ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects millions of individuals worldwide. It is characterized by symptoms such as difficulty with focus, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Advancements in technology have made therapy more accessible via online therapy platforms, but can online therapy really help someone with ADHD? Let's explore this question.
ADHD and Online therapy
People with ADHD often struggle with maintaining focus, organization, and time management which can affect areas of life such as academic/occupational performance, maintaining relationships, and managing daily tasks. Traditional treatment approaches involve a combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle adjustments. However, each person's needs and preferences may vary.
There are quite a few advantages to the online format of therapy such as accessibility, convenience, flexibility, and anonymity. These factors are typically beneficial for neurotypical people, however, these factors sometimes can affect neurodivergent people differently. For example, someone with ADHD might benefit from a commute to therapy as it builds in a natural transition to their routine as they travel to their appointment, which can help to properly calibrate their focus for the session. Though it might be convenient for all people not to travel to their session, it might be more difficult for a person with ADHD to transition from a previous task and maintain focus as easily as they would if they changed their environment.
Tailoring Online Therapy for ADHD
While online therapy shows promise for managing ADHD, it's crucial to consider a tailored approach for the specific needs of neurodivergent individuals with ADHD. Here are a few suggestions:
Structured Approach:
Online therapy can benefit individuals with ADHD through structured treatment plans and strategies. This may include setting clear goals with timelines, creating routines, and developing organization techniques in collaboration with the therapist.
Take advantage of technology:
Utilize technology tools that can assist with ADHD management, such as reminder apps, organization apps, or time management apps. Individuals with ADHD may struggle with punctuality and time management. Request that your therapist enable multiple forms of appointment reminders to give you ample reminders of upcoming sessions. Discuss these tools with your therapist to incorporate them into your therapy sessions effectively.
Use visual aids:
Visual aids, such as charts, calendars, or reminder apps, can be useful tools for individuals with ADHD. Discuss with your therapist how visual aids can be incorporated into your therapy sessions to enhance focus, organization, and understanding. Some therapists can share their screens with handouts or enable a collaborative whiteboard to deepen communication and understanding of concepts.
Skill Building:
Therapists can teach individuals with ADHD practical skills and coping mechanisms to manage symptoms effectively. Such skills can include time management techniques, organizational strategies, and tools to improve focus and attention. Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques to aid with common ADHD experiences such as overwhelm or task paralysis.
Collaboration with Healthcare Providers:
It's important to remember that therapy is just one part of an overall treatment plan for ADHD. Collaborating with healthcare providers, such as psychiatrists or primary care physicians, can enhance the effectiveness of online therapy by incorporating medication management when necessary.
Considerations and Limitations
While online therapy can be effective for many individuals with ADHD, it may not be the best fit for everyone. Some limitations to consider are:
Severity of Symptoms:
Online therapy may be more suitable for individuals with mild to moderate symptoms. Those with severe symptoms or additional mental health concerns may benefit from in-person therapy, where the therapist can provide more immediate support and intervention.
Technological Challenges:
Adequate internet access, a reliable device, and proficiency with technology are essential for successful engagement in online therapy. Individuals who struggle with technology may find it challenging to fully participate in online sessions.
Environmental factors:
For some, it can be difficult to maintain privacy in their place of residence, which can make it difficult to be comfortable with vulnerability in sessions. Some people with ADHD also have greater difficulty maintaining engagement and focus with a screen as opposed to speaking to someone in person.
Begin Working with An ADHD Therapist in Asheville, NC
Online therapy has the potential to help individuals with ADHD by offering convenience, accessibility, flexibility, and anonymity. When combined with personalized treatment plans, technological advancements, visual aids, skill-building strategies, and collaboration with healthcare providers, it can be a valuable tool in managing ADHD symptoms. However, everyone is different, so consider an individual's unique needs and the severity of their symptoms when considering therapeutic formats. If you’re curious about treatment for managing ADHD and would like to more reach out to us for a free consultation.
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Other Services Offered with Strive On Counseling
Mindfulness/CBT aren’t the only treatment options our team offers. As Asheville therapists, we understand that every individual has a unique set of mental health needs. This is why we are happy to offer many forms of therapy. More specifically, our services include individual counseling, anxiety treatment, EMDR trauma therapy, therapy for men’s issues, mindfulness, Buddhist counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy, teletherapy / online therapy. Some other resources we offer include guided meditations, supplements, a list of books and other useful resources, and online courses. If you would like more information about any of these services, please reach out today, and start doing therapy in North Carolina!