diagnosis and treatment for ADHD Archives

What Every High School and College Kid Needs to Know About Their ADHD Medication

August 2, 2020August 2, 2020

As High School and College students embark on their journey into a new school year, whether in-person/on-campus, virtually, or a combination of both, I’d like to offer this very important reminder regarding ADHD stimulant medication, and its use, misuse, overuse, and safekeeping. We know that a significant number of kids take stimulants, either not prescribed to them or prescribed inappropriately, in an effort to deal with academic pressures. Some also use stimulants as part of a weight-loss strategy or to … Read more

ADHD Diagnosis, Therapy, & Treatment Guide

July 27, 2020July 26, 2020

Science has come a long way in the last decade. Mainstream medical, psychological, and educational organizations have concluded that ADHD is a real, brain-based medical disorder. Getting a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment can significantly improve the lives of those who struggle. This guide will help clarify what is involved in getting a proper diagnosis and the various treatment options that have been recognized as effective. What is involved in a proper diagnosis? A proper diagnosis is dependent on a … Read more

Maybe it IS ADHD – Does it Really Matter?

July 21, 2020July 20, 2020

I am often asked if I think ADHD is over-diagnosed. My answer – yes. I also believe it is underdiagnosed. The problem is that there is still not one agreed-upon cohesive and comprehensive protocol for diagnosing ADHD; a real, life-impacting disorder that affects a significant percentage of people. And yet there are still many practitioners who do not include an ADHD screening in their assessments. I believe, and evidence supports, there are enormous lifelong risks to mental health, physical health, employment, … Read more

Introduction to Dyslexia

May 2, 2020May 2, 2020

Given the prevalence of dyslexia co-occurring with ADHD, I thought parents would like to know more about dyslexia. While some researchers say 30-40% of individuals with dyslexia may have ADHD, other researchers say it is likely much higher. Furthermore, many students with learning differences are struggling during online schooling related to COVID-19. Both student and parent are experiencing increased frustration as these students may struggle with independent learning. I have therefore asked a licensed psychologist, Dr. Cynthia Johnson, if she … Read more

Interesting New Treatment Idea for Treating ADHD

April 27, 2020

Here is something interesting, and a possible opportunity for you and your family.Last year I had the opportunity to consult with the Akili Interactive team as they prepared to introduce their new program, Endeavor™- A Digital Attention Treatment. It is designed to help parents support their kids with ADHD. During my three days with them, I had the opportunity to learn about the research and science behind their program. I walked away intrigued and optimistic that what the Akili Interactive … Read more

What is Involved in Getting an Evaluation for ADHD and Learning Disabilities?

November 8, 2019November 6, 2019

Now that the school year is in full swing, I am often asked by parents if they should seek an evaluation for their child to address concerns that either they have or that someone at their child’s school has raised. I have asked a licensed psychologist, Dr. Cynthia Johnson, if she could answer a few questions to help parents determine when, where, and how to go about having their child evaluated. If a parent tells you that his or her … Read more