Behavior Therapy for ADHD: An Overview
ADHD medications can help a child with ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) in everyday life. He or she may be better able to control some of the behavior problems that have led to trouble with parents and siblings. However, it takes time to undo the frustration, blame, and anger that may have gone on for so long. Both the parents and the child may need special help to develop techniques for managing the patterns of behavior. In such cases, mental health professionals can counsel the child and the family, helping them to develop new skills, attitudes, and ways of relating to each other.
In individual counseling, the therapist helps children with ADHD learn to feel better about themselves. The therapist can also help them to identify and build on their strengths, cope with daily problems, and control their attention and aggression. Sometimes only the child with ADHD needs counseling support. But in many cases -- because the problem affects the family as a whole -- the entire family may need help. The therapist can assist the family in finding better ways to handle the disruptive behaviors and promote change. If the child is young, most of the therapist's work is with the parents, teaching them techniques for coping with and improving their child's behavior.
Several treatment approaches are available. Knowing something about the various types of behavior therapy for ADHD makes it easier for families to choose a therapist that is right for their needs.
