ADHD

ADHD and ADD Treatment in Toronto

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) are common neurodevelopmental conditions that impact focus, behaviour, and learning. While these conditions are often associated with children and teens, they can persist into adulthood, affecting work, relationships, and day-to-day life.

At its core, ADHD can make it challenging to regulate attention, manage impulses, or sit still for long periods. For those living with it, tasks that seem “simple” to others—like focusing on a conversation, completing a project, or remembering small details—can feel exhausting and frustrating.

Recognizing ADHD/ADD Symptoms

ADHD and ADD can look different for everyone, but they generally involve symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.

Inattention Symptoms:

  • Difficulty staying focused on tasks or conversations
  • Trouble listening, even when spoken to directly
  • Struggling to follow through on assignments or complete tasks
  • Being easily distracted by noises, thoughts, or external stimuli
  • Avoiding or disliking activities that require sustained effort (e.g., paperwork, schoolwork)

Hyperactivity and Impulsivity Symptoms:

  • Feeling restless, unable to sit still for long periods
  • An unusually high level of energy or constant movement
  • Frequent fidgeting (tapping hands, feet, etc.)
  • Interrupting conversations or talking excessively
  • Difficulty respecting social boundaries, such as waiting your turn or reading cues

These symptoms are more than just occasional struggles—they can impact school, work, relationships, and self-esteem. If this feels familiar to you or your child, know that help is available.

Getting Diagnosed

ADHD isn’t something that you “just grow out of,” and an official diagnosis is often the first step to getting the right support. A trained psychologist or psychiatrist can diagnose ADHD by:

  • Reviewing medical history and family background
  • Understanding current symptoms and their impact on daily life
  • Assessing attention, behavior, and impulsivity through clinical interviews and standardized measures

Diagnosis isn’t about labeling—it’s about understanding what’s going on so we can help you or your child thrive.

Diagnosis

How is ADHD/ADD Treated?

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to treating ADHD and ADD, but effective treatment often involves a combination of therapy, skills-building, and sometimes medication.

  • Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Therapy can help individuals better understand how ADHD affects their lives. CBT focuses on improving time management, organizational skills, and problem-solving while building confidence and reducing negative thought patterns.
  • Psychotherapy and Adaptation Strategies: Learning strategies to work with your brain’s strengths can make a huge difference. This might include creating routines, improving task management, or breaking down goals into manageable steps.
  • Medication: For some, medication can significantly reduce symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity. Medications like stimulants or non-stimulants are often used in conjunction with therapy to provide well-rounded support.

The right treatment plan is tailored to each person’s unique needs, challenges, and goals.

We’re Here to Help

ADHD and ADD can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. At the Cognitive & Interpersonal Therapy Centre (CITC), our highly trained therapists work with clients of all ages to create practical, personalized treatment plans.

We offer in-person therapy in Toronto and virtual therapy across Ontario, making it easier to access support wherever you are. Whether you’re seeking a diagnosis, looking for strategies to manage symptoms, or simply feeling unsure about where to start, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact us today to speak with one of our therapists and take the first step toward understanding and managing ADHD.

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We Are Here to Help!

Schedule a call with one of our health care coordinators to answer your questions and help you find the best solutions for you and your loved ones!.

Consult With a Therapist Today!