February 2007

In this newsletter:
• Fast Help: Overview of Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
• Therapist Q&A
• Clinic Announcements

Overview of Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
Today we hear a lot about ADHD (Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder), in the media and from our schools. It’s helpful to know what ADHD is and to be aware that there are treatment options available. People with ADHD struggle with inattentiveness, as well as hyperactivity or impulsivity, or both. People with ADHD might describe it as "the channels constantly flipping in [my] brain," feeling constantly distracted, forgetful, or feeling the need to talk or fidget constantly. Oftentimes, people with ADHD aren't aware of the problem, and ADHD behaviors are usually recognized by others such as family members or teachers. ADHD can affect children, adolescents, and adults. ADHD is usually diagnosed in childhood but many adults have never been diagnosed.

There is help for those struggling with ADHD. Testing and an in-person psychological assessment can determine the presence of ADHD. If needed, a referral can be made to a physician for medication management and follow-up. A behavioral plan can be very useful for people with ADHD as this helps them to stay on task with daily activities. Individual and family therapy can also provide the needed support to all those who are affected by ADHD.

A list of symptoms includes:
•difficulty maintaining attention or feeling easily distracted
•difficulty staying on task or completing projects
•trouble with organization or misplacing important items
•difficulty remembering appointments
•inability to sit still/quietly for long periods of time, feeling restless or fidgety
•feeling as if driven by a motor
•talking excessively in social situations
•difficulty waiting for a turn

If you feel you or a loved one may be struggling with ADHD, call today for an assessment so that we may assist you in developing a treatment plan that is right for you.

Therapist Q&A
When is it a good time to seek counseling?
People vary in their ability to cope with life's stressors, so the answer will vary from person to person. However, it’s important to seek help as soon as you recognize you’re experiencing problems, as it can become more difficult to deal with the problem if you’re at the end of your rope.

Common reasons people seek counseling:
•depression
•anxiety
•substance abuse (alcohol and/or other drugs including prescription drug abuse)
•career or job dissatisfaction
•academic concerns
•marital or relationship issues
•domestic violence
•eating disorders
•grief/loss of a loved one
•adjustment issues/life transitions
•parenting difficulties
•problems within one's social network

Usually people seek counseling once they realize issues are impeding their ability to function in one or more areas. For example, marital stress or substance abuse issues can carry over into one's job and cause a loss of productivity or attendance. Conversely, issues at work often will spill over into one's relationships. A trained therapist can thoroughly assess complicated issues, their effects, and to assist in creating an appropriate treatment plan geared toward problem resolution.

Clinic News
We will be sending an email towards the end of the month with some HUGE clinic news. Stay tuned!!!

We are accepting new clients at this time. If you know of anyone who you think would benefit from counseling or a consultation with us, please have him or her give us a call. We thank you in advance for any referrals you provide.