ADHD & neurodivergent teens
counselling support in Edmonton & Sherwood Park
Adolescent ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is characterized by difficulty with attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. ADHD affects about 5-10% of school-aged children, and symptoms often persist into adolescence and adulthood.
Symptoms of adolescent ADHD may include:
1. Difficulty paying attention or staying focused, especially on tasks that are not interesting or stimulating.
2. Hyperactivity or restlessness, including fidgeting, difficulty sitting still, and talking excessively.
3. Impulsivity, including acting without thinking, interrupting others, and making impulsive decisions.
4. Poor organization and time management skills, leading to difficulty completing tasks or following through on commitments.
5. Forgetfulness and disorganization, leading to problems with academic performance and social relationships.
Adolescents with ADHD may also experience emotional difficulties such as low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression.
Treatment for adolescent ADHD typically involves a combination of medication and behavioral therapy. Medications such as stimulants can help improve attention and reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity. Behavioral therapy can help adolescents develop coping strategies, improve organization and time management skills, and address emotional difficulties. A comprehensive treatment plan should be tailored to the individual needs of the adolescent and may involve collaboration between healthcare providers, educators, and family members.
Therapy can be a helpful tool in the treatment of ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder). There are several ways that therapy can help individuals with ADHD:
1. Developing coping strategies: Therapy can help individuals with ADHD develop coping strategies for managing symptoms such as impulsivity, hyperactivity, and inattention. This may include learning mindfulness techniques, practicing self-awareness, and developing organizational skills.
2. Improving social skills: Individuals with ADHD may struggle with social skills, leading to difficulty with relationships and social interactions. Therapy can help individuals with ADHD develop and practice social skills such as communication, empathy, and self-regulation.
3. Addressing emotional difficulties: ADHD can be associated with emotional difficulties such as anxiety and depression. Therapy can help individuals with ADHD address and manage these emotional challenges.
4. Improving academic performance: Therapy can help individuals with ADHD develop strategies for improving academic performance, such as improving time management and study skills.
5. Support and encouragement: Therapy can provide a safe and supportive environment where individuals with ADHD can receive support and encouragement. This can be especially important for individuals who may feel misunderstood or stigmatized due to their ADHD symptoms.
It is important to note that therapy may be used in combination with other treatments for ADHD, such as medication and behavioral interventions. A comprehensive treatment plan should be tailored to the individual needs of the person with ADHD and may involve collaboration between healthcare providers, educators, and family members.
Thrive offers a variety of experienced counsellors that can help your teen:
Identify problem areas and symptoms of ADD/ADHD
Process feelings around the disorder and diagnosis
Manage negative impulses and behaviours
Make a plan to help with focus, organization and completing tasks
Work on executive functioning skills & strategies for school success
Identify and cultivate practices that will help to accomplish goals