ADHD Specialist

ADHD affects the ability to focus on a single task, sit quietly, or maintain attention. Commonly individuals with ADHD struggle with executive functioning challenges. ADHD is usually diagnosed in childhood and about 80% of individuals continue to struggle with symptoms into adulthood.

It’s not fully understood what causes ADHD. It may arise due to genetics, environment, or developmental issues. Risk factors for ADHD include premature birth, a blood relative with the condition, exposure to environmental toxins, and drug use on the part of the mother.

ADHD and ADD are in fact the same thing. ADD is a diagnosis you may have received as a child, but that is now subsumed under the ADHD diagnosis (regardless of whether or not you have hyperactive symptoms).

Inattention, impulsivity, and distractibility are some of the most common and noticeable symptoms of ADHD. Some patients also demonstrate hyperactivity.

You might also observe the following as symptoms of ADHD:

• Forgetfulness

• Avoidance of tasks that require attention

• Trouble with organization

• Inability to follow instructions

• Fidgeting or squirming

• Interrupting people

The severity of these symptoms varies, and all of them may not be present. Symptoms typically persist until the ADHD patient receives treatment.

To get started, Dr. Branda gathers a health history and asks questions about behavior. She’ll get details of all symptoms from the patient and possibly from their caregivers. She may recommend that a patient have a thorough medical exam that includes hearing and vision tests, too, to make sure the symptoms of ADHD aren’t due to a physical problem.

ADHD can involve behaviors that are associated with other problems, so she rules out other issues, such as a learning disability or anxiety, before making a diagnosis of ADHD.

Dr. Branda provides talk therapy and behavioral therapy to treat ADHD. She may also offer couples therapy in addition to individual therapy, depending on the individual case. Her goal is to provide a customized treatment plan that boosts confidence and social function, thus allowing people with ADHD to live their best lives.

She may also offer lifestyle support to help manage ADHD. Healthy eating, regular physical activity, limited screen time, and plenty of sleep can help prevent symptoms from becoming overwhelming.

To learn more about ADHD diagnosis and treatment, call Dr. Branda at Summit Psychology, or the online booking tool to schedule a consultation.