What Is ADHD?
ADHD stands for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. It is a condition that affects how your brain manages attention, impulses, and organization. It is not about being lazy or not trying hard enough. About 10% of children and 4-5% of adults in the US have ADHD, and many adults go undiagnosed for decades.
ADHD looks different in different people. Some are hyperactive and cannot sit still. Others are inattentive -- they daydream, lose track of time, and forget things. Many have both. It affects school, work, relationships, and daily life in ways that can be hard to explain to people who do not have it.
How We Treat ADHD
We start with a full psychiatric evaluation to confirm the diagnosis and make sure something else is not causing the symptoms. Anxiety, depression, thyroid problems, and sleep disorders can all mimic ADHD -- and some people have ADHD plus one of those conditions.
For treatment, we use medication management. Stimulant medications like Adderall, Vyvanse, Concerta, and Ritalin are the most effective option for most people. Non-stimulant alternatives include Strattera, Wellbutrin, Qelbree, and guanfacine. We start with a careful dosage and adjust based on how you respond -- because finding the right medication and dose takes some fine-tuning.
If you have tried medications before without success, we offer GeneSight testing to help identify which medications are more likely to work with your specific biology.
What to Expect at Your First Visit
Plan for about 45-60 minutes. We will ask about your symptoms, when they started, how they affect your daily life, and what treatments you have tried. Bring a photo ID, insurance card, and a list of current medications. School records or previous evaluations are helpful if you have them.
Most patients leave their first visit with a clear diagnosis and treatment plan.
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.
When to Get Evaluated
If you lose things constantly, cannot finish tasks, feel overwhelmed by basic organization, or have been told your whole life that you are not living up to your potential -- it is worth getting checked. For children, look for trouble in school, constant forgetfulness, impulsive behavior, or difficulty following multi-step instructions. Do not wait. Treatment helps.