Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Treatment and Therapy Center in Fort Lauderdale, South Florida

What Causes ADHD?

Recent studies link genetic factors with ADHD. ADHD research also looks into the impact of brain structure and injuries and environmental factors, like exposure to substances like lead during pregnancy or early childhood. Furthermore, the use of alcohol and tobacco during pregnancy, premature delivery, and low birth weight are also being explored as potential contributors to the development of ADHD.²

While the exact cause of ADHD is not fully understood, it’s believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors. Understanding the multifaceted nature of these factors can provide valuable insights into the origins and development of this neurodevelopmental disorder, as well as inform non-pharmacological interventions for ADHD.

Furthermore, it’s important to note that scientific research contradicts common beliefs that factors like excessive sugar consumption, prolonged television watching, parenting styles, or socio-environmental conditions such as poverty or family disarray primarily cause ADHD. While these factors may exacerbate symptoms, especially in specific individuals, the evidence is insufficient to establish them as the primary causes of ADHD.²

Predominantly Inattentive Presentation (Attention-Deficit Disorder)

The predominantly inattentive subtype of ADHD is characterized by significant difficulties in sustaining attention and focus. Individuals with this presentation may struggle with task completion, overlook details, and make careless mistakes. Challenges in organization and time management are prominent, accompanied by forgetfulness regarding daily activities. Overt hyperactivity may not be apparent, and individuals may appear dreamy, forgetful, and easily distracted instead.⁴

Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation

ADHD hyperactive-impulsive subtype exhibits restlessness, high physical activity, impulse control struggles, and fidgeting. Common features include making impulsive decisions and interrupting others. Targeted interventions and understanding are necessary to address the unique challenges posed by these behaviors. Not all individuals with ADHD showcase hyperactivity, but those with this subtype require specific attention.⁵

Combined Presentation

The combined presentation features a blend of both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms. Individuals with this subtype face difficulty sustaining attention and completing tasks and may display restlessness and impulsivity. Struggling with organization, forgetfulness, and making hasty decisions, they navigate a complex interplay of symptoms that impact various aspects of their daily lives.

Common Signs

• Frequent careless mistakes
• Forgetfulness
• Seemingly unable to listen or follow through on instructions
• Short attention span
• Difficult organizing and completing tasks

Individuals with hyperactivity-impulsivity may showcase the following:

• Impulsive decision-making
• Restlessness
• Difficulty engaging in activities quietly
• Excessive talking
• Little to no sense of danger

It’s essential to recognize that not everyone with ADHD will exhibit all these symptoms, and their severity can vary. Moreover, these signs should be persistent and disruptive to daily functioning to warrant an ADHD diagnosis. Seeking professional evaluation is crucial for accurate diagnosis and developing effective strategies for managing the challenges associated with ADHD.⁷ Contact our hotline number today if you or someone you love is showing signs or symptoms of ADHD.

Partial Hospitalization Program for ADHD

A Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) for ADHD is an intensive, structured treatment option that provides individuals with a supportive environment while allowing them to return home in the evenings. This program is particularly beneficial for those requiring more than outpatient care but who do not need the 24/7 supervision of inpatient treatment.

Individuals attending a PHP for ADHD typically engage in a combination of ADHD-informed therapy, including individual and group therapy, psychoeducation, and skill-building sessions. The goal is to provide comprehensive support, address specific challenges, and equip individuals with the tools needed to manage their ADHD symptoms effectively.

Intensive Outpatient Program for ADHD

An Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for ADHD offers a strategic middle ground between traditional outpatient care and more intensive options like inpatient medical treatment centers. IOPs involve comprehensive treatment and support while allowing independence to maintain daily routines and responsibilities. Participants engage in a mix of therapeutic activities for several hours daily, including individual counseling, group therapy, and psychoeducational sessions.

The primary focus of an IOP is to equip individuals with ADHD with practical skills, coping mechanisms, and tailored strategies to manage the specific challenges associated with the disorder. This involves delving into the individual’s unique experiences and addressing areas of difficulty, such as attention management, impulse control, and organizational skills. The flexibility of an IOP ensures that individuals can actively participate in their therapeutic journey without the need for full-time residential care, fostering a supportive environment that promotes personal growth and effective symptom management.

Outpatient Program for ADHD

An outpatient programs services for ADHD provides a flexible, less intensive treatment option for individuals seeking support for the disorder. Unlike more intensive programs, outpatient programs allow individuals to attend scheduled therapy sessions and receive treatment while residing at home and maintaining responsibilities. Outpatient programs are suitable for those who don’t require constant supervision but can benefit from regular therapeutic interventions.

These programs often involve individual counseling, group therapy, and psychoeducational sessions, focusing on addressing specific challenges associated with ADHD, such as organizational difficulties, time management, and impulse control. The outpatient treatment center allows individuals to apply the skills learned in therapy to their daily lives, promoting a gradual integration of coping strategies and behavioral interventions. This flexibility enables participants to balance managing their ADHD symptoms and fulfilling their everyday responsibilities.

Residential Treatment for ADHD

Residential treatment for ADHD involves a live-in setting and comprehensive care and support for managing the disorder. While the Sylvia Brafman Mental Health Center doesn’t provide inpatient services, we offer assistance with accommodations, particularly for individuals traveling from out of state. This can be especially beneficial for those seeking comprehensive ADHD treatment in need of temporary living arrangements.

In a residential treatment facility, individuals can immerse themselves in a therapeutic environment, participating in a range of tailored interventions to address the specific challenges associated with ADHD, including a combination of individual counseling, group therapy, educational support, and skill-building sessions. An inpatient treatment center fosters focused attention on the individual’s needs, creating a supportive space for developing coping strategies and refining behavioral skills.

• Start with Online Research: Use search engines like Google or Bing. Enter keywords like “ADHD treatment center Florida” or “EMDR ADHD therapy near me.”
• Use Online Directories: Explore online directories of mental health and therapy providers, like Psychology Today, GoodTherapy, or TherapyDen, which allow you to search for therapists and mental health treatment centers by location and specialty.
• Consult Referrals: Consult your primary care physician, other healthcare providers, or trusted friends and family for recommendations on local ADHD treatment centers or therapists.
• Contact Your Insurance Provider: Check with your provider for a list of in-network ADHD therapy and treatment centers if you have health insurance.
• Use Local Health Directories: Search for ADHD treatment centers and providers through local healthcare directories, both online and in print.
• Reach Out to Mental Health Organizations: Reach out to mental health organizations, such as your state’s mental health department or local chapters of national organizations like NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) and SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration). These entities frequently have directories encompassing various mental health services, providing valuable resources for those seeking support.
• Search on Social Media: Consider checking social media platforms such as Facebook groups or local community forums where people often share recommendations.
• Visit University and Medical School Centers: Nearby universities or medical schools may have specialized ADHD therapy clinics that provide evidence-based treatments and high-quality care.
• Check Online Reviews: When seeking ADHD therapy, reading online reviews and ratings can offer valuable insight into the experiences of others but should be taken with a grain of caution.
• Visit the Treatment Center: Visiting the facility you’re considering can offer first-hand insights into the staff, treatment environment, and more.

Behavioral Therapy

Behavioral therapy focuses on modifying and reshaping behaviors associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. This therapeutic approach operates on the premise that learned behaviors can be targeted and altered through positive reinforcement and skill-building. Behavioral therapy for ADHD often involves setting clear, achievable goals, implementing structured routines, and employing strategies to manage impulsivity and improve attention.⁸

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a widely utilized therapeutic approach that proves particularly effective in addressing the challenges associated with ADHD. This form of therapy operates on the premise that thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected, and by identifying and modifying negative thought patterns, individuals can bring about positive changes in their actions.⁹

CBT for ADHD typically involves setting clear goals, developing strategies to manage time and tasks, and challenging negative self-perceptions. Through structured sessions, individuals learn to identify triggers for impulsive behavior, understand the consequences of actions, and develop alternative, more constructive responses. CBT equips individuals with practical tools to enhance attention, improve organizational skills, and build effective coping mechanisms. By fostering a deeper understanding of the interplay between thoughts and behaviors, CBT empowers individuals with ADHD to navigate their daily lives with greater self-awareness and control.

Parent Training and Education Programs

Parent training and education programs are integral to the holistic treatment of ADHD, acknowledging the pivotal role you play in supporting your child’s journey with the disorder. These programs educate parents on ADHD’s neurodevelopmental aspects and provide practical strategies for creating a structured, supportive home environment.

Parenting a child with ADHD is challenging, and these programs empower parents to navigate these challenges by covering topics like behavior management and effective communication. By enhancing parent-child relationships and fostering understanding, these programs contribute to a positive environment that promotes the overall well-being and success of children managing ADHD symptoms.¹⁰

Executive Function Coaching

Executive function coaching addresses the specific challenges individuals with ADHD face in areas such as organization, time management, and planning. Coaches work collaboratively with clients to identify their unique strengths and weaknesses in executive functions, developing tailored strategies to enhance cognitive skills. This form of ADHD coaching is highly individualized, focusing on practical, real-world applications to improve daily functioning.

Through executive function coaching, individuals with ADHD gain valuable tools to navigate work, school, and daily life demands. Coaches support setting and achieving goals, breaking tasks into manageable steps, and implementing organizational systems. By honing executive function skills, individuals can enhance their effectiveness, mitigate challenges associated with ADHD, and build a foundation for sustained success in various aspects of their lives.¹¹

Psychodynamic Therapy

Psychodynamic therapy, while not as commonly associated with ADHD treatment, offers valuable insights into the emotional and relational aspects of the disorder, particularly for ADHD in adults. This therapeutic approach delves into the unconscious dynamics influencing our behavior and symptoms. Psychodynamic therapy explores underlying emotional patterns, unresolved conflicts, and the impact of past experiences on current challenges.

Through the therapeutic relationship, individuals with ADHD can gain a deeper understanding of how emotional factors may contribute to their symptoms. Psychodynamic therapy provides a space for self-reflection and insight, allowing individuals to uncover and process emotions that may impact their attention, impulsivity, and relationships. While it may not be the primary intervention for managing ADHD symptoms, psychodynamic therapy can complement other therapeutic modalities, contributing to a more comprehensive, nuanced approach to treatment.

Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques

Mindfulness and relaxation techniques play a significant role in the holistic approach to managing ADHD symptoms. Rooted in practices like meditation and deep breathing, these techniques aim to cultivate a heightened awareness of the present moment and promote a sense of calm. Incorporating mindfulness practices can enhance attention, reduce impulsivity, and improve emotional regulation.

Psychoeducation

Psychoeducation is a vital element in ADHD treatment, providing individuals and their families with comprehensive insights into the disorder. These programs offer valuable information on the neurobiological aspects of the condition, its impact on behavior, and evidence-based interventions. Knowledge about medication management and behavioral strategies fosters informed decision-making and enhances control and effective coping mechanisms for managing ADHD.

Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy is a valuable component of ADHD treatment, focusing on improving everyday functioning and independence. Therapists work with individuals to address challenges related to sensory processing, motor skills, and organizational abilities. This therapeutic intervention aims to enhance attention, concentration, and self-regulation through targeted activities.

By honing these practical skills, individuals with ADHD can navigate daily activities more effectively, promoting greater independence and success in various aspects of their lives. Occupational therapy serves as a holistic approach, addressing the symptoms and the practical skills needed for optimal functioning.