Frequently Asked Questions

The help that is available to those with ADHD is medication management from a psychiatrist (if wanted) and talk therapy at Calm Clarity Therapy incorporating executive functioning skills and cognitive behavioral skills and/or group therapy options to build support. 

I specialize in helping adults with ADHD find balance and clarity. Our targeted online sessions focus on key areas such as organizing your daily life, mastering emotional regulation, and enhancing social and personal relationship skills.

At Calm Clarity Therapy, we offer holistic support for anxiety management, integrating mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and nature-based approaches. Our sessions focus on empowering individuals to take control of their schedules and boundaries, prioritize self-care, and reduce overall stress impact. Through targeted interventions and positive coping skills, we help clients develop resilience and cultivate a sense of calm amidst life's challenges.

Walk & talk therapy is effective because it combines physical activity with therapeutic conversation, resembling a mini form of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). This unique approach enables clients to process thoughts and emotions as they engage in side-by-side conversations with their therapist, creating a less intimidating environment that fosters deeper exploration of issues and the initiation of skill-building strategies.

You do not need any diagnosis to access therapy services. Deciding whether to get tested for ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) and/or Autism depends on your specific situation and the challenges you are facing. Here are some considerations and potential benefits of getting tested:

ADHD Testing Benefits:

Understanding Your Challenges: ADHD testing can provide clarity on difficulties related to attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.

School Accommodations: If you are a student, a diagnosis can lead to accommodations such as extended time for exams or specialized learning plans.

Workplace Support: In a professional setting, accommodations might include modified work environments or flexible scheduling.

Treatment Options: A diagnosis can guide appropriate treatments such as medication or behavioral therapy, improving daily functioning.

Autism Testing Benefits:

Understanding Social and Communication Challenges: Autism testing can help explain difficulties with social interactions, communication, and behavior.

Educational Support: For students, a diagnosis can lead to individualized accommodations or specific teaching strategies tailored to your needs.

Workplace Accommodations: In a work environment, accommodations might include adjustments to tasks, work environment, or communication methods.

Access to Services: A diagnosis may provide access to services and supports aimed at improving social skills, independence, and quality of life.

Considerations:

Personal Insight: Testing can provide a clearer understanding of your strengths and challenges, which can be empowering and help you develop strategies for success.

Validation: A diagnosis can validate your experiences and provide a framework for self-acceptance and understanding.

Legal Protections: In some cases, a formal diagnosis may be necessary to access certain legal protections or accommodations.

Together we can help determine if testing is appropriate and guide you through the process. Ultimately, the decision should be based on how much clarity and support you feel you need to navigate your academic, work, and personal life more effectively.

For individuals seeking therapy to address ADHD or anxiety, the duration of treatment can vary based on several factors, including the severity of symptoms, individual progress, and therapeutic approach. However, here's a general guideline:

ADHD:

Typically, therapy for ADHD focuses on skill-building and developing coping mechanisms to manage symptoms effectively. This process is often more structured and goal-oriented. Many individuals find significant improvement within a relatively short period, typically ranging from 8 to 12 weeks. During this time, clients work closely with their therapist to identify specific strategies tailored to their needs.

After the initial intensive phase, clients may transition to monthly maintenance sessions, gradually reducing the frequency of appointments as they become more adept at implementing learned skills independently. The goal is to empower individuals to navigate daily challenges with greater confidence and self-awareness.

Anxiety:

Therapy for anxiety often involves a combination of cognitive-behavioral techniques, mindfulness practices, and exploration of underlying triggers. Unlike ADHD therapy, addressing anxiety may require more time for individuals to practice and internalize new skills effectively.

A typical course of therapy for anxiety may span 12 to 16 weeks, allowing sufficient time for clients to learn and apply coping strategies in various situations. As with ADHD therapy, the frequency of sessions may decrease over time as clients gain mastery over their anxiety symptoms.

In both cases, the ultimate aim of therapy is to equip individuals with the tools and insights needed to manage their symptoms independently and lead fulfilling lives. However, it's essential to remember that every person's journey is unique, and the duration of therapy may vary based on individual needs and progress. Therapists collaborate closely with clients to tailor treatment plans and adjust the pace of therapy accordingly, ensuring optimal support and progress.

Yes, ADHD is recognized as a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, specifically Section 504. This recognition is an important aspect of ensuring rights and accommodations for people with ADHD.

Some research shows that caffeine might help a bit with focus and staying alert if you have ADHD. But, it's important to remember that caffeine isn't a treatment for ADHD, and we don't have enough proof to say it really works for this. Also, if you're taking ADHD medication, caffeine can sometimes interfere with it, so it's something to be careful about.

There are plenty of ways to manage symptoms of ADHD without relying on medication. This can include getting better sleep, eating healthy, exercising regularly, and trying new approaches to your daily tasks. It's different for each person, so experimenting with these strategies one by one can help you find what works best for you.