At Serebro Health, we often hear from adults wondering if they might have ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder). If you’re reading this, you might be one of them; an adult who was never assessed as a child but has always felt like something wasn’t quite clicking.
Maybe you were gifted in school, coasting by with good grades without needing to apply yourself. Then, one day, whether in high school, university, or juggling a career and family, it all became too much. You’ve experienced burnout (maybe more than once) and told yourself countless times that this time you’ll finally get your life on track. You’ll stick to your to-do lists, exercise regularly, and pay better attention at work. But as soon as the motivation wears off, so do the plans.
If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. As a therapist with ADHD, I understand the rollercoaster all too well. The good news? Once you recognize your symptoms and develop tools to navigate life’s ups and downs, the ride gets a lot smoother and dare I say, even enjoyable.
Can a Psychotherapist Diagnose ADHD?
Here’s the honest truth: Registered Psychotherapists, like me, cannot provide an official ADHD diagnosis. If you’re looking for accommodations at work or school, or access to medication, you’ll need a diagnosis from a Psychologist or Psychiatrist.
However, these official assessments often come with two major barriers: cost (ranging from $1,000 to $2,000) and long wait times. While these assessments are thorough and necessary for certain purposes, they’re not always accessible.
What a Psychotherapist Can Do
While we can’t provide an official diagnosis, psychotherapists can offer an unofficial ADHD assessment. Think of it as a more structured and professional version of an online quiz, helping you determine whether it’s worth pursuing a formal diagnosis.
We’ll ask questions about your symptoms, daily challenges, and strengths, providing insight into whether ADHD might be at play. If it seems likely, we can guide you on the next steps for seeking an official assessment.
At Serebro Health, we also offer therapy specifically tailored to managing ADHD symptoms which is a key part of treatment with or without a diagnosis. You’ll receive a personalized toolkit of strategies to help with focus, time management, emotional regulation, and daily overwhelm. We don’t just talk about ADHD; we work with you to navigate it with confidence, using practical tools that align with your lifestyle and goals.
We also recognize that ADHD often comes with years of accumulated shame from being misunderstood, struggling to meet expectations, or constantly being told that you have "so much potential." In therapy, we unpack these emotional layers too, so that you’re no longer held back by old narratives or internalized criticism. Healing from that shame is just as important as building new skills.
Life After an ADHD Diagnosis
An official diagnosis can open doors to treatments like medication, which is a game-changer for many people with ADHD. But medication is just one piece of the puzzle.
ADHD impacts:
- Executive Functioning: Planning, organizing, and completing tasks.
- Attention Regulation: Sustaining focus on activities, especially those that require prolonged mental effort.
- Impulse Control: Managing sudden urges and emotional responses.
It can make daily life feel overwhelming. However, ADHD also comes with strengths, such as creativity, hyperfocus on areas of interest, and high energy when managed effectively.
The Role of Therapy in ADHD Management
Therapy focuses on building the skills and strategies you need to thrive with ADHD. A psychotherapist can help you:
- Develop Tools: Create systems for organization, time management, and focus.
- Reframe Challenges: Address shame and trauma that may have built up over the years of struggling without a diagnosis.
- Strengthen Relationships: Improve communication and rebuild connections that may have been strained.
- Regulate Emotions: Practice emotional regulation techniques to reduce overwhelm and stress.
- Leverage Strengths: Discover how to channel your creativity and hyperfocus into areas that bring joy and fulfillment.
Therapy also offers something you won’t find in a self-help book or online resource: a safe, supportive space where someone understands your challenges, cheers you on, and keeps you accountable.
Alternative Paths to an ADHD Diagnosis
If you’re ready to pursue an official diagnosis, here are some accessible options:
- Start with Your Family Doctor: They can refer you to psychiatrists, psychologists, or specialized clinics for ADHD assessments.
- Specialized Clinics in Ontario:
- Adult ADHD Centre: Provides assessments and treatment plans for adults across Canada.
- Beyond ADHD: Offers virtual assessments and treatment options.
- Frida: An online clinic for ADHD assessments and therapy services.
These clinics often offer virtual services, making them accessible regardless of location. Be sure to check whether their services are covered by your provincial health plan or if you’ll need to pay out of pocket.
- Resources for ADHD Support:
The Bottom Line
Whether you’re seeking an official ADHD diagnosis or learning to manage life with ADHD, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. While a diagnosis is an essential first step for some, the real change happens in the work of managing ADHD day-to-day. Therapy can provide the tools, support, and accountability to help you live a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Take the Next Step
If you suspect you have ADHD or have recently been diagnosed, we’re here to help. At Serebro Health, we offer tailored therapy to support individuals with ADHD, helping you build confidence, manage challenges, and embrace your strengths.
Contact us today to start your journey toward greater focus, organization, and emotional well-being. Let’s work together to make the rollercoaster ride of ADHD a lot more fun and a lot less overwhelming.
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