How We Treat ADHD
The Shift Program, grounded in the principles of Reconditioning via Exposure & Integration (REI), also presents a novel approach to treating Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
ADHD is characterized by symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, which can lead to issues with executive functioning, affecting a person’s ability to plan, focus, and complete tasks. Often, individuals with ADHD may develop Limiting Beliefs about their abilities and potential due to their struggle with these symptoms. Such beliefs might include, “I’m incapable of focusing,” “I’m always going to be disorganized,” or “I can’t control my impulses.”
The Shift Program seeks to target these Limiting Beliefs, providing individuals with ADHD a framework to restructure their thought patterns. The exposure component allows individuals to confront their beliefs in a safe environment, heightening their awareness of the thoughts and behaviors that perpetuate these beliefs.
The integration part of the Shift Program is where individuals, with the help of their therapists, challenge these beliefs and replace them with healthier, more constructive ones. They’re guided to recognize their strengths and abilities, instead of focusing solely on their ADHD symptoms. For instance, they may learn to view their hyperactivity as energy and creativity, or their impulsivity as spontaneity and originality. This cognitive shift could lead to improved self-esteem and better coping mechanisms.
Moreover, the Shift Program can be a complementary approach to existing ADHD treatments, which often include medication, behavioural therapy, and self-care strategies. It provides an additional layer of support by addressing the negative self-perceptions and cognitive distortions that often accompany ADHD.
In essence, the Shift Program provides a new perspective on ADHD, emphasizing empowerment and self-acceptance. By challenging the Limiting Beliefs associated with the disorder, individuals can discover new strategies to manage their symptoms and achieve their potential, making it an effective approach in the comprehensive treatment of ADHD.
ADHD Psychologist
As with all disorders and psychological concerns, Shift’s approach is to get to the root of the presenting concern, including the limiting beliefs outlined above. The ultimate goal of treatment for ADHD at Shift is to remove these limiting beliefs and dysfunctional needs that inhibit a sense of hope and self-efficacy. This is done through the Shift Program which systematically reduces and/or eliminates Limiting Beliefs using Reconditioning via Exposure & Integration (REI) (more commonly referred to as Reconditioning). Additional therapeutic interventions that our ADHD psychologists will use may include:
- Conducting what is known as a Life Analysis, to determine an individual’s needs and make sure they’re making enough time for those needs
- Time management and scheduling techniques
- Energy Matching, which is determining when an individual’s high and low energy points occur, and scheduling tasks during these times
- With these therapeutic interventions, we can open the way to recognizing strengths and weaknesses with a level of acceptance and self-compassion for individuals with Attention-Deficit Disorder.
ADHD Resources
Starting in childhood, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a neurological condition that may resolve in time – or continue into adulthood.…
In order to help answer the question, “How do I know if I have ADHD or anxiety?” we’ll explain how to differentiate the two. Then we’ll go into a brief discussion about how to deal with – a…
In order to help answer the question, “How do I know if I have ADHD or anxiety?” we’ll explain how to differentiate the two. Then we’ll go into a brief discussion about how to deal with – a…
ADHD or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a common neuro-developmental disorder that is often diagnosed during childhood and lasts into […]…
Adult symptoms of ADHD are more ambiguous than those associated with kids that never sit still. Although less hyperactive than children, adults with ADHD usually have the core symptoms that are the si…
There are also symptoms in children that appear to run completely counter to the typical, hyperactive expectations of the condition: hyper-focus on certain activities, deep daydreaming, and exceptiona…
Paying attention to some of the most common symptoms and behaviours can help individuals gain a better understanding of their condition and seek timely medical help.…
In order to help answer the question, “How do I know if I have ADHD or anxiety?” we’ll explain how to differentiate the two. Then we’ll go into a brief discussion about how to deal with – an…
Because ADD/ADHD is classified as a neurodevelopment disorder, at least several of the symptoms need to have been present prior to age 12. …
It’s hard enough living with ADHD in adults, and relationships just add another layer of complication. But it’s also an opportunity to get support, build trust, and take your relationships to the …
ADHD is a type of neurodivergence, which means that ADHD brains are different than typical brains. Now can you go and “re-jig” them so that they look and function exactly like the typical brain? No. Y…