Attention Deficit Disorder Association

Short answer: there’s no single “best” non‑medication option — the right choice depends on whether you’re an adult or parent of a child, what problems you want to fix (attention, procrastination, organization, emotional regulation), your budget, and whether you want coaching (skills-based) or psychotherapy (evidence‑based treatment). Two approaches have the best track record without medication: ADHD‑adapted Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) — evidence‑based psychotherapy that teaches practical strategies for time management, organization, procrastination, and emotion regulation. ADHD / executive‑function coaching — skills and habit coaching focused on routines, planning, and accountability (less clinical, more practical). Recommended providers and services (why they’re worth considering) Hallowell Centers — clinics founded by Drs. Ned Hallowell and John Ratey. Known for ADHD expertise, they offer coaching, psychotherapy, and skills training with clinicians who specialize in ADHD and often offer medication‑free strategies. Inflow (inflowhealth.com) — an online ADHD program with courses, community, and one‑on‑one ADHD coaching. Good if you want a structured online program plus coaching from ADHD‑focused staff. ADHD Coaches Organization (ADHDC/O) directory — a searchable directory of credentialed ADHD coaches. Use it to find coaches trained specifically in ADHD coaching standards (good for finding a qualified coach near you or remotely). ADD Coach Academy (ADDCA) alumni coaches — ADDCA trains many professional ADHD coaches; searching for coaches who trained there often yields competent, experienced coaches. CHADD and ADDA (Attention Deficit Disorder Association) — excellent nonprofit resources with directories, local support groups, training, and referrals for both therapists and coaches. Psychology Today / GoodTherapy filters — to find licensed CBT therapists who list ADHD as a specialty. Ask prospective therapists whether they use “CBT adapted for adult ADHD” or “executive‑function skills training.” For parents of children: local behavioral therapists who provide parent training and behavioral therapy, or programs listed through CHADD/your pediatric center. Some telehealth clinics (e.g., Brightline, although check current services) offer behavioral and coaching support without medication. How to choose between coaching vs therapy Choose ADHD‑adapted CBT if you want an evidence‑based clinical approach for persistent functional impairment, anxiety/depression alongside ADHD symptoms, or measurable symptom reduction. Choose ADHD coaching if you primarily want help building routines, organizing tasks, time management, and accountability; coaching is practical and often faster but is less research‑based for symptom reduction than CBT. You can combine both: many people do therapy for emotional regulation and CBT, plus a coach for day‑to‑day implementation. Practical next steps Tell me whether this is for you or a child, and whether you want remote or in‑person care. I can give more specific local or age‑appropriate recommendations. If you want to start now: search the ACO directory for a credentialed coach, or use Psychology Today to find “ADHD‑specialized CBT” therapists and ask them whether they use ADHD‑adapted CBT. Consider an online program like Inflow if you prefer structured lessons + remote coaching. If you tell me your age, location (or “remote ok”), and main goals, I’ll recommend 2–3 concrete providers or clinicians to contact.

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To get diagnosed with adult ADHD, you should schedule an evaluation with a licensed mental health professional or physician (such as a psychiatrist, clinical psychologist, neurologist, or family doctor) who specializes in ADHD: [1][5][7]. Key Steps in the Diagnosis Process Initial Consultation and Screening Start by talking to your primary care provider. They can perform an initial screening using validated tools like the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) or refer you to a specialist: [1][4][6]. Be aware that online tests are not diagnostic; they only indicate if you should follow up with a professional: [4]. Comprehensive Clinical Evaluation The evaluation typically requires at least two visits to explore symptoms, confirm persistence, and rule out other conditions: [1]. You will undergo a thorough review of your personal, medical, and psychiatric history from childhood to the present: [3][5]. Childhood onset is required: Several symptoms must have been present before age 12. This often requires corroboration from a parent, spouse, or other informant: [1][3][5]. Diagnostic Criteria (DSM-5) To be diagnosed, an adult must present with at least five symptoms of inattention and/or hyperactivity/impulsivity: [1][4]. These symptoms must persist for at least six months: [1][4]. Symptoms must cause measurable impairment in at least two settings (e.g., work and home): [1][4][5]. The diagnosis must not be better explained by another condition (e.g., anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, or learning disabilities): [1][4][7]. Collateral Information and Testing Clinicians often seek collateral information from spouses, partners, or colleagues to confirm current dysfunction: [1][3]. If there are concerns about learning disabilities or the timing of onset, a referral to a neuropsychologist for specialized testing (e.g., vigilance tests) may be recommended: [2]. There is no single medical test (blood test, genetic test, or brain scan) to diagnose ADHD; it is determined entirely by clinical evaluation: [2][4][5][7]. Recommended Professionals to Contact Psychiatrists (medical doctors specializing in mental health): Prescribe medication and diagnose. Clinical Psychologists: Provide extensive testing and diagnosis. Neurologists: Specialize in brain-related disorders, including ADHD. Family Doctors or General Practicians: Can screen and refer to specialists: [1][5]. Action Item: Contact your health insurance provider or use a directory like CHADD.org or the Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADD.org) to find a specialist in your area who evaluates adult ADHD: [5][4].

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