Therapy for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is often associated with childhood, but many people don’t realise that it continues into adulthood for many individuals. ADHD is not just about being easily distracted – it affects attention, impulse control, and executive functioning (such as planning, organisation, and time management).
For children, ADHD may present as hyperactivity, difficulty following instructions, or impulsivity. However, in adults, it often looks different – chronic disorganisation, difficulty focusing on tasks, forgetfulness, or feeling overwhelmed by daily responsibilities. Some adults may not have been diagnosed in childhood, leaving them to wonder why they’ve always struggled with focus, procrastination, or feeling “scattered”.
ADHD is not about laziness or a lack of effort. It is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how the brain processes attention and regulation. With the right strategies and support, individuals with ADHD can thrive in their personal and professional lives.
At The Victorian Psychology Clinic we recognise that assessment and treatment of ADHD a tailored, evidence-based approach. In line with our values, we aim to work collaboratively with our clients, referrers and other professionals involved in our clients care including general practitioners, other allied health professionals and psychiatrists.
Signs and Symptoms of ADHD
ADHD presents differently in each person, but it generally falls into three categories: inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, or combined type.
Common ADHD Symptoms in Adults:
- Difficulty focusing on tasks, especially those that are not highly stimulating.
- Chronic procrastination, often leading to last-minute stress.
- Forgetfulness (e.g., missing appointments, misplacing items).
- Struggles with time management, frequently running late or underestimating how long tasks will take.
- Difficulty following through on projects, leaving things half-finished.
- Impulsivity in decision-making, spending, or interrupting conversations.
- Feeling overwhelmed by routine tasks, such as paying bills or managing emails.
- “Hyperfocus” on certain tasks while struggling to shift attention to others.
- Struggling to stay seated or focus in class.
- Frequently interrupting conversations or blurting out answers.
- Difficulty following instructions and completing homework.
- Forgetting schoolwork, lunches, or other daily essentials.
- Fidgeting, tapping, or excessive movement.
- Difficulty waiting their turn or managing frustration.
Some individuals have primarily inattentive ADHD, meaning they struggle more with focus and forgetfulness, while others experience hyperactivity and impulsivity. Many have a combination of both.
How ADHD is Managed
ADHD is manageable, and treatment focuses on understanding symptoms, building effective coping strategies, and making adjustments to daily life. The following outlines specific therapies and treatments that are often utilised for both adults and children:
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Helps with procrastination, time management, and emotional regulation.
- Executive Functioning Coaching: Strategies for planning, organisation, and breaking tasks into manageable steps.
- Mindfulness and Emotional Regulation Skills: Helps with impulsivity and managing frustration.
- Medication: Stimulant and non-stimulant medications may be prescribed by a GP or psychiatrist.
- Environmental and Lifestyle Adjustments: Small changes, such as using reminders, visual schedules, or structured routines, can significantly improve daily functioning.
- Parent Coaching: Helping parents understand and support their child’s unique needs.
- School Accommodations: Support such as extra time for tasks or movement breaks as well as creating structured routines and positive reinforcement systems.
How we can support you
At VPC, we support individuals with ADHD across all life stages. Whether you or your child are struggling with focus, organisation, or managing overwhelm, we offer tailored, evidence-based approaches to help navigate daily challenges. We offer both assessment of ADHD and treatment for ADHD.
- For adults, we focus on practical strategies to improve focus, organisation, and self-regulation, helping individuals manage work, relationships, and daily responsibilities more effectively.
- For children and adolescents, we offer behavioural interventions, parent coaching, and support for school-related challenges, ensuring families have the tools they need to thrive.
If you or your child are experiencing ADHD symptoms and need support, we’re here to help.
We have a number of clinicians who work with eating disorders. To learn more, please refer to our Psychologists page for clinician details.
If you are currently experiencing eating difficulties or body image concerns and would like to begin your journey to recovery, get in touch with us. We are here to help.