What Is ADHD?
ADHD -- attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder -- is a condition that affects how your brain manages attention, impulses, and organization. It is not about willpower or effort. About 10% of children and 4-5% of adults have it. A lot of adults were never diagnosed as children and have spent years wondering why things that seem easy for other people feel so hard for them.
It shows up in different ways. Some people are restless and impulsive. Others are quiet, spacey, and constantly losing track of things. Many deal with both. ADHD affects school performance, job stability, relationships, and self-confidence in ways that compound over time if left untreated.
How We Treat ADHD
We begin with a thorough psychiatric evaluation to confirm the diagnosis. Anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, and thyroid problems can mimic ADHD -- and many people have ADHD alongside one of these conditions. Getting the diagnosis right is the first step.
Once we have a clear picture, we build a medication plan. Stimulant medications like Adderall, Vyvanse, Concerta, and Ritalin remain the most effective treatment for most people with ADHD. For patients who cannot take stimulants or prefer an alternative, we prescribe non-stimulant options like Strattera, Wellbutrin, Qelbree, and guanfacine.
We adjust carefully over time. Finding the right medication and dose is a process, and we stay engaged through regular follow-up visits to make sure your treatment is working in real life -- not just on paper.
What to Expect at Your First Visit
Plan for about 45-60 minutes. We will ask about your symptoms, your history, your daily life, and any previous treatments. Bring a photo ID, insurance card, and a list of medications you take. Previous records or school evaluations are helpful but not required.
Most patients leave with a diagnosis and a treatment plan. We do not believe in making you wait weeks to start getting help.
Insurance and Payment
We accept Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona, Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, and AHCCCS including Mercy Care. Cash pay is available for patients without insurance or those who prefer it.
When to Get Evaluated
If you constantly lose things, cannot stay on task, miss deadlines, forget appointments, or feel like you are working twice as hard as everyone else -- get evaluated. If your child is struggling in school, cannot focus, or is constantly in trouble for behavior they seem unable to control -- do not wait. The sooner you get a clear diagnosis, the sooner treatment can help.