, supported by decades of scientific study. It is included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) and has clear diagnostic criteria.
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Myth 5: Medication is the only treatment for ADHD.
Fact: While medication can be a helpful tool for many, it is not the only treatment option for ADHD. Therapy, behavioral strategies, mindfulness practices, and lifestyle adjustments can also be highly effective in managing symptoms. A comprehensive treatment plan often combines multiple approaches tailored to the individual.
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Myth 6: People with ADHD just need to try harder.
Fact: ADHD isn’t about effort; it’s about how the brain processes information and manages executive functions like focus, organization, and impulse control. With proper support and strategies, individuals with ADHD can thrive, but it’s not a matter of willpower alone.
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Myth 7: ADHD is overdiagnosed.
Fact: While ADHD awareness has increased, leading to more diagnoses, research suggests that it is not overdiagnosed but often misunderstood or misdiagnosed. Many individuals, especially adults or those with inattentive-type ADHD, remain undiagnosed and untreated.
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Myth 8: ADHD only affects school performance.
Fact: ADHD impacts many areas of life, not just academics. It can affect work productivity, relationships, self-esteem, and emotional regulation. Proper treatment addresses these broader challenges to improve overall quality of life.
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Myth 9: Everyone has ADHD-like symptoms sometimes.
Fact: While many people occasionally experience distractibility or forgetfulness, ADHD involves persistent and impairing symptoms that interfere with daily functioning in multiple areas of life. It is a diagnosable condition, not a personality trait.
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By debunking these myths, we can foster greater understanding and support for individuals with ADHD. At Beenen Therapy Group, we are here to provide accurate information, compassionate care, and effective treatment strategies to help individuals with ADHD navigate life with confidence and success.
If you or a loved one is navigating the challenges of ADHD, you don’t have to face it alone. At Beenen Therapy Group, we provide personalized, effective therapy to help individuals of all ages manage their symptoms and thrive in their daily lives. Whether you're seeking tools to improve focus, emotional regulation, or organizational skills, our team is here to support you every step of the way.