ADHD Therapy in Edmonton
Learn about ADHD
What is ADHD (Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)?
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition affecting how the brain manages attention, impulse control, and activity levels.
Often diagnosed in childhood, ADHD can persist into adulthood, shaping how individuals think, feel, and interact with the world around them.
ADHD is not a sign of laziness, lack of intelligence, or bad behavior — it reflects a different way the brain processes information and responds to stimulation.
Types of ADHD:
Predominantly Inattentive Type: Difficulty sustaining focus, organizing tasks, and following through on details.
Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type: Excessive movement, impulsivity, talking over others, difficulty staying seated or still.
Combined Type: A mix of both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms.
Each presentation requires a tailored approach to treatment and support.
Key Characteristics
Distractibility
Easily pulled away by external stimuli, thoughts, or surroundings.
Forgetfulness
Frequently misplacing items, missing appointments, or losing track of tasks.
Poor Time Management
Struggling to estimate how long tasks will take or to prioritize effectively.
Impulsivity
Making quick decisions without considering consequences; interrupting conversations.
Emotional Regulation Challenges
Intense emotional reactions, mood swings, or frustration.
Restlessness
Feeling internally or physically fidgety and unable to fully relax.
Causes and risk factors
Genetics: Anxiety often runs in families.
Brain chemistry: Imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine.
Life experiences: Trauma, stress, or significant life changes.
Personality factors: People who are more sensitive or perfectionistic may be more prone.
How ADHD evolves over time
Children
In early childhood, ADHD symptoms often present as noticeable hyperactivity — children may constantly be moving, climbing, talking, or fidgeting. Following instructions can feel overwhelming, leading to incomplete tasks or misunderstood directions at school or home. Impulsivity is also common, resulting in blurting out answers, interrupting conversations, or difficulty waiting their turn. Many children with ADHD are daydreamers, becoming easily lost in their thoughts and struggling to stay engaged with structured activities. These challenges can impact school performance, peer relationships, and family dynamics if left unaddressed.
Teens
As children with ADHD move into their teenage years, physical hyperactivity often decreases — they may no longer be constantly on the move — but inner restlessness remains. Teens may still struggle to stay organized, meet deadlines, manage long-term assignments, or balance multiple responsibilities like school, part-time work, and friendships. Emotional regulation can also become more challenging, with increased sensitivity to rejection, frustration, or perceived failures. Risk-taking behaviors, such as reckless driving, substance use, or impulsive decision-making, can emerge during this stage. Many teens with ADHD face growing academic and social pressures, often leading to feelings of underachievement or self-doubt if their ADHD is misunderstood.
Adults
In adulthood, ADHD symptoms often shift again. While outward signs of hyperactivity may no longer be obvious, many adults experience a persistent sense of mental restlessness, racing thoughts, or the feeling of being “always on the go” internally. Chronic disorganization, time-blindness (losing track of time), procrastination, and difficulty starting or completing tasks are common challenges. Forgetfulness — like missing appointments, misplacing important items, or losing track of commitments — can interfere with work and relationships. Adults with undiagnosed or untreated ADHD may struggle with maintaining steady employment, balancing household responsibilities, managing finances, or sustaining long-term relationships. Emotional challenges like impatience, frustration, low self-esteem, and feelings of being “different” or “not living up to potential” are also common.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing ADHD involves several steps:
Clinical Interviews: Exploring symptoms across multiple environments (school, home, work).
Behavioral Rating Scales: Completed by the individual, family, or teachers to assess symptom severity.
Observations: Looking for patterns of inattentiveness, impulsivity, or hyperactivity.
Important Diagnostic Criteria:
Symptoms must be present before age 12 (even if diagnosed later).
Symptoms must persist for at least six months.
Symptoms must interfere with functioning in two or more settings (e.g., home and school).
Diagnosis is about understanding the full context, not labeling occasional distractibility.
Treatment Options
ADHD treatment usually includes a combination of:
Medication: Stimulant medications (like Ritalin, Adderall) and non-stimulants can help balance brain chemistry affecting focus and impulse control.
Behavioral Therapy and Coaching: Teaching skills for time management, organization, emotional regulation, and coping strategies.
Psychoeducation: Understanding ADHD empowers individuals to leverage their strengths and develop targeted supports.
Lifestyle Supports:
Regular physical activity (enhances focus and mood)
Sleep hygiene practices
Balanced, brain-healthy diet
Mindfulness and relaxation strategies
Treatment is highly individualized to meet each person’s specific needs and goals.
Strengths of People with ADHD
ADHD is often associated with powerful natural abilities, including:
Creativity and Innovation: Out-of-the-box thinking and dynamic problem-solving.
High Energy and Enthusiasm: Passion and drive that can be channeled into major achievements.
Hyperfocus: Intense focus on areas of genuine interest, leading to extraordinary results.
Resilience: Strength developed through overcoming challenges.
Big Picture Thinking: Natural intuition for strategy, possibilities, and new ideas.
Many entrepreneurs, artists, and leaders credit ADHD for fueling their boldness and success.
Our approach
At Crossroads Psychological & Wellness, we embrace the truth that ADHD is not a limitation — it’s a different kind of brilliance.
Through individualized treatment, education, and compassionate support, we help clients transform challenges into opportunities for success.
You deserve to live with confidence, creativity, and clarity.
We’re here to help you harness your potential and thrive.
