When your child struggles to keep up at school or has difficulties staying focused and organized, they may have an attention deficit disorder. Shaping Your Future Psych offers a custom treatment plan, including behavior therapy and medications, to address the symptoms of these conditions and enhance your child’s success at home and at school. Learn more about available treatment options for ADD and ADHD by calling Shaping Your Future Psych.

What are ADD and ADHD?

Attention deficit disorder (ADD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are common childhood conditions that have similar symptoms and affect your child’s ability to sit still and concentrate.

We can diagnose your child’s condition based on the type of symptoms they experience and the severity of these symptoms. Typically, the inability to pay attention or stay focused on an activity relates to ADD. If your child also exhibits symptoms, such as an inability to sit still for a period of time or a tendency to perform impulsive actions, your child may have an ADHD diagnosis.

What are other common symptoms of ADD and ADHD?

Typically, symptoms of ADD and ADHD appear before the age of 12 and are common in more than one setting, such as at home or school or during extracurricular activities or social occasions.

In ADD, the tendency to lose focus may also accompany symptoms like:

  • Forgetfulness
  • Concentration issues
  • Inattention to details
  • Inability to stay organized
  • Difficulty following directions

With ADHD, your child may find it difficult to sit still, especially in school. They tend to fidget frequently and may feel the need to run around or climb furniture at inappropriate times. You may also notice your child talks excessively and often interrupts others.

How are ADD and ADHD diagnosed?

Because symptoms of ADD and ADHD can be similar to other underlying medical conditions, We will perform a thorough evaluation of your child’s symptoms and behaviors. It can help the diagnosis if you can provide a list of symptoms and behaviors your child has exhibited over the course of several months.

We may also want to speak with your child’s teacher and other caregivers who are familiar with your child and their behaviors. He also reviews your child’s medical history to rule out other underlying conditions.

What treatment options are available for ADD and ADHD?

We offer a variety of ADD and ADHD treatment options that he customizes to fit your child’s needs. His treatment plan depends on the severity of your child’s symptoms and may include one or a combination of treatments like:

  • Medication
  • Parent training
  • Family counseling
  • Behavior therapy
  • Educational support

We work closely with your child’s doctor, teachers, and your family as a whole to ensure you child has the support they need to change their behaviors and succeed academically and socially.