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Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A counselor can help children (and their parents) or adults, who have been diagnosed with ADD or ADHD (or suspect they have either one), to identify the symptoms or characteristics that are present and educate them, so that they can learn ways to work “with” and not “against” their disorder. Since these are chronic conditions that can exist throughout a person’s life, it is important to understand behaviors that could be present at different stages of development or life. Some show signs and symptoms that interfere with learning, socializing and developing self-esteem and have difficulties with impulse control and a very high activity level. They can have trouble concentrating and sticking with a task and have problems getting along with others. Some may have poor problem solving skills, conduct problems or be at increased risk for depression and alcohol/drug abuse. While these are a number of the most prominent symptoms of ADD and ADHD; each person is different and each individual will experience some (but probably not all) of these behaviors. Parents of children with ADD or ADHD may need assistance in developing and setting appropriate, consistent limits or behavior modification programs. The goals of therapy for people diagnosed with ADD or ADHD is to learn how to adapt, to manage their symptoms, to develop solution-focused interventions for problems they are experiencing and have intermittent consultation regarding their progress. Their therapist can also make recommendations regarding evaluation of the client’s need for medication or med management services to treat their disorder. If medication is prescribed, they will be informed about the risks and benefits, what changes to expect, possible side effects and appropriate dosage and administration. Through ongoing therapy, the therapist can help monitor the effects of the medication in school or work, at home and during activities and provide the prescribing physician with feedback to assist in achieving the best response from the meds.
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