What ADHD therapy involves
Psychological work for ADHD focuses on managing symptoms and the difficulties they cause day to day. NICE guidance in the UK says psychological treatment for adults with ADHD should include, as a minimum, a structured supportive intervention focused on ADHD with regular follow-up, and may involve elements of or a full course of CBT.
For young people who have benefited from medication but still have significant difficulties, NICE suggests considering CBT that addresses areas such as social skills and problem-solving.
ADHD support at different ages
- Children: parents come first, to share developmental history and concerns, and stay involved as therapy progresses
- Teenagers: confidential sessions on self-esteem, academic stress, emotional regulation and behaviour
- Adults: structured CBT and DBT interventions for the difficulties ADHD causes at work, in study and in relationships
- Parents: psychoeducation and parenting skills training
Parents of children with ADHD
NICE is explicit that recommending parent training does not imply bad parenting. Its aim is to build the skills that meet the above-average parenting needs of children with ADHD. Angela supports parents through psychoeducation, parenting skills training and guidance.
Written by Angela Barhouch, licensed clinical psychologist and psychology instructor at the American University of Beirut. Last updated November 2026. This page is general information and doesn't replace an individual assessment.