[Skip to Content]

What Is Therapy for ADHD?

Therapy is part of the treatment for most kids and teens diagnosed with ADHD. Kids have meetings with a therapist to help with the problems that ADHD can cause.

In therapy, kids learn skills like listening and paying attention better.

Some kids with ADHD also get another type of therapy called occupational therapy. This helps when things like balance or handwriting are difficult because of ADHD or a learning disability.

Treatment for ADHD usually includes medicine. Medicines help kids pay attention, use self-control, and fidget less. Medicine works best when kids also have therapy.

Why Do Kids Need Therapy for ADHD?

Therapy helps kids with ADHD do better in school and at home. For example, they learn how to:

  • be better organized
  • focus on schoolwork
  • listen and pay attention better
  • get along better with others
  • have fewer behavior problems

Some kids need therapy to help ease difficult emotions caused by ADHD. For example, kids might lose confidence or feel like they're disappointing others. Some kids become depressed, anxious, angry, or frustrated.

When kids learn skills to manage ADHD, they do better. Therapy also helps kids feel happier and more confident.

How Does ADHD Therapy Work?

In ADHD therapy, kids learn by doing. A therapist will share activities and ideas that focus on building the skills a child or teen needs. Therapists can teach study skills, emotion skills, or attention skills, such as mindful breathing. They can teach social skills to help kids get along better with others. They can teach skills to cope with anxiety. Kids practice the skills they learn.