What Is ADHD?
ADHD is not a focus problem. It is a brain wiring difference that affects how you plan, prioritize, remember things, and regulate your emotions. About 10% of children and 4-5% of adults in the US have it. Many adults were never diagnosed as kids -- they just learned to compensate until life got complicated enough that the coping strategies stopped working.
ADHD shows up differently in different people. Some people are hyperactive and impulsive. Others are quiet and disorganized. Some are both. It affects work performance, relationships, finances, and self-esteem. It is not laziness and it is not a character flaw.
How We Treat ADHD
We start with a thorough psychiatric evaluation. We look at your symptoms, your history, and your daily life to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions that can look like ADHD -- anxiety, sleep disorders, thyroid problems, depression.
Once we have a clear diagnosis, we build a medication plan. Stimulant medications like Adderall, Vyvanse, Concerta, and Ritalin are the most effective treatment for most people with ADHD. For patients who cannot take stimulants or prefer not to, non-stimulant options include Strattera, Wellbutrin, Qelbree, and guanfacine.
We monitor closely during the first few months -- adjusting dosage, checking for side effects, and making sure the medication is actually improving your daily function. This is not a one-size-fits-all process.
What to Expect at Your First Visit
Your first appointment is a full evaluation. Plan for about 45-60 minutes. We will ask about your symptoms, when they started, how they affect your work and relationships, and what you have tried before. If you have school records, previous evaluations, or notes from other providers, bring them -- but they are not required.
Many patients leave their first visit with a treatment plan in hand. We move quickly because we know you have been dealing with this long enough.
Insurance and Payment
We accept Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona, Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, and AHCCCS including Mercy Care. Cash pay is available. Our team verifies your benefits before your first visit.
When to Get Evaluated
If you are constantly losing things, missing deadlines, starting projects you never finish, or feeling like you are working twice as hard as everyone else for half the results -- it is worth getting evaluated. If your child is struggling in school, acting out, or cannot seem to sit still -- do not wait. Early diagnosis and treatment make a real difference.