
ADHD-Informed Couples and Family Therapy
As a clinic specializing in the treatment of clients living with ADHD, our therapists and interns provide both ADHD-informed couples and family therapy. Therapy in this framework is grounded in an understanding of the complex interplay between relational conflicts and the emotional self-regulation difficulties, challenging behaviors, impulsivity and poor consequential thinking, and rejection sensitivity that may be present in family members with ADHD. Our therapists work with couples and families to understand the impact of ADHD symptoms on the couple/family relationships and help clients to develop collaborative, proactive solutions to resolve conflict or problems in the functioning of the relationship or family system. Here are potential benefits of ADHD-informed couples or family therapy:
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Increased Understanding of ADHD: Family or partners gain a better understanding of ADHD as a neurodevelopmental disorder rather than seeing problematic behaviors as personal flaws or signs of disrespect. Our therapists work to educate everyone about how ADHD manifests and help reframe negative assumptions about each other’s actions, intentions, and emotions. In family therapy, our clinicians also provide parenting support to help manage the impact of ADHD on the family system.
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Support with Organization and Time Management: Partners or family members can play a supportive role by helping with strategies for planning, organizing, and managing time effectively. Our therapists help the family set up systems that make it easier for the person with ADHD to meet responsibilities, while also promoting agency and autonomy.
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Developing Empathy and Patience: ADHD symptoms, such as inattention or forgetfulness, can sometimes be misinterpreted as laziness or a lack of care. Â We encourage family members to develop empathy and patience, recognizing that these behaviors are not intentional, strengthening emotional bonds and reducing the potential for resentment and misunderstanding.
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Conflict Resolution Skills: ADHD can increase impulsivity, inflexibility, and emotional reactivity, which can lead to arguments. Our clinicians work with clients to develop constructive ways to handle disagreements, teaching skills for pausing, active listening, and de-escalating tensions.
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When ADHD affects one member of a family or couple, everyone can be impacted. ADHD-informed couples and family fosters teamwork and brings everyone onto the same page, leading to better outcomes for the individual with ADHD and improved functioning at home, school or work, and in the community.Â
