Understanding and Learning to Manage ADHD - Expert Support at The Child & Family Center Salisbury

What is ADHD?  

Did you know that Albert Einstein had ADHD?  How about Bill Gates?  Michael Jordan? Michael Phelps?  Yes, yes, and yes again!  They all made amazing discoveries and achieved award winning heights in their fields, even though (or maybe because) their brains worked differently than many. You can achieve remarkable things, too.  The experts at The Child & Family Center can help you learn to use your strengths to overcome the weaknesses.  Sounds easy, and with a coach by your side, it will be easier.   Do you feel like you are always getting into trouble at school?  We can help you turn that around, so you feel understood and are successful!

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects a person’s ability to focus, control impulses, and regulate their activity levels. Common symptoms include difficulty paying attention, forgetfulness, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness, which can interfere with daily tasks, relationships, and overall functioning. ADHD is often diagnosed in childhood but can continue into adulthood. With the right support and treatment, such as therapy and medication, individuals with ADHD can develop strategies to manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives.

How Can You Be Sure That You or Your Child Has ADHD?

The Child & Family Center is comprised of a diverse group of professionals.  Some of our experts focus on diagnosing ADHD through tests that help differentiate between true ADHD and other challenges that can mimic those same symptoms, such as learning differences (or learning disabilities), emotional dysregulation, trauma, autism spectrum disorder, among others. To ensure that the proper diagnosis is given, with parent’s consent, we often request questionnaires from parents, teachers, spouses, or other people who are in this person’s daily life. Sometimes we go out to school to observe a student during class.  There are empirical methods used by our experts to ensure a proper diagnosis is provided before beginning treatment.  We believe in getting it right so treatment can be most effective.

Our Comprehensive Evaluation Process at The Child & Family Center includes:

• In-depth initial assessment

• Behavioral observations in various settings

• Cognitive testing when needed

• Family history review

• Environmental factors assessment

• Academic or work performance evaluation

• School observations when beneficial

What it Feels Like to Have ADHD

Individuals with ADHD may often appear Inattentive and share that it is hard to concentrate on tasks, especially if they are lengthy or uninteresting. They might lose track of conversations (even in classes or meetings in which they are interested) and often misplace items.  Background noise, visual stimuli, or even their own thoughts can pull their attention away from their task at hand.  On the other hand, some people with ADHD experience Hyperfocus on activities that truly engage their interest, allowing them to produce impressive work in those areas and remarkable success.

Impulsivity is also a challenge for many people with ADHD who might struggle to pause and consider the consequences of their words or actions, leading to hasty decisions or comments. Impulsivity can manifest in social situations such as interrupting conversations or blurting out responses before it is their turn to speak. 

Hyperactivity is something we can see.  It creates a restlessness that makes it difficult to sit still without moving, fidgeting with something, or getting up to move around. 

Emotionality.  Many individuals describe feeling overwhelmed by stress and feeling irritable.  In general, people with ADHD tend to experience emotions more intensely, leading to quick frustration, excitement, or sadness. This emotional volatility can be overwhelming and lead to challenges in relationships, whether within the family, dating or marriage, or at school, work, and recreation. 

Time management. Procrastination? Missing deadlines, or late? Underestimating the time it will take to do things? Forgetting an assignment or appointment? These are all challenges that can be part of managing ADHD symptoms. 

Fortunately, many individuals with ADHD possess prominent levels of creativity, energy, and enthusiasm. They often think creatively and approach problems in unique ways that can lead to being a valued team member and needing a team of others to implement their creative plan.

What Types of Treatment Strategies are Helpful?

The most common treatment strategies for ADHD include a combination of the following approaches:

• Behavioral Therapy. This involves teaching coping strategies, organization skills, establishing routines and behavior management techniques to help individuals better manage symptoms in daily life.

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). CBT focuses on identifying negative thought patterns and behaviors, helping individuals develop strategies to manage impulsivity, frustration, and emotional regulation.

• Parent Training and Education. For children with ADHD, training for parents helps them learn effective ways to support their child’s behavior, structure routines, and manage symptoms at home.

• Lifestyle Modification. Regular physical activity, a healthy diet, sufficient sleep, and mindfulness practices can improve attention, reduce hyperactivity, and boost overall well-being.

• School Accommodations. Educational supports like individualized education plans (IEPs) or 504 plans can be implemented within the school setting to help children with ADHD succeed academically.

• Medication. Psychiatrists or pediatricians often prescribe stimulants (like Adderall and Ritalin) and non-stimulants (like Strattera) to help improve focus, impulse control, and attention. At the current time, we do not offer medication services at our practice, but we are always happy to collaborate with your or your child’s medical professionals.

Our experts often combine different strategies to provide the most comprehensive support for individuals with ADHD.

No Matter How Old You Are, Let Us Help You Feel More Organized and In Control!

Frequently Asked Questions About ADHD at The Child & Family Center

Have more questions?

Our team at The Child & Family Center is here to help. Call to schedule a free 15-minute consultation to discuss your specific concerns and learn how our experienced specialists can support you or your loved one's ADHD journey.