Psychotherapy for ADHD
An integrative approach that goes beyond quick fixes
From a psychoanalytic standpoint, ADHD is understood not only as a neurobiological condition, but also as a meaningful expression of inner emotional life. Rather than focusing solely on attention, impulsivity, or hyperactivity as isolated symptoms, this perspective asks: What might these behaviors be communicating?
Psychoanalytic theory suggests that difficulties with focus, restlessness, or impulsivity may stem from deeper internal conflicts, unmet developmental needs, or early relational experiences. For example, chronic distractibility might reflect an unconscious avoidance of painful feelings or thoughts, while hyperactivity can be seen as a defense against anxiety or emotional overwhelm.
This approach doesn't deny the biological aspects of ADHD, but it expands the conversation. It invites exploration of the individual’s unique emotional world—how they experience time, frustration, desire, and regulation. In therapy, the goal is not to “fix” behavior, but to understand the meaning behind it, helping individuals develop greater self-awareness, emotional resilience, and agency.
If the usual ADHD strategies haven’t worked, we can look a little deeper.
If you’ve found that coaching-style ADHD approaches haven’t quite worked for you, you’re not alone.
We can take a second look at what might be getting in the way.
Some aspects of ADHD tend to be overlooked in more conventional approaches.
I aim to bring these into focus as part of our work together.
Our exploration can include things like:
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Many people with ADHD struggle with getting to sleep or staying asleep at night. Oftentimes this is linked to racing thoughts and difficulties slowing the mind down for rest.
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ADHD and perfectionism often come hand in hand. Having unrealistic standards can develop from years of masking executive dysfunction. This can lead to taking on too much at once, burnout, or procrastination.
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Women and girls with ADHD often learn to mask their struggles—appearing capable or high-achieving while quietly feeling overwhelmed. They may experience intense emotions, difficulty with organization and follow-through, and a persistent sense of self-doubt, especially when these challenges are misunderstood or dismissed. Over time, this can lead to chronic shame and an increased vulnerability to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.
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Sometimes symptoms related to emotional dysregulation and impulsivity can lead to relationship disruption. These types of ADHD challenges can impact relationships of all kinds, including at work, with friends, family, and a partner.
Common Questions
I don’t have an ADHD diagnosis. Can we still work together?
Absolutely. If you don’t have a formal diagnosis we can do an assessment to find out more about your symptoms. Either way, the treatment will be tailored towards your needs, diagnosis or not.
What is the difference between ADHD therapy and coaching?
Coaching often focuses on very practical strategies and accountability. Therapy can include that, but also explores the emotional side of ADHD, like shame, perfectionism, relationship issues, burnout, and other longterm patterns.
Can you diagnose ADHD?
No. As a Registered Psychotherapist I’m not able to make a formal diagnosis. Instead, we can do an assessment together and I can support you in finding appropriate resources for a formal diagnosis if needed.
Will you go beyond strategies and tools?
Yes. Many of my clients have sought out ADHD therapy before and have been left feeling as though they didn’t go deep enough. Even though practical strategies can be helpful, we’ll take it a step further and work together to understand that’s really getting in your way.
