ADHD Psychiatrists in Iowa

Photo of Maria Lynn Sonnack, Physician Assistant in Iowa
Maria Lynn Sonnack
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Davenport, IA 52807
I truly enjoy working with all psychiatric diagnoses, but I especially enjoy working with borderline personality disorder and facilitating STEPPS group for this group of patients. I also have a strong passion in treating child and adult ADHD. I firmly believe in psychiatric wellness and work with my patients from a “whole person” approach to not only treat their illness with medication, but also therapy, good nutrition and general health.
I truly enjoy working with all psychiatric diagnoses, but I especially enjoy working with borderline personality disorder and facilitating STEPPS group for this group of patients. I also have a strong passion in treating child and adult ADHD. I firmly believe in psychiatric wellness and work with my patients from a “whole person” approach to not only treat their illness with medication, but also therapy, good nutrition and general health.
(319) 595-4327 View (319) 595-4327
Photo of Charlotte Toms, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Iowa
Charlotte Toms
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50319
I've been working in the mental health field since 2017 and have extensive experience treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar, insomnia, addictions, and other conditions.
Your strength has led you here in this moment to take the next step in embracing a new path, a different future. I’m here to help guide you - through psychiatric evaluation/diagnosis, medication management, or therapy. You don't need to keep self-medicating with technology, social media, food, and alcohol to feel happy, dull your emotional pain or shame, or escape your feelings. Wake up feeling rested, worthy, and motivated. Reconnect with others and find joy in the simple things again. Experience peace in your life by making healthier choices and building healthier relationships with yourself and others.
I've been working in the mental health field since 2017 and have extensive experience treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar, insomnia, addictions, and other conditions.
Your strength has led you here in this moment to take the next step in embracing a new path, a different future. I’m here to help guide you - through psychiatric evaluation/diagnosis, medication management, or therapy. You don't need to keep self-medicating with technology, social media, food, and alcohol to feel happy, dull your emotional pain or shame, or escape your feelings. Wake up feeling rested, worthy, and motivated. Reconnect with others and find joy in the simple things again. Experience peace in your life by making healthier choices and building healthier relationships with yourself and others.
(515) 454-5406 View (515) 454-5406
Photo of Catina Greene, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Iowa
Catina Greene
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50318
Have you been struggling with loneliness, sadness, crying spells, overwhelming thoughts of regret or unsurety, nervousness, irritability, mood changes, sleep issues? Were you told that you have ADHD? Well, now you can be formally tested. I’m here to help you explore your feelings and how your body responds to them. These responses may be related to complex life changes, traumatic events, chemical imbalances, or thought processes. I then incorporate the client's experience with my expertise to provide an individualized plan of care. Care plans will include cultural sensitivities and gender needs.
Have you been struggling with loneliness, sadness, crying spells, overwhelming thoughts of regret or unsurety, nervousness, irritability, mood changes, sleep issues? Were you told that you have ADHD? Well, now you can be formally tested. I’m here to help you explore your feelings and how your body responds to them. These responses may be related to complex life changes, traumatic events, chemical imbalances, or thought processes. I then incorporate the client's experience with my expertise to provide an individualized plan of care. Care plans will include cultural sensitivities and gender needs.
(515) 501-5131 View (515) 501-5131
Photo of Megan Engen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Iowa
Megan Engen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anamosa, IA 52205
Specialties include: ADD/ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Gender Dysphoria, Trauma/PTSD, Mood Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, and Behavioral Disorders.
Currently accepting new clients! Megan has over 10 years experience as a nurse in a variety of inpatient and outpatient settings. Megan has been a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) since 2022, and has experience in the community mental health setting.
Specialties include: ADD/ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Gender Dysphoria, Trauma/PTSD, Mood Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, and Behavioral Disorders.
Currently accepting new clients! Megan has over 10 years experience as a nurse in a variety of inpatient and outpatient settings. Megan has been a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) since 2022, and has experience in the community mental health setting.
(319) 224-0722 View (319) 224-0722
Photo of Athena Clare Fertig, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Iowa
Athena Clare Fertig
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
I offer treatment for depression, anxiety, panic, ADHD, bipolar, OCD, PTSD, alcohol use, and many others.
Accepting new patients! I offer in person and telehealth visits and I am fully licensed in Iowa and Nebraska. My mission is to provide affordable, holistic, compassionate and comprehensive care. Now accepting many insurance plans; I also offer sliding scale option for self-pay. I take a Holistic approach, which may include referrals for therapy, nutritional counseling, ruling out environmental and medical problems that may cause symptoms, genetic testing when needed, and medications to target symptoms. I invite you to contact my office for an initial consultation.
I offer treatment for depression, anxiety, panic, ADHD, bipolar, OCD, PTSD, alcohol use, and many others.
Accepting new patients! I offer in person and telehealth visits and I am fully licensed in Iowa and Nebraska. My mission is to provide affordable, holistic, compassionate and comprehensive care. Now accepting many insurance plans; I also offer sliding scale option for self-pay. I take a Holistic approach, which may include referrals for therapy, nutritional counseling, ruling out environmental and medical problems that may cause symptoms, genetic testing when needed, and medications to target symptoms. I invite you to contact my office for an initial consultation.
(712) 458-4217 View (712) 458-4217
Photo of Alpha Allied Treatment Center, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Iowa
Alpha Allied Treatment Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309  (Online Only)
I am an independent, full practice psychiatric nurse practitioner, able to prescribe, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders. I have spent the past 18yrs getting to know patients with Bipolar, Anxiety, ADD, Addiction and integrative psychiatry care. I find this group fascinating. I am interested in patients who are vested in their own mental health. If this is you, give me a call. Ask about our non-narcotics opiates withdrawal system, called "The Bridge" device. Almost 90% success rate. We are ready to help you.
I am an independent, full practice psychiatric nurse practitioner, able to prescribe, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders. I have spent the past 18yrs getting to know patients with Bipolar, Anxiety, ADD, Addiction and integrative psychiatry care. I find this group fascinating. I am interested in patients who are vested in their own mental health. If this is you, give me a call. Ask about our non-narcotics opiates withdrawal system, called "The Bridge" device. Almost 90% success rate. We are ready to help you.
(515) 855-6659 View (515) 855-6659
Photo of Queendroline Nkeh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Iowa
Queendroline Nkeh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Coralville, IA 52241  (Online Only)
I am committed to treating a wide range of conditions from Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Binge Eating, Bipolar Disorder & Substance Abuse.
Feeling overwhelmed, or stressed? are you easily forgetful, distracted, and making careless mistakes at your job? Do you feel all over the place and jumping? You do not have to go through it alone. I can help you through this journey with ease. I am Queendroline Nkeh, A board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I approach my clients with a focus on understanding the peculiarity of their psychiatric & mental health needs. My goal is to cut through various barriers that may place limitations in getting mental health care and providing the treatment necessary to begin a client’s journey to recovery.
I am committed to treating a wide range of conditions from Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Binge Eating, Bipolar Disorder & Substance Abuse.
Feeling overwhelmed, or stressed? are you easily forgetful, distracted, and making careless mistakes at your job? Do you feel all over the place and jumping? You do not have to go through it alone. I can help you through this journey with ease. I am Queendroline Nkeh, A board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I approach my clients with a focus on understanding the peculiarity of their psychiatric & mental health needs. My goal is to cut through various barriers that may place limitations in getting mental health care and providing the treatment necessary to begin a client’s journey to recovery.
(319) 349-2840 View (319) 349-2840
Photo of Rachel D. Hart, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Iowa
Rachel D. Hart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Davenport, IA 52807
 Attending to medication management of mental health disorders, including Addiction, ADD/ADHD, childhood disorders, OCD, PTSD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, insomnia, and others, in an accepting and inclusive environment is the focus of my practice.
Valuing the environment of communication and teamwork, between client and caregiver, I encourage my clients to reach their wellness goals. Under my care, everyone receives an excellent education to fully understand care instructions.
 Attending to medication management of mental health disorders, including Addiction, ADD/ADHD, childhood disorders, OCD, PTSD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, insomnia, and others, in an accepting and inclusive environment is the focus of my practice.
Valuing the environment of communication and teamwork, between client and caregiver, I encourage my clients to reach their wellness goals. Under my care, everyone receives an excellent education to fully understand care instructions.
(319) 800-5564 View (319) 800-5564
Photo of Luna Mental Health, PLLC , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Iowa
Luna Mental Health, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
I have a special interest in anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and eating disorders, but welcome all patients with mental health concerns.
My name is Kerri Patton. I love being a nurse practitioner. I have worked as one for over 17 years. I am dual certified as both a family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I have worked in many areas over the course of my career. One theme has been present no matter the setting; all health starts and stops with mental health. My hope is to help patients find as much quality in their life as possible while improving suffering that can come along with mental illness. This is why I opened Luna Mental Health.
I have a special interest in anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and eating disorders, but welcome all patients with mental health concerns.
My name is Kerri Patton. I love being a nurse practitioner. I have worked as one for over 17 years. I am dual certified as both a family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I have worked in many areas over the course of my career. One theme has been present no matter the setting; all health starts and stops with mental health. My hope is to help patients find as much quality in their life as possible while improving suffering that can come along with mental illness. This is why I opened Luna Mental Health.
(515) 620-4413 View (515) 620-4413
Photo of Nick Stull, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Iowa
Nick Stull
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Ames, IA 50010
My role as a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is to work with adults and teens, as well as children and their families in the diagnosis and medication treatment to manage mental health symptoms. I work with patients who are diagnosed with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, ADHD, etc. I have worked in mental health in various capacities since 2003, including as a mental health outreach worker and an inpatient psychiatric nurse.
My role as a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is to work with adults and teens, as well as children and their families in the diagnosis and medication treatment to manage mental health symptoms. I work with patients who are diagnosed with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, ADHD, etc. I have worked in mental health in various capacities since 2003, including as a mental health outreach worker and an inpatient psychiatric nurse.
(515) 297-7309 View (515) 297-7309
Photo of Angela Morris, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Iowa
Angela Morris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Anamosa, IA 52205
I am a board certified medication provider who specializes in the diagnosing and medication management of ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Gender Dysphoria, Trauma, Mood Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders (OCD, PTSD, panic disorder), Autism, Schizophrenia and Behavioral Disorders. I help clients through the lifespan (3+) and have over a decade of experience in healthcare assisting individuals navigate their mental health in both hospital and clinic settings.
I am a board certified medication provider who specializes in the diagnosing and medication management of ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Gender Dysphoria, Trauma, Mood Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders (OCD, PTSD, panic disorder), Autism, Schizophrenia and Behavioral Disorders. I help clients through the lifespan (3+) and have over a decade of experience in healthcare assisting individuals navigate their mental health in both hospital and clinic settings.
(319) 500-4283 View (319) 500-4283
Photo of Erica Sloan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Iowa
Erica Sloan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, CPNP-PC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309
I am available for diagnostic evaluations for ADHD and anxiety disorders, to prescribe and manage associated medications, and to provide referrals to additional therapies, such as mental health therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy.
The decision to seek evaluation and medication support for your child is complex and often emotional. I desire to help families understand all options in a supportive, caring environment where both children and their caregivers feel comfortable in asking questions and sharing concerns. In planning for your child's support, I understand that there are many factors to consider, including family dynamics, school performance, peer relationships, behaviors, nutrition, sleep, and overall wellness. I believe collaborating with families to create a well considered plan is imperative for successful outcomes.
I am available for diagnostic evaluations for ADHD and anxiety disorders, to prescribe and manage associated medications, and to provide referrals to additional therapies, such as mental health therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy.
The decision to seek evaluation and medication support for your child is complex and often emotional. I desire to help families understand all options in a supportive, caring environment where both children and their caregivers feel comfortable in asking questions and sharing concerns. In planning for your child's support, I understand that there are many factors to consider, including family dynamics, school performance, peer relationships, behaviors, nutrition, sleep, and overall wellness. I believe collaborating with families to create a well considered plan is imperative for successful outcomes.
(515) 824-0953 View (515) 824-0953
Photo of Erika Bales, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Iowa
Erika Bales
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309  (Online Only)
I can help you find relief from symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, sleep issues, postpartum issues, OCD, PTSD, and many more.
Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed? Taking the first step towards healing can be daunting, but you're not alone on this journey. I am here to help guide you towards a more fulfilling life with symptom relief. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Together, we will create an effective treatment plan tailored to you. I combine evidence-based techniques with a holistic approach, taking into account your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. My goal is to support you in restoring and maintaining a healthier state of mind.
I can help you find relief from symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, sleep issues, postpartum issues, OCD, PTSD, and many more.
Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed? Taking the first step towards healing can be daunting, but you're not alone on this journey. I am here to help guide you towards a more fulfilling life with symptom relief. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Together, we will create an effective treatment plan tailored to you. I combine evidence-based techniques with a holistic approach, taking into account your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. My goal is to support you in restoring and maintaining a healthier state of mind.
(515) 325-1363 View (515) 325-1363
Photo of Elizabeth Brake, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Iowa
Elizabeth Brake
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Sioux City, IA 51103
Accepting NEW Patients! We can usually get new patients in within a WEEK! We specialize in high quality telemedicine, personalized ADHD treatment, treatment for anxiety, PTSD, depression, OCD, and some substance abuse! We accept most insurances and have discount self pay options. We offer comprehensive assessments and customized treatment plans, we work hard to improve your quality of life.
Accepting NEW Patients! We can usually get new patients in within a WEEK! We specialize in high quality telemedicine, personalized ADHD treatment, treatment for anxiety, PTSD, depression, OCD, and some substance abuse! We accept most insurances and have discount self pay options. We offer comprehensive assessments and customized treatment plans, we work hard to improve your quality of life.
(712) 430-1810 View (712) 430-1810
Photo of Natalie Christensen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Iowa
Natalie Christensen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, FNP-C, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50010  (Online Only)
I am a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing in the family practice setting since 2016 providing chronic disease management, including mental health care. I developed a passion for mental health, specifically the perinatal population. I have an understanding of how chronic health conditions, including mental health, can affect all aspects of our lives and be interconnected. I provide medication management services via telehealth to women 18+ in the state of Iowa. I offer treatment for anxiety, depression, ADHD, and some sleep disorders.
I am a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing in the family practice setting since 2016 providing chronic disease management, including mental health care. I developed a passion for mental health, specifically the perinatal population. I have an understanding of how chronic health conditions, including mental health, can affect all aspects of our lives and be interconnected. I provide medication management services via telehealth to women 18+ in the state of Iowa. I offer treatment for anxiety, depression, ADHD, and some sleep disorders.
(515) 717-7823 View (515) 717-7823
Photo of Dr. Thomas Koithan, Psychiatrist in Iowa
Dr. Thomas Koithan
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Urbandale, IA 50322
AREAS OF FOCUS: ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Eating Disorder Issues, Life Adjustment Concerns/Issues, Loss and Grief, Mood Disorders/Depression, OCD, PTSD, Relationship Issues, Substance Abuse, and TMS/BrainsWay.
Dr. Koithan is a leading board-certified psychiatrist practicing in the greater Des Moines area since 1993.
AREAS OF FOCUS: ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Eating Disorder Issues, Life Adjustment Concerns/Issues, Loss and Grief, Mood Disorders/Depression, OCD, PTSD, Relationship Issues, Substance Abuse, and TMS/BrainsWay.
Dr. Koithan is a leading board-certified psychiatrist practicing in the greater Des Moines area since 1993.
(515) 373-7253 View (515) 373-7253
Photo of Sheri DiGiacinto, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Iowa
Sheri DiGiacinto
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Urbandale, IA 50322
I am particularly passionate about working with concerns regarding: •Neurodivergence •LGBTQIA+ Care •Women's Issues •Trauma and Complex Trauma •Deprescribing •Depression/Anxiety •Kids, Teen, and Young Adult Struggles •Dyslexia •ADHD •Nervous System Regulation.
If you are looking for down-to-earth, compassionate, mental health care from someone who actually listens, we may be a good fit! As a Vanderbilt-trained, board certified mental health nurse practitioner, I take a holistic, inclusive approach to mental health. I am a neurodivergent provider and especially enjoy working with neurodivergent folx, the LGBTQIA+ community, and teens!
I am particularly passionate about working with concerns regarding: •Neurodivergence •LGBTQIA+ Care •Women's Issues •Trauma and Complex Trauma •Deprescribing •Depression/Anxiety •Kids, Teen, and Young Adult Struggles •Dyslexia •ADHD •Nervous System Regulation.
If you are looking for down-to-earth, compassionate, mental health care from someone who actually listens, we may be a good fit! As a Vanderbilt-trained, board certified mental health nurse practitioner, I take a holistic, inclusive approach to mental health. I am a neurodivergent provider and especially enjoy working with neurodivergent folx, the LGBTQIA+ community, and teens!
(515) 446-7284 View (515) 446-7284
Photo of Reflective Minds Mental Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Iowa
Reflective Minds Mental Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309  (Online Only)
Appointment Request: www.headway.co/providers/clarence-johnson Openings within a week! Now treating ADHD as well! As a compassionate and highly-skilled psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am committed to providing exceptional care to individuals who are struggling with mental health issues. With extensive training and experience in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health disorders, I strive to empower my patients to achieve optimal mental wellness and improve their overall quality of life.
Appointment Request: www.headway.co/providers/clarence-johnson Openings within a week! Now treating ADHD as well! As a compassionate and highly-skilled psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am committed to providing exceptional care to individuals who are struggling with mental health issues. With extensive training and experience in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health disorders, I strive to empower my patients to achieve optimal mental wellness and improve their overall quality of life.
(301) 478-8609 View (301) 478-8609
Photo of Ellie Rizor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Iowa
Ellie Rizor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Norwalk, IA 50211
Please Note: Ellie practices in IA and MM. Ellie is a board certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who received her Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the University of Minnesota. She works primarily with children, adolescents, and young adults with special interests in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, depression and anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. Ellie believes in advocating for her clients' academic success and has an understanding of the impact mental health can have on educational experience
Please Note: Ellie practices in IA and MM. Ellie is a board certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who received her Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the University of Minnesota. She works primarily with children, adolescents, and young adults with special interests in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, depression and anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. Ellie believes in advocating for her clients' academic success and has an understanding of the impact mental health can have on educational experience
(319) 318-6487 View (319) 318-6487
Photo of David Kelbaugh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Iowa
David Kelbaugh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309  (Online Only)
Specializing in prescribing and managing psychiatric medications, I work closely with you to find the most effective and appropriate medication options to manage and treat a wide range of mental health concerns including but not limited to: ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, PTSD, & mood disorders.
Hello! I am David, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and the creator and owner of Clear Mind Mental Health. My experience is in private practice and acute behavioral health care. I'm passionate about truly listening to you and developing customized treatment plans to address your whole health - mind, body, and spirit. My holistic, personalized approach considers your unique needs and goals, and provides comprehensive mental health care from the comfort of your own home. Presently seeing patients in Washington state and Iowa.
Specializing in prescribing and managing psychiatric medications, I work closely with you to find the most effective and appropriate medication options to manage and treat a wide range of mental health concerns including but not limited to: ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, PTSD, & mood disorders.
Hello! I am David, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and the creator and owner of Clear Mind Mental Health. My experience is in private practice and acute behavioral health care. I'm passionate about truly listening to you and developing customized treatment plans to address your whole health - mind, body, and spirit. My holistic, personalized approach considers your unique needs and goals, and provides comprehensive mental health care from the comfort of your own home. Presently seeing patients in Washington state and Iowa.
(608) 422-4565 View (608) 422-4565
ADHD Psychiatrists

When should I seek treatment for ADHD?

You should seek treatment for ADHD if you consistently have difficulty with attention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity that interferes with your daily life. Symptoms of ADHD include the inability to sustain attention during tasks, difficulty organizing tasks and activities, being easily distracted, frequent fidgeting or squirming, and talking or interrupting excessively. If these symptoms interfere with your career, academics, or relationships—for example, consistently failing to complete professional projects on time—you should seek an evaluation for ADHD.

How does treatment for ADHD work?

Effective treatment for ADHD often consists of medication, behavioral therapy, and lifestyle changes. Stimulant medications such as Adderall and Ritalin work by altering levels of neurotransmitters in the brain; higher levels of dopamine and norepinephrine are known to improve attention and focus. Therapy works by helping people with ADHD understand the condition, discuss their areas of difficulty, and develop behavioral strategies to manage their symptoms. In some cases, modifying one’s diet and exercise can also help improve symptoms.

Are there specific medications for ADHD?

Medications to treat ADHD are generally stimulants, the most common are Adderall and Ritalin. There are two categories of stimulants: Amphetamines include Adderall, Dyanavel, Vyvanse, and Dexedrine, and methylphenidates include Ritalin, Concerta, Daytrana, Focalin, Quillichew, Quillivant, and Metadate. Non-stimulants and antidepressants may be used as an alternative if stimulants aren’t effective or viable for a particular patient.

How long does treatment for ADHD take?

It’s tough to give an exact time frame because everyone varies. In terms of medications, stimulants begin to work very soon after you take them, generally within the hour. It may take time to identify the right medication and dosage, but the medication itself is fast-acting. In terms of therapy, it takes time to develop skills and put them into practice, but you will likely see improvements within a few weeks or months.