ADHD is considered a neurodivergent condition. This means that it is a neurological difference that affects how a person thinks, learns, and behaves. Consider neurodivergence as a spectrum with different levels of severity. ADHD falls somewhere on this spectrum. Some people with ADHD have mild symptoms, while others have more severe symptoms that significantly impact their daily life. However, all levels of severity are valid and should be respected.
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is characterized by a pattern of inattention, impulsivity, and/or hyperactivity. While many with ADHD develop strategies to manage on their own, professional therapeutic support can offer targeted strategies and insights that enhance daily functioning and well-being. For a neurodivergent individual with ADHD, seeing a therapist can provide several benefits:
Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) is based on the idea that our emotions are regulated by our thoughts, and that we can change the way we feel by changing the way we think. For example, if you’re feeling anxious, you might have the thought “I’m not good enough.” changing this thought to “I can handle this” would likely reduce your anxiety. DBT aims to help people change their thoughts and behaviours in order to improve their emotional regulation.
Common mental skills training techniques in sports psychology include visualization, goal setting, self-talk, mindfulness, and relaxation techniques. Visualization involves mentally rehearsing a performance. Goal setting focuses on establishing clear, achievable objectives. Positive self-talk helps in managing negative thoughts and boosting confidence. Mindfulness training aids in maintaining focus and composure. Relaxation techniques, like deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation, help in managing stress and anxiety. These techniques are tailored to the individual needs of athletes to enhance their mental preparedness and overall performance.
The initial stage of counseling, often considered the most crucial, sets the tone for the entire therapeutic journey. During this stage, the counselor focuses on building rapport and establishing a trusting relationship with the client. This foundational trust is vital because it makes the client feel safe and comfortable, which is essential for effective therapy. Clients are more likely to open up and share their thoughts and feelings in a space where they feel understood and accepted. This stage also involves setting clear expectations and goals for therapy, providing both the counselor and client with a roadmap for the sessions ahead. Establishing this connection and framework early on paves the way for more in-depth and meaningful work in the subsequent stages of counseling.
Counselling is for people who want to make changes in their lives but need some help to do so. Counselling can help you learn about yourself, set goals, and figure out how to make the changes you want. It can also provide support and guidance during difficult times. If you’re considering counselling as an option for treatment, be sure to find a therapist who is registered with the College of Alberta Psychologists and has a valid licence to practise. With the right therapist, counselling can be a valuable tool for making positive changes in your life.
There is some evidence that diet can help reduce symptoms of ADHD. For example, a diet that is high in protein and low in sugar has been shown to be helpful for some people with ADHD. Additionally, omega-3 supplements have also been shown to be helpful in reducing symptoms of ADHD. However, it is important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as different people with ADHD will respond to different treatments.
Therapy with a professional counseling psychologist can help with ADHD, but it depends on the individual. Some people may find that therapy helps them better understand their condition and how to manage it, while others may find that therapy helps them cope with any associated stress or anxiety. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide whether or not therapy is helpful for them. If you are struggling with ADHD, it is important to seek professional help so that you can receive the treatment and support that you need.
Recovery from a traumatic brain injury (TBI) largely depends on the severity of the injury, the person’s overall health, and the quality of treatment received. While full or near-full recovery is expected in mild cases, such as concussions, severe TBIs can result in lasting physical, cognitive, and emotional changes. The recovery process includes initial medical stabilization followed by rehabilitation to regain as much function as possible. Despite potential long-term disabilities in severe cases, improvements can continue over years, albeit at a slower pace. Ongoing research into neuroplasticity and neurorehabilitation is expanding potential recovery possibilities. Always consult with a healthcare professional for the most current TBI recovery information.
It is important to come prepared to your first counselling session. When you start therapy, you should consider asking these three questions: “What is your approach or methodology in therapy, and how might it help with my specific challenges?”
“What are your expectations from me as a client, and how can I make the most out of our sessions?”
“How will we measure progress, and what does success look like in our therapeutic journey?”
Honesty is key. It’s okay to say exactly how you feel, whether that’s “good,” “not so great,” “confused,” or even “I’m not sure.” Your therapist is there to help you navigate and understand your feelings, so being genuine about them is crucial for the process.
If you think you have ADHD, the first step is to contact a qualified mental health professional for an assessment. In Alberta, there are a number of resources available to help with this process. For example, the Alberta Health Services website has a list of clinics that provide ADHD assessments. Additionally, many private psychologists and psychiatrists also offer ADHD assessments. Human Integrated Performance is a private psychology clinic offering ADHD assessments in Edmonton.
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