Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a brain-based disorder originating in childhood that affects about 10% of children and 4% of adults worldwide. There are three types of ADHD: 

1. Inattentive type

2. Hyperactive or impulsive type

3. Combined inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive type (most common)

Everyone struggles with concentration and focus at times, but people with ADHD experience significant difficulty across many areas of life, often resulting in consequences beyond their control.

Western is here to help with all three types of ADHD!

We offer services to adult, adolescents, and children at each of our Western sites across the Portland/Vancouver area. 

Our ADHD Program includes several components:

1. Standardized assessment

2. Science-informed treatment options

3. Coordination of care

Children & Adolescents

All Western clinicians who work with children are trained and experienced in assessing childhood ADHD. We use a standardized assessment process that includes teacher and parent assessment scales, clinical interviews, and supporting documentation. 

We have ADHD Specialists at each Western site, if you prefer a clinician who has additional training. Just request an ADHD Specialist when you call for the evaluation.

We will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that could include:

• Group treatment focused on ADHD
• Parent training that is specific for raising a child who has ADHD and/or
• Medication evaluation

For kids with ADHD, we offer a group that provides a positive perspective on the uniqueness of the ADHD brain. Fun and interactive, this group teaches kids how to use their 'superpowers' to improve many aspects of their lives that are affected by ADHD. We also offer a parent workshop that provides an overview of ADHD and raising a child with this unique brain.

For parents looking for more support and guidance, we offer a parenting group at some sites that is helpful for dealing with the challenges of raising a child with ADHD.

Check the Group Therapy listing for current offerings at a site near you.

Western has therapists in many elementary, middle, and high schools in the Portland metropolitan area. We have added ADHD-specific groups in schools to aid children with ADHD. This includes common struggles such as homework completion, organization, friendships, and emotional regulation.

Adults

Western has ADHD Specialists who are trained in evaluating and treating adult ADHD. Our standardized assessment includes self-report scales, clinical interviews, collateral reports, and supporting documentation. 

Group therapy has been shown to be an effective behavioral treatment for adult ADHD. Our ADHD specialists offer Skill Building groups for strategic living and mindfulness groups to improve emotional regulation, memory and attention.

Check the Group Therapy listing for current offerings at a site near you.

Medications and ADHD

Psychiatric medications are considered a well-established, effective treatment for ADHD. Research suggests that 75% of children with ADHD will benefit from the use of psycho-stimulant medications. 

Western has psychiatric medical staff who can provide a consultation to make recommendations regarding medications. While medications are often recommended, Western does not require medications to participate in the program.

If psychiatric medications are pursued, Western pairs psychiatric services with other therapeutic interventions. If someone is only interested in psychiatric medications, we are probably not the best provider. Your health plan can tell you about psychiatrists or psychiatric nurse practitioners who take your plan. You may also work with your Primary Care Provider or Pediatrician on these medications. 

For more information on ADHD

Everything you need to know about ADHD (from www.additudemag.com):

https://www.additudemag.com/what-is-adhd-symptoms-causes-treatments/