Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder can make even daily school or office tasks difficult to complete, and can create stress for both parents and children in an already-busy home. Considering wide speculation concerning over-diagnosis of ADHD and over-prescription of drugs, however, many people are hoping to find ADHD alternative treatments that can improve focus and organization without potential side effects. One such alternative is cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT.

What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?

Created about 40 years ago, CBT is based on examining thought processes and actions, as opposed to the root causes of emotions (a major part of most psychotherapy). CBT professionals help their clients determine how their thoughts and thought processes are preventing them from reaching their goals. These goals might be as wide-ranging as overcoming depression, quitting smoking, managing anger or even staying better organized. CBT takes a problem-based approach, setting concrete benchmarks, and works to develop specific actions a client can implement. This contrasts with the more open-ended goals of most therapeutic processes.

Who Uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?

As the name suggests, there are many therapists who specialize in CBT. But therapists aren’t the only professionals who use CBT methods, and for some clients, a life management coach may be a better fit. Cognitive behavioral coaching, an offshoot of CBT, starts with psychological models but focuses more thoroughly on behavioral coaching and the coach-client relationship.

How Does Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for ADHD Treatment Work?

People with ADD and ADHD often receive counseling for ADHD, either from a therapist or life coach. CBT works to increase life management skills and reverse negative patterns that often cause people with ADHD to sabotage their own progress. CBT can have positive effects very quickly compared to psychotherapy, which can encourage patients even further: Typically, CBT shows results in 12 to 15 one-hour sessions.

Have you considered cognitive behavioral therapy for ADHD treatment? What thoughts do you have to add? Share in the comments.