Starting ADHD Therapy for Adults

Are you an adult aged 18 years or older, and have been told by a medical professional that you have...

ADHD
March 21, 2025

Are you an adult aged 18 years or older, and have been told by a medical professional that you have Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD?

Or, perhaps you suspect you have it, but have yet to receive a formal diagnosis?

Either way, you are at the right place to read about available therapy options.

This is excellent because many adults with ADHD are unaware that they may have this disorder.

Symptoms include completing work, organizing tasks, and problems with concentrating, remembering information, and following instructions.

There are plenty of ways for adults to receive ADHD therapy.

When one receives therapy for their ADHD, their symptoms may be significantly reduced.

One type of ADHD therapy for adults is cognitive behavior therapy or CBT.

There is also mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT). Yet another one that we will discuss is occupational therapy.

You may also benefit from career counseling, as well as changes to your daily life.

Sit tight, because we are going to cover a plethora of available ADHD therapy for adults!

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Cognitive Behavior Therapy

CBT targets unhelpful thought patterns that cause depression and anxiety.

When used with stimulant medication prescribed to them by a healthcare professional, CBT may help a person with ADHD.

Through CBT, a person learns techniques and skills to self-manage their disorder.

Remember that these techniques and skills will take time to develop.

A person may exhibit healthier behavior than before they received and worked in the therapy.

A qualified therapist who conducts ADHD therapy for adults can work with a person to come up with a CBT plan catered to their needs.

Woman sits at table with book and tablet.

Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy

If you seek to combine mindfulness meditation with cognitive behavioral interventions, then a therapist who performs ADHD therapy for adults may feel that mindfulness-based cognitive therapy is for you.

What is mindfulness, you may ask? Mindfulness promotes an alert and open state of mind, during which a client's attention remains in the moment.

During mindfulness exercises in ADHD therapy for adults, feelings and thoughts that arise are not judged, but still recognized.

When one participates in mindfulness meditation, some brain functions involved in ADHD can be improved.

These brain functions include emotion regulation and attention control.

Man in black jacket stands while on cell phone.

Career Counseling

Another type of ADHD therapy for adults is career counseling.

You can start by speaking with a therapist who has extensive experience in working with ADHD clients.

Before this, you may want to take an online test to help you find a good career fit.

You may find out more about your preferences and skills, what motivates you and makes you comfortable at work, and overall what it would make the most sense for you to do at a company.

Mental health professionals have found that people with ADHD need to be interested in their work to remain motivated and focused.

They also do well with structure that involves clear instructions and goals.

People with both ADHD and high energy levels may excel at fast-paced jobs where quick thinking occurs frequently.

Hands-on and creative work is a fantastic option as well, because people with ADHD may find they are very satisfied using their kinesthetic, auditory, or visual senses regularly.

That would be an alternative to a desk job that some people with ADHD find unsatisfying.

Occupational Therapy

Above we mentioned that occupational therapy may help adults with ADHD. Now, what is occupational therapy?

It helps people with skill-building and modifying an environment or workplace for better engagement.

Occupational therapists work in the community as well and can come to your home.

ADHD therapy for adults is offered in part because adults with the disorder may find they need assistance with organization, such as where to put essential items, establishing routines, and having structure in their daily life.

As part of their routines, people may find they have issues with caring for loved ones, getting dressed, bathing, eating, shopping, and/or cooking.

If you have had an injury that has impacted your mental health and overall life, occupational therapy may be appropriate to get you on the road closer to where you were before the injury.

We can work with you to find an occupational therapist we feel will help you with your ADHD after listening to your needs and hearing about your day-to-day important activities and environments.

What Else May Help One's ADHD

Aside from ADHD therapy for adults, people can find that lifestyle changes help manage their symptoms.

If one has ADHD, one may want a support network. That could be family or friends, or perhaps a support group for others curious about ADHD therapy for adults.

Aside from the meditation discussed above, one may want to try yoga. Do not forget to get enough sleep, as well as exercise.

Healthy eating habits can take you far, as adults with ADHD may have nutritional deficiencies that affect their symptoms.

People with ADHD have been found to have deficiencies in omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, magnesium, iron, and B vitamins including B2, B6, and B9.

It may also help an adult to obtain food allergy testing. Possible sources of food sensitivities in people with ADHD have included dairy products, gluten, eggs, chocolate, soy, corn, artificial colorings, legumes, and some fruits like oranges and grapes.

Also, in terms of food, as part of their ADHD therapy, one may want to meal plan.

Conclusion

See, there is plenty of available ADHD therapy for adults! Whether you have received a formal diagnosis or not, you are likely aware of the symptoms that include issues with work, focus, and following instructions.

Mental health professionals are available to help you reduce your symptoms to lead you to mental wellness.

That may be through CBT, MBCT, career counseling, a referral to an occupational therapist, or working with you on implementing and staying with lifestyle changes.

With the right therapy, you will be on your way to successfully manage your ADHD in no time.

Resources

https://www.healthyplace.com/adhd/adhd-adults/adult-adhd-therapy-could-it-help-you

https://www.verywellhealth.com/adhd-therapy-for-adults-5217992

https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/mecdc/public-health-systems/lho/documents/apa_adhd.pdf

https://edgefoundation.org/finding-the-right-career-fit-when-you-have-adult-adhd/

Author
Jennifer Luttman, LPC, ACS

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, and owner of Overcomers Counseling. I'm dedicated to helping individuals find strength and healing through life’s challenges. With a deep understanding of mental health and years of professional experience, I specialize in fostering hope and resilience while equipping her clients with tools to thrive. Passionate about empowering others, she creates a safe, supportive space where everyone feels seen, valued, and capable of overcoming obstacles on their path to well-being.

Common Questions about ADHD

What can untreated ADHD look like in women?

Untreated ADHD in women can lead to low self-esteem, mood swings, and difficulty focusing. It can also increase the risk of eating disorders, substance abuse, and other mental health issues.

What are some resources for family members of addicts?

Some resources for family members of addicts include therapy, counseling, 12-step programs, and other support groups. It is important to seek out these resources to get the tools you need to deal with your loved one's addiction. You can also find help for yourself through these resources.

What does high functioning ADHD look like for women?

Women with high functioning ADHD may appear to manage their symptoms well but still struggle internally. They may have successful careers but struggle with time management, organization, and maintaining social relationships.

Can adults with ADHD experience emotional dysregulation?

Yes, both children and adults with ADHD can experience emotional dysregulation. However, the manifestations may differ, with adults often having more complex processes and coping mechanisms.

Is emotional dysregulation a core symptom of ADHD?

While not listed as a core symptom in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, research suggests that emotional dysregulation is a common and impactful aspect of ADHD.

What is Inattentive ADHD in Female Adults?

Inattentive type ADHD is characterized by difficulty paying attention, forgetfulness, and disorganization. Women with this type of ADHD may struggle with completing tasks, following instructions, and maintaining focus.