Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental condition characterized by ongoing struggles with focus, excessive activity levels and impulsivity.
ADHD symptoms frequently arise in childhood and often persist into adulthood. There are three main subtypes of ADHD:
Predominantly Inattentive Type (ADD)
Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type
Combined Type
Getting properly diagnosed and treated can help take control of disruptive ADHD symptoms before they derail your potential. Renewing Mindsets provides specialized ADHD and ADD testing, medication management, therapy and more for residents of Philadelphia, the Main Line and surrounding suburbs.
ADHD vs. ADD
The core symptoms of ADHD include:
Inattention
Difficulty paying attention to details
Forgetfulness and disorganization
Avoiding tasks that require focus
Getting easily distracted and losing things
Hyperactivity
Fidgeting excessively and squirming
Nonstop talking and interrupting
Constant motion and “on the go”
Trouble sitting still and waiting turns
Impulsivity
Impatience and impulsive actions
Frequent interruptions
Blurting out comments
Taking risks without considering consequences
The predominantly inattentive type used to be called ADD. People with this subtype have significant difficulty sustaining focus but do not display hyperactive or impulsive behaviors.
Effective treatment is crucial for managing ADHD symptoms before they spiral out of control. Renewing Mindsets provides testing and care for all types of ADHD and ADD.
Impact of Untreated ADHD
When left undiagnosed and unmanaged, ADHD can negatively affect virtually every aspect of life. Potential consequences include:
Struggles with learning, testing and school performance
Work related problems with productivity, focus and organization
Strained relationships due to impulsiveness and emotional reactivity
Increased risks for substance abuse, accidents and traffic violations
Co-occurring disorders like anxiety, depression and learning disabilities
Low self-esteem and lack of self-confidence
Seeking testing and treatment is an act of courage and self-care that can dramatically improve daily functioning and quality of life.
Comprehensive ADHD and ADD Testing
The first step toward treatment is confirming an ADHD or ADD diagnosis through formal assessment. Renewing Mindsets provides complete evaluations based on gold standard medical protocols. Our process includes:
Clinical interviews – Thorough review of symptoms, challenges, health history.
Standardized testing – Formal assessment of memory, concentration, problem solving and attention.
Questionnaires – Rating scales completed by the patient, parents, teachers, spouses, etc.
Direct observations – Tracking hyperactivity, focus and organizational skills during testing sessions.
Medical review – Physical exam and lab work to check for other potential causes.
Mental health screening – Evaluating for co-occurring mood disorders, learning disabilities and more.
Our experienced mental health professionals and psychiatric nurse practitioners take the necessary time to accurately diagnose all types of ADHD and ADD. Testing can be conducted in-person or via telehealth when appropriate. We have multiple office locations throughout Philadelphia and the Main Line for convenience.
Finding Effective Treatment for ADHD and ADD
Once diagnosed, various treatment options are available to manage ADHD and ADD symptoms. Renewing Mindsets creates customized treatment plans which may include:
Medication management – Stimulant and non-stimulant medications can effectively control symptoms when prescribed properly.
Cognitive behavioral therapy – Learning organizational, social, coping and behavioral skills.
ADHD coaching – Developing routines, structure and accountability.
Skills training – Building abilities to sustain focus, manage stress, control impulses.
Treating co-occurring disorders – We address anxiety, depression, OCD, ODD, learning disabilities, etc.
Lifestyle optimization – Improving sleep, nutrition, exercise, productivity habits.
Our collaborative team of mental health professionals work together to find the right treatments tailored to each patient’s needs and preferences.
Key Factors in ADHD and ADD Treatment
There is no universal treatment that works for everyone. The optimal approach depends on the individual. Considerations include:
What are your main symptoms and problem areas?
Would medication help improve focus, activity levels or impulse control?
Is ADHD coaching needed for structure, planning and motivation?
Would therapy help build coping skills and change behaviors?
Are there co-occurring disorders like mood or learning disorders?
What lifestyle changes may help with sleep, diet, exercise or productivity?
The ADHD specialists at Renewing Mindsets guide patients through weighing options to determine the best treatments based on unique needs, goals and circumstances. We adjust interventions over time as needed.
Recognizing ADHD and ADD in Women and Girls
While ADHD affects both genders equally, females often present differently than males. Women and girls tend to exhibit:
Forgetfulness and disorganization more than poor listening
Inner restlessness rather than external hyperactivity
Excessive talking and frequent interrupting
Low frustration tolerance and anger control issues
Impaired self-esteem and relationship problems
Due to subtler symptoms, ADHD and ADD in females is frequently overlooked, leading to challenges at school, jobs, parenting and more. Our providers receive specialized training in diagnosing and treating ADHD and ADD in women and girls.
Signs of ADHD and ADD in Children
ADHD symptoms generally emerge between ages 3-6 but may be noticeable as early as preschool. Common signs in children include:
Constant fidgeting, squirming and “on the go”
Excessive talking and inability to play quietly
Little regard for safety rules
Losing schoolwork, toys or other items
Trouble focusing on schoolwork or play
Difficulty following instructions and forgetfulness
Disorganization and messy bedroom/desk
Early intervention provides the best chance to gain control over symptoms before major impairments develop. Our child mental health professionals and psychiatric nurse practitioners have expertise in assessing and treating young ADHD and ADD patients.
ADHD and ADD Treatment Considerations for Children
Treating ADHD and ADD in children requires a multifaceted approach such as:
Parent training – Teaching parenting strategies for structure, rewards and consequences.
School support – Collaborating with teachers on instruction methods, accommodations and services.
Social skills training – Helping kids read social cues, self-regulate behavior and build friendships.
Medications – Stimulants and non-stimulants help improve concentration, motivation and impulse control.
ADHD coaching – Providing organization, time management, planning and motivation.
Behavioral therapy – Replacing problematic behaviors with healthy coping techniques.
The right combination of interventions can help gain control over symptoms and thrive in school and socially.
Choosing an ADHD and ADD Specialist in Philadelphia
Getting quality treatment from an experienced specialist significantly improves outcomes. Look for these traits:
ADHD expertise – Extensive specific experience diagnosing and treating all types of ADHD and ADD.
Multimodal care – Provides medication, therapy, coaching, training, etc.
Collaborative – Works jointly with schools, families and other providers.
Comprehensive testing – Thorough evaluations based on medical standards.
Ongoing support – Doesn’t just prescribe medications, but provides education and progress monitoring.
Personalized care – Gets to know the patient and creates customized treatment plans.
The ADHD and ADD specialists at Renewing Mindsets exhibit these qualities. We partner with patients to provide skills, support and solutions throughout diagnosis and treatment.
Hope for Adults with ADHD and ADD
Seeking testing and treatment for ADHD or ADD as an adult can feel challenging but brings immense hope. With proper diagnosis and personalized care, most patients achieve dramatic relief from disruptive symptoms and improvements in daily life. Renewing Mindsets offers real solutions through expert assessments, medication management, therapy for coping skills, ADHD coaching and more. Take control of your ADHD or ADD by calling us today.
Conclusion
If you or someone you love struggles with focus, forgetfulness, restlessness, disorganization or impulsivity, contact Renewing Mindsets for an evaluation and care. Our experienced child, adolescent and adult mental health professionals provide comprehensive testing, medication management, therapy, coaching, training and support for all types of ADHD and ADD. We have several convenient offices in Philadelphia, the Main Line are near to Radnor, Ardmore, Media, Newtown Square and surrounding suburbs. Our individualized approach helps patients and families renew their mindset and thrive. Call (484) 948-5400 today to schedule an appointment.
