HELPING KIDS & ADULTS WITH ADHD THRIVE

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects both children and adults. While it is most commonly diagnosed during childhood, ADHD can continue into adolescence and adulthood, often presenting different challenges as individuals grow. At Lighthouse Counseling Services, we understand that living with ADHD can be overwhelming—not just for the individual, but for the entire family. Our goal is to support and guide each client through understanding their unique experience, while providing effective tools and strategies to manage symptoms and build meaningful, balanced lives.

ADHD is more than just occasional forgetfulness or bursts of energy—it’s a complex disorder that impacts attention, impulse control, and executive functioning (like organization and decision-making). The exact cause of ADHD is not known, but research points to a combination of genetics, brain structure, and environmental factors. It is not caused by bad parenting, lack of discipline, or poor character.

Without proper understanding and support, ADHD can negatively impact academic or job performance, relationships, and self-worth. Individuals with ADHD often experience feelings of frustration or shame, especially when their behaviors are misunderstood by others. At Lighthouse Counseling Services, we work to break down those misunderstandings by offering a compassionate and informed approach to care.

Recognizing the signs of ADHD is the first step toward getting help. Symptoms can look different depending on age, personality, and even gender, but there are some core behaviors that often emerge.

• Difficulty sustaining attention. Kids may seem to daydream often or become easily distracted during school or conversations.
   
• Physical restlessness. Children may struggle to sit still, fidget frequently, or appear to be constantly in motion.
   
• Impulsive behavior. This might include interrupting others, blurting out answers, or difficulty waiting their turn.
   
• Emotional reactivity. Children with ADHD may have trouble regulating their emotions, leading to outbursts or frustration over small challenges.
   
• Difficulty completing tasks. Starting homework but not finishing it, or moving from one activity to another without closure, is common.
   

• Impulsivity. This might show up as interrupting others, making hasty decisions, or struggling with patience in conversations or tasks.
   
• Disorganization. Adults may have chronic difficulty managing time, keeping track of responsibilities, or staying on top of daily tasks.
   
• Frequent mood swings. Emotional highs and lows, often triggered by external stressors or internal frustration, can disrupt relationships and work performance.
   
• Sensitivity to criticism. Adults with ADHD may have internalized years of negative feedback, resulting in self-doubt and heightened self-criticism.
   
• Stress intolerance. Even minor stressors can feel overwhelming, leading to burnout or avoidance.
   

ADHD doesn’t only show up in school or the workplace—it influences how people experience the world around them. Children may struggle to make or keep friends due to impulsivity or emotional outbursts. Teens and adults may find it hard to maintain routines, manage finances, or meet long-term goals. Without intervention, these ongoing struggles can lead to anxiety, depression, substance use, or damaged self-esteem.

But with the right support, people with ADHD can thrive. ADHD is not a lack of ability—it’s a different way of thinking, learning, and responding. When understood and managed well, many individuals with ADHD harness their creativity, energy, and out-of-the-box thinking to live vibrant and successful lives.

At Lighthouse Counseling Services, we use evidence-based treatment modalities tailored to each individual’s needs. Two commonly used and effective approaches are:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps individuals identify unhelpful thoughts and behaviors and replace them with healthier patterns. For clients with ADHD, this can mean learning time-management techniques, developing routines, and improving self-talk.
   
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): DBT focuses on building skills around emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and mindfulness. These skills are especially helpful for individuals with ADHD who may struggle with impulsivity or intense emotional reactions.
   

We also recognize the importance of involving families when treating children and teens. Parent coaching, family therapy, and collaborative care with schools are just some of the ways we create a network of support around each child.

At Lighthouse Counseling Services, our mission is to create a nurturing environment where both clients and staff can thrive. We recognize that ADHD doesn’t affect just one area of life—it touches everything from school and work to home and relationships. That’s why we are committed to walking alongside you, offering guidance, education, and tools that empower lasting change.

We believe that with support, individuals with ADHD can achieve more than they thought possible. We’re here to help shine the light forward—one step at a time.

See below for a therapist who can help ⬇️

Charlotte Marshall

Mica Denman

Sia Suliafu

Andrea Jones