Adult ADHD Treatment

Research increasingly links ADHD and early trauma. Big and little trauma can affect a growing nervous system. Executive functions (EFs) in particular. That's why EF skills training alone often fails. Effective therapy takes your whole history into consideration, beginning with the intake assessment process. 

Treatment with Dr. Bike is designed to both

  • support you in getting to-do's done through a self-management approach. This builds confidence for continued progress.
  • and to deepen self-understanding and -acceptance through somatic practices. Softening how you feel about yourself. Treating yourself more gently. Finding patience for what you may not be able to change (such as organic EF interference and chronic pain). When your relationship with your Self shifts, new possibilities can open up.

For some, untreated trauma interferes with EFs, mimicking ADHD. For others, trauma-related stress worsens ADHD symptoms.

So, we'll begin with the intake process. This helps us see connections between past experiences and current symptoms. After the assessment, we'll have a diagnosis and treatment plan discussion. If we both think there's a fit, we'll proceed to treatment: weekly or twice weekly sessions together.

Does this sound like you (or someone you care about)?

Trouble starting and persisting on daily tasks

Hyperfocusing and losing track of time

Procrastinating big tasks because you don't know where to start and feel overwhelmed

Problems controlling your temper and managing stress

Being distracted by thoughts or outside interruptions

Losing friends because you're late, you flake, or you withdraw

Forgetting appointments and important dates

Difficulty prioritizing multiple projects and to-do’s

ADHD and Executive Functions

Experts increasingly view ADHD as an executive function (EF) disorder. Simply put, EFs are the mental skills that help you get things done. Planning and organizing, for instance. Starting and finishing tasks. Even managing your emotions. These higher order skills help you get through the day independently. As a result, many do not recognize the symptoms until they become adults. 

ADHD is not a problem with knowledge or volition. 

You know what to do. And you want to do it. 

But your brain won't let you take the steps.

Is Adult ADHD real?

People may say, “We all have problems focusing. Get over it. Life is stressful, and everyone gets behind.” This is true, to a point. At our most stressed and over-scheduled, all adults may temporarily fall into these patterns. But, for adults with attention problems, these issues are chronic. Even when the pressure's off, the brain will not cooperate for what seem to be simple tasks. For adults with ADHD, however, tasks requiring executive functions are anything but simple.

View this video by Russell Barkley for more insight about attention problems and executive functions.

Contact Dr. Denise Bike at 443-961-4690.

We'll discuss your questions.

 And you can schedule an appointment.

NOTE: Dr. Bike does NOT specialize in bipolar disorder, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, current abuse, eating disorders, or addictions. HOWEVER, other clinicians do. If any of those are part of your experience, continue your therapist search to find a good match for your needs.
In network (INN)?

Dr. Bike's practice accepts Aetna and CareFirst insurance. You can contact your insurance provider for benefits and copay information.

ADHD orchid
Out of network (OON)?

Your credit card (kept on file) will be charged the evening of each appointment. Call your insurance provider for reimbursement answers.