ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects a child's ability to focus, stay organized, regulate impulses, or manage engagement levels. However, with the right tools, children can build skills to thrive at home, school, and beyond. At Thriving Minds, our experienced therapists specialize in empowering children with ADHD and their families through effective strategies and evidence-based treatments.
Why Identifying the Type of ADHD Matters
Understanding the type of ADHD your child has is key to tailoring effective treatment strategies. For example: Inattentive Type: May benefit most from organizational tools and strategies like checklists and timers. Hyperactive-Impulsive Type: May require movement breaks and activities that channel energy in positive ways. Combined Type: A blended approach of structure, behavior management, and coping skills can be most effective.
Types of ADHD
Inattentive Presentation
Children with the inattentive type of ADHD primarily struggle with sustaining attention, organizing tasks, and following through on instructions. They may seem forgetful or easily distracted by their surroundings. Interestingly, these children can often focus intensely on tasks they enjoy, such as playing a video game or drawing, but struggle to maintain the same level of attention for less-preferred activities like homework or chores.
Signs of Inattentive ADHD:
Frequently losing track of items like school supplies or toys.
Appearing not to listen when spoken to directly.
Difficulty organizing tasks or activities, often leading to incomplete work.
Avoiding tasks that require sustained mental effort.
Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation
This type of ADHD is characterized by high energy levels and difficulty controlling impulses. Children with ADHD Hyperactive-Impulsive Type may appear to be constantly "on the go," acting before thinking or struggling to remain seated when required. Their impulsivity can lead to interrupting others or difficulty waiting their turn in games or conversations.
Signs of Hyperactive-Impulsive ADHD:
Fidgeting, tapping hands or feet, or squirming in their seat
Running or climbing in situations where it's inappropriate
Blurting out
Struggling to wait for their turn in games or group activities
Combined Presentation
The combined type is the most common form of ADHD, where symptoms of both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive types are present. Children with this type may struggle with focus and organization, while also exhibiting high levels of energy and impulsivity. This combination often leads to challenges in both academic and social settings.
Signs of Combined ADHD:
Difficulty focusing on tasks and excessive fidgeting or movement.
Interrupting others while also being forgetful or disorganized.
Struggling with time management and emotional regulation.
Who Is affected by ADHD?
ADHD is a common neurodevelopmental disorder that impacts 5–10% of children worldwide. It is often first identified between ages 3 and 7 when children start school and structured routines highlight challenges like hyperactivity, impulsivity, or difficulty focusing. Children are most commonly diagnosed around age 7 or 8. While ADHD frequently continues into adulthood, symptoms may shift over time, with hyperactivity often decreasing but challenges in attention and organization persisting.
Boys vs. Girls: Differences in Presentation
Boys are diagnosed with ADHD more often than girls, with boys frequently exhibiting hyperactive-impulsive symptoms that are more noticeable in group settings. Girls, on the other hand, are more likely to show inattentive symptoms, such as daydreaming or forgetfulness, which can lead to underdiagnosis or delayed recognition.
ADHD Across the Lifespan
Approximately 50–90% of children with ADHD experience symptoms into adulthood. In adults, ADHD often presents as difficulties with time management, organization, and emotional regulation. Despite these challenges, with appropriate treatment, individuals with ADHD can succeed in all areas of life.
At Thriving Minds, we specialize in early identification and tailored treatments to help children and families navigate ADHD effectively.
ADHD Treatment at Thriving Minds
At Thriving Minds, our 7–10 week ADHD program is specifically designed to empower children and their families with tools and strategies to navigate the unique challenges of ADHD. This short-term, solution-focused program provides a comprehensive approach to managing ADHD symptoms in everyday life, addressing both behavioral and emotional needs.
Key Features of the Program
Therapist-Led Sessions: Each session is guided by experienced clinicians who specialize in ADHD, ensuring evidence-based practices and personalized attention for every family.
Tailored for Families: The program includes separate modules for children and parents, focusing on skills that each can apply in their specific roles at home, school, and social settings.
Structured and Practical: Through clear, step-by-step guidance, families develop routines and strategies that can immediately reduce stress and improve functioning.
What to Expect
Parent Sessions:
Parents play a crucial role in managing ADHD. Our program begins with education on ADHD as a neurodevelopmental disorder, helping parents understand how it affects behavior and learning. Parents are taught behavior management strategies, school advocacy skills, and home-based approaches to create a supportive environment.
Child Sessions:
Some children will participate in engaging sessions that teach them how to recognize their strengths, regulate their emotions, and build essential executive functioning skills. Using cognitive-behavioral techniques, children learn practical tools for organization, time management, and positive self-talk.
How do I get started?
Step One: Call Thriving Minds intake manager at 734-433-5100 or fill out this online form to get the process started.
Step Two: Initial Consultation Session with one of our clinicians who will help determine treatment goals and the best treatment approach based on your child and family needs.
Step Three: Typically begin with parent-only appointments (in person or via telehealth). Depending on the age of the child and your family’s needs, the child may or may not be involved in later treatment sessions.
Where can I learn more about ADHD?
We’ve compiled a list of useful resources here for parents and professionals to learn more about ADHD.