Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention Deficit Disorder
(ADHD/ADD)
With the rise in publicity, the terms Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Disorder (ADHD) have been misused as general descriptions linked to a child’s inappropriate and improper behavior. Although ADD/ADHD may be linked to specific behaviors, behaviors alone do not categorize a child as ADD/ADHD.
Both ADHD and ADD are terms used interchangeably to describe a childhood developmental disorder that stems from neurological factors. Because of the neurological component, ADD/ADHD is best treated with a combination of medication and individual and family therapy.
Although medications can not cure the disorder, they can help curb specific behaviors that may inhibit a child’s daily activities. It is possible to treat mild symptoms without medication through exclusive use of psychosocial intervention to help the child/adolescent learn constructive behavior. Children who suffer from ADHD may exhibit the following behaviors:
Inattention
- Inability to concentrate or pay attention to details
- Forgetfulness or tendency to lose things
- Distractibility or difficulty listening
- Lack of organization
- Difficulty completing homework or following instructions
Hyperactivity/Impulsivity
- Impulsive behavior such as interrupting conversations excessively
- Inability to sit still or to sit quietly for periods of time
- Excessive activity such as talking, running, etc.
- Blurting answers before a question has been completed
Impatience
- Difficulty waiting in line, waiting for a turn, waiting to be called on
A combination of the above symptoms may be characteristic of ADHD. Although usually diagnosed in childhood, ADHD has recently been diagnosed and treated in adults as well. Because many of those who exhibit symptoms may also suffer from other psychological problems, a comprehensive psychological evaluation should be performed to ensure the proper diagnosis.
Clinicians at The Antioch Group are available for both testing and treatment of ADHD and other developmental disorders in both children and adults.
Children:
- Michelle Baker, LCPC, CADC
- Bill Blundell, LCPC
- Maggie Classen, LCSW
- Daniel A. Ebbert, Ph.D.
- Marty Hanson, LCPC
- Corey Hopson, LCPC
- Tiffany J. Mack, MA
- Trinity Maston, LCPC
- Jonna Tyler, LCPC, RPT-S
Adults:
- Rudolf G. Breitmeyer, Ph.D.
- David B. Bucknam, MA, M.Div., LCPC
- Patricia J. Edwards, LCSW, ACSW
- Steven A. Hamon, Ph.D.
- Marty Hanson, LCPC
- Corey Hopson, LCPC
- Jeanine R. Standard, Ph.D.
- David C. Weidner, Psy.D.
- Ted Wolgamot, Psy.D., LCPC, CRADC, CSAT
See our Find a Therapist page for a complete list of specialties.