What to Talk About in Therapy: 16 Ideas

Posted on September 9, 2023September 7, 2023 by chanel@sfstress.com

Consider the following scenario. You have just scheduled your first appointment with a therapist. In a consultation, you discussed what you’re interested in treating. You feel good and proud of yourself for taking this big step. However, there is one problem: you feel unprepared! What can you expect? What will you talk about?

Understandably, you may feel nervous if this is your first time going to therapy. Being vulnerable with someone you just met can seem intimidating and challenging. But don’t worry! This blog will cover 16 helpful ideas you can use to prepare for your next session.

What Can You Talk About in Therapy?

You can talk about anything in therapy! Thinking of the past, present, and future can be helpful. You could journal these thoughts in advance. But if you’re not sure, the therapist will help you with the answers to these questions.

What brought you here?
What are your goals for therapy?
How will you know when you have met your goals?

Some of those goals could be increased self-compassion, the ability to manage anxiety, or to connect more effectively with other people. Whether you are just starting therapy or you are in the middle, here are 16 topics you can discuss.

1. Explore Traumatic Events

Talking about traumatic experiences, whether recent or from your past, can be challenging. Your therapist can help you understand how past trauma has affected you and move towards healing by discussing it in a safe and supportive environment.

Your therapist can also provide tools and strategies to help you cope with the pain so you don’t feel consumed by it. By exploring these traumatic events, you can gain insight into why certain thought patterns or behaviors occur and learn how to respond better in the future.

2. Unhealthy Behavior Patterns

It is important to recognize unhealthy patterns of behavior such as substance abuse, self-harm, OCD, or codependency so that we can address them. In therapy, we can explore these patterns to gain insight into why we engage in them and devise a treatment plan to deal with our issues in a more healthy manner.

3. Setting Goals and How to Work Toward Them

A good place to set goals for yourself and make positive changes in your life is in therapy. Talking about your goals and how you plan to achieve them can help you stay accountable and provide support every step of the way.

You can stay motivated on your journey to self-improvement by discussing the progress you’ve made, obstacles you’ve encountered, and adjustments you’ve made.

4. How to Express Emotions in a Safe Space

Being able to express your emotions can be challenging, especially if you haven’t been taught. Therapy can help you identify and recognize your feelings, as well as provide a safe place to do so without judgment or criticism. By understanding why certain events evoke certain emotional responses, your therapist will be able to provide you with the tools necessary to manage them effectively.

5. Identify and Manage Your Triggers

There are a wide variety of triggers that cause intense emotions or behaviors, such as panic attacks. Talking about these in therapy can help us gain insight into why they occur and how to deal with them. You might learn relaxation techniques, tools for grounding yourself, or ways to deal with difficult people.

6. Develop Self-Care Strategies

In order to maintain good mental health, self-care is essential, but it’s not always easy to do. When we discuss self-care strategies in therapy, we can develop a personalized plan for how to take care of ourselves. Establishing systems of support, setting boundaries, or finding activities that help you relax and recharge may be part of this process.

7. Process Grief and Losses

There is no doubt that grief and loss can be stressful topics to discuss and that people may experience PTSD as a result, but talking about them is also a valuable part of the healing process.

During this difficult time, discussing these feelings with your therapist can provide much-needed compassion and understanding. Furthermore, it may enable you to see how things might have been different if the loss had not occurred, and it may help you move forward in a more healthy way.

8. Professional Support & Guidance

No matter what topic you choose to discuss, a therapist provides guidance and insight so that you can better understand yourself and learn strategies for managing difficult emotions and situations in a positive manner.

9. Create a Support System

Talking to a therapist can help build a therapeutic relationship. It helps you identify resources and people in your life who will be able to provide support when needed for both you and your family members or friends.

10. Establishing Healthy Boundaries

Therapists can help you recognize what boundaries are healthy for you and how to set them so that you don’t overcommit yourself or allow others to take advantage of your generosity.

11. Understanding Relationships & Communication Styles

Therapy can also be used to explore relationships with others and communication styles that are most effective for each individual. By doing so, we can identify patterns of behavior that may be causing friction in our relationships and learn how to communicate more effectively.

12. Learn Ways to Combat Stress & Anxiety

If stress and anxiety are not managed properly, they can have a negative impact on our mental health. By talking about ways to cope with stress and anxiety, we can create an action plan for reducing their effects. This could include learning relaxation techniques, going on regular walks, or having positive outlets for expressing emotions.

13. Address Childhood Trauma

Often, childhood trauma is buried deep inside of us, but it can affect our day-to-day lives. Healing from the past and moving forward in a healthier way requires talking about it. By talking about traumatic experiences with a therapist, you can gain insight into how they may affect your current life.

14. How to Recognize Signs of Burnout & Stress

In addition to providing support and guidance, a therapist may be able to suggest strategies for managing burnout or stress in a healthy way. This may involve getting more sleep, exercising regularly, or creating a plan for managing tasks and obligations.

15. Resolving Conflicts & Managing Anger

Therapy sessions can also help you resolve conflicts in your relationships and manage anger more constructively. It may mean identifying triggers, setting more effective boundaries, forming coping strategies, and understanding the best communication styles for each individual.

16. Dangerous, Frightening, or “Taboo” Thoughts

We all experience thoughts that can make us feel ashamed, embarrassed, or scared. Through therapy, we can understand why these thoughts arise and work on managing them more effectively by discussing them in a safe, supportive environment. As a result, we can ultimately reduce their impact on our well-being. Furthermore, we can learn how to challenge negative thinking patterns that contribute to these thoughts.

Final Thoughts

These are just some of the topics that can be discussed in therapy. Remember not to put too much pressure on yourself when going to therapy, there is no right or wrong thing to discuss in therapy. Your therapist is there to support you no matter what topic you choose. Through their guidance and insight, you will gain a deeper understanding of yourself, as well as learn how to deal with difficult emotions or situations.

If you feel like the support of a therapist could help, contactour Care-Coordinator, and we will answer your questions so you can start prioritizing your mental well-being today!

10 Signs You Are Suffering From Burnout

Posted on September 7, 2023September 7, 2023 by chanel@sfstress.com

Recognizing the Warning Signs of Stress Burnout

In today’s fast-paced world, stress has become an all-too-familiar companion in our lives. When stress becomes chronic and overwhelming, it can lead to burnout—a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion. Recognizing the signs of stress burnout is crucial for maintaining our well-being and preventing its detrimental consequences. In this blog, we will explore the key indicators of stress burnout and offer insights into how we can regain balance and vitality.

1. Physical Exhaustion

One of the primary signs of stress burnout is a profound sense of physical exhaustion that persists even after adequate rest. The body’s constant exposure to stress hormones can disrupt sleep patterns, leaving individuals feeling fatigued and drained throughout the day. Frequent headaches, muscle tension, and unexplained aches may also manifest as physical manifestations of burnout.

2. Emotional Detachment

Chronic stress can lead to emotional detachment, characterized by a feeling of emotional numbness or a lack of enthusiasm for activities once enjoyed. Individuals experiencing burnout may find it challenging to connect with others on an emotional level, leading to a sense of isolation and loneliness.

3. Decreased Productivity and Motivation

Stress burnout can take a toll on our cognitive abilities, impairing our focus, memory, and decision-making skills. As a result, productivity at work or in daily tasks may decline, and individuals may find it challenging to maintain their previous levels of motivation.

4. Persistent Negativity and Cynicism

Prolonged exposure to stress can foster a negative outlook on life and the world around us. Those experiencing burnout may become increasingly cynical, finding it hard to see the positive aspects of situations or people. This negative mindset can further perpetuate the cycle of stress and burnout.

5. Withdrawal from Social Interactions

A common sign of stress burnout is withdrawing from social interactions and avoiding gatherings or activities that were once enjoyable. Social isolation can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and exacerbate emotional exhaustion.

6. Changes in Appetite and Sleep Patterns

Stress burnout often disrupts our typical routines, leading to changes in appetite and sleep patterns. Some individuals may experience an increase in emotional eating, leading to weight fluctuations, while others may encounter sleep disturbances like insomnia or oversleeping.

7. Reduced Sense of Accomplishment

As burnout progresses, individuals may start feeling ineffective and experience a reduced sense of accomplishment. Even small tasks may seem insurmountable, contributing to a cycle of self-doubt and further stress.

8. Increased Irritability and Impatience

Stress burnout can manifest as heightened irritability and impatience, causing individuals to become more easily frustrated with themselves and others. These emotional outbursts can strain relationships and exacerbate the feelings of detachment.

9. Neglecting Self-Care

When overwhelmed by stress, self-care activities like exercise, hobbies, or spending time with loved ones may take a back seat. Neglecting self-care further depletes emotional reserves and hampers the ability to cope with stress effectively.

10. Weakened Immune System

Prolonged stress can suppress the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to frequent illnesses and infections. Frequent colds or infections may be indicative of chronic stress taking a toll on the body’s defense mechanisms.

Takeaway

Stress burnout is a pervasive issue that affects countless individuals worldwide, but it is essential to recognize the warning signs before it takes a severe toll on our well-being. Identifying the signs of stress burnout empowers us to take proactive measures to replenish our physical, emotional, and mental health. Engaging in self-care practices, seeking support from loved ones or professionals, and setting realistic boundaries are crucial steps in breaking the cycle of stress burnout and restoring balance to our lives. If you are experiencing any of the signs mentioned above contact us today to speak with our Care-Coordinator, who can match you with one of our expert clinicians. Remember, prioritizing our well-being is not a luxury but a necessity for leading a fulfilling and sustainable life.

Unveiling the Message: What Your Anger is Trying to Tell You

Posted on September 7, 2023 by chanel@sfstress.com

Anger, often perceived as a negative emotion, is a natural response that humans experience from time to time. While it’s easy to label anger as “bad,” it’s essential to recognize that emotions, including anger, serve as signals from our inner selves. Rather than suppressing or dismissing anger, understanding what it’s trying to communicate can lead to personal growth, improved relationships, and emotional well-being. In this blog, we’ll delve into the underlying messages that anger holds and how to harness its power for positive transformation.

1. An Alarm for Boundaries

Anger frequently arises when our personal boundaries are crossed. These boundaries encompass our values, beliefs, and limits we establish to ensure our emotional and physical well-being. When anger surfaces, it could indicate that someone has violated those boundaries. Exploring the source of your anger can help you identify which boundaries have been breached, allowing you to communicate assertively and reinforce those boundaries.

2. Unmet Needs and Desires

Anger can be a signal that your needs and desires are not being fulfilled. It’s a call to pay attention to your inner desires and reflect on what’s missing from your life. Whether it’s a need for respect, validation, or autonomy, acknowledging these feelings can guide you toward making positive changes that align with your aspirations.

3. Injustice and Fairness

Anger often arises in response to perceived injustices or unfair treatment. This emotion can indicate a deep sense of empathy and a desire for a more just world. By exploring the source of your anger, you might uncover a passion for advocating for equality and making a difference in the lives of others.

4. Suppressed Emotions

Unresolved emotions, such as sadness, frustration, or fear, can manifest as anger. If you’ve been avoiding or burying these feelings, anger might be the way your mind is expressing them. Acknowledging and addressing the underlying emotions can lead to a healthier emotional state and a better understanding of yourself.

5. A Call for Self-Care

Prolonged stress or neglecting self-care can lead to heightened irritability and anger. Your anger might be telling you that it’s time to take a step back, evaluate your stressors, and prioritize self-care activities that rejuvenate your mind and body.

6. Communication Breakdown

Anger often arises when communication breaks down. Whether it’s miscommunication, unexpressed feelings, or misunderstandings, your anger might be urging you to address these issues. Learning effective communication skills and expressing your thoughts and emotions can lead to healthier relationships and a more peaceful existence.

7. Fear of Vulnerability

Anger can serve as a defense mechanism, shielding you from feeling vulnerable. It’s often easier to display anger than to admit feelings of hurt or insecurity. Recognizing when your anger is masking deeper emotions can help you embrace vulnerability and foster more authentic connections with others.

8. Past Trauma and Triggers

Past traumatic experiences can lead to heightened anger in certain situations. Your anger might be triggered by events that remind you of those past traumas. Recognizing these triggers and seeking support to address unresolved trauma can lead to emotional healing and a reduction in reactive anger.

Final Thoughts

Anger is a multifaceted emotion that carries invaluable messages if we’re willing to listen. Instead of suppressing or acting on it impulsively, take the time to reflect on what your anger is trying to communicate. By deciphering the underlying messages, you can gain insights into your boundaries, unmet needs, passions, and unresolved emotions. This self-awareness empowers you to respond to anger in constructive ways, fostering personal growth, improved relationships, and enhanced emotional well-being.

If you need help managing anger or figuring out what is causing it, the San Francisco Stress and Anxiety Center can help. Remember, your anger is not your enemy; it’s a messenger guiding you toward a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you. Contact our Care-Coordinator today to get started.

10 Effective Coping Mechanisms for Overwhelming Emotions

Posted on August 16, 2023 by chanel@sfstress.com

Life is filled with a spectrum of emotions, ranging from joy and excitement to sorrow and anxiety. While positive emotions are a natural part of being human, we must also acknowledge the presence of overwhelming emotions that can leave us feeling vulnerable and struggling to cope. In times of distress, it is essential to have a toolkit of effective coping mechanisms to navigate these turbulent emotional waters.

1. Mindfulness and Meditation

Mindfulness and meditation practices are powerful tools for grounding ourselves during moments of emotional overwhelm. By focusing on the present moment and observing our thoughts and feelings without judgment, we can gain clarity and reduce anxiety. Regular meditation cultivates a sense of inner peace, allowing us to respond to emotions with a more centered and composed outlook.

2. Deep Breathing Techniques

Simple yet highly effective, deep breathing exercises can work wonders in calming an anxious mind. By taking slow, deep breaths, we activate the body’s relaxation response, which counteracts the physical manifestations of stress and anxiety. Incorporating deep breathing into your daily routine can help you manage overwhelming emotions with greater ease.

3. Emotional Expression Through Journaling

Writing down our emotions in a journal can be a cathartic experience. Journaling provides a safe space to express pent-up feelings and explore the root causes of our emotional turmoil. By identifying triggers and patterns, we gain a better understanding of ourselves, leading to personal growth and improved emotional resilience.

4. Seek Support from Friends and Family

Never underestimate the power of a support system. Reach out to trusted friends or family members when emotions become too overwhelming to handle alone. Talking openly about your feelings can be a therapeutic experience and often leads to valuable insights and advice from those who care about you.

5. Engage in Physical Activity

Physical activity has a profound impact on our emotional well-being. Exercise releases endorphins, the body’s natural mood enhancers, reducing stress and promoting a sense of well-being. Whether it’s a brisk walk in nature, yoga, or a heart-pumping workout, regular physical activity can be a fantastic outlet for overwhelming emotions.

6. Creative Expression

Engaging in creative activities, such as painting, writing, dancing, or playing music, can be a therapeutic way to process and release intense emotions. Creative expression allows us to channel our feelings into something tangible, promoting healing and personal growth.

7. Establish Healthy Boundaries

Setting clear and healthy boundaries is essential in managing overwhelming emotions. Learning to say “no” when necessary and avoiding unnecessary stressors can prevent emotional overload and protect your mental well-being.

8. Practice Self-Compassion

Be gentle with yourself during challenging times. Practicing self-compassion means acknowledging that it is okay to experience overwhelming emotions and that everyone faces difficulties at some point. Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would offer to a friend in need.

9. Mindful Distractions

While it is essential to address overwhelming emotions, sometimes a temporary distraction can provide relief. Engage in activities that capture your attention and provide a sense of enjoyment, like reading a book, watching a movie, or spending time with a beloved pet.

10. Professional Therapy and Counseling

For some, seeking professional help through therapy or counseling is a crucial step in dealing with overwhelming emotions. Trained therapists at San Francisco Stress and Anxiety Center can provide guidance, tools, and techniques to address deep-rooted emotional issues and help you develop healthy coping strategies for the long term.

To Sum It Up

Navigating overwhelming emotions is an integral part of the human experience. By embracing these coping mechanisms and incorporating them into your daily life, you can effectively manage your emotional landscape and find balance even in the most challenging times. Remember, seeking support and employing these strategies is a sign of strength, not weakness. Embrace your emotions, lean on your coping mechanisms, and embark on a journey of personal growth and resilience.

Need help managing some overwhelming emotions? Get started by contacting our Care-Coordinator here.

Get To Know Dr. Nicole Coffelt

Posted on August 1, 2023August 4, 2023 by chanel@sfstress.com

SF Stress therapist Doug Newton, LMFT, sat down with Dr. Nicole (Nikki) Coffelt to chat about how she got started working as a psychologist, how she works with her clients, and more.

How did you become interested in psychology in the first place?

From a young age, I’ve been fascinated by human behavior. I used to read author biographies before diving into fiction and nonfiction alike – as I felt their stories contextualized and enriched the stories they had written!

You seem to understand a lot about shame. How do you support your clients to help them deal with shame?

I have extensive training in somatic experiencing, which deals with shame (especially developmental shame) on a deep, cellular level. We view this as an embodied experience – and one that is generally resistant to mere cognitive “reprogramming” or “restructuring” Although the latter certainly does initially help to counter and challenge the shame-based conditioning we are all immersed in here in America, day in and day out . I also like to focus on solutions with my clients, such as developing a nurturing and generative inner voice that will eventually become “louder” than the introjects that get in the way of a person stepping into their fullest potential.

How does a focus on the body help people work through difficult experiences and come into a more accepting sense of self?

As Babette Rothschild once said, “The body remembers.” We all store accumulated, pleasant and traumatic memories that can keep people stuck in overwhelming experiences from the past that will guide our present-day journey . Incorporating the body in a safe, therapeutic container assists people in metabolizing past experiences so they can finally move forward with their lives . Greater congruence between the mind and body, tapping more of their potential and encouraging overall nervous system health are just a few potential outcomes.

How do you think your personal experiences translate into helping your clients?

I truly walk my talk . I have been on a personal journey of recovery and healing for nearly two decades . I understand intimately what it feels like to be broken, in total despair and also to reclaim the most essential parts of oneself in order to truly self actualize. It is possible. And so very rewarding .

Tell me about how you support the LGBTQ population?

As a member of the LGBTQ community myself – these clients feel like home to me. Marginalized populations often have unique experiences that people from more privileged, mainstream backgrounds simply don’t understand. I work skillfully with those looking for a refuge in which to claim their brilliance, beauty and sovereignty – in a world continuously trying to erode and erase these aspects of the queer community .

What have you found useful around building trust with clients who experience shame, self-blame and trouble with self-judgment?

I have a warm and empathic style, and remain pretty neutral when working with clients’ self criticism . I bring in and teach the Jungian concept of shadow work and assist the client in transforming the deeper layers of their shame.

How do you weave the arts into your work with clients?

I don’t directly do “art therapy” with people but my relational style is very curious, spontaneous and organic/spacious. This comes directly from many years of the inner / outer work required of professional artists.

Interested in working with Nicole? Schedule your appointment here.

Managing ADHD Symptoms with Therapy

Posted on July 5, 2023 by chanel@sfstress.com

Treatment for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) includes medication and therapy for those aged six and older. There are many different forms of therapy, and one of the most common you might come across is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). It is often considered one of the most effective forms of therapy. This blog will explain how CBT works and how it can help with ADHD.

What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)?

Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, is a widely used psychotherapy and talk therapy intervention. CBT aims to help individuals change their thinking patterns to make them healthier and more beneficial for them. Various types of CBT exist and can be modified to help people with various life impairments and disorders.

There are many conditions in which CBT can be used, including anxiety disorders, depression, insomnia, eating disorders, relationships, stress, self-esteem, and, yes, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. There are many ways to conduct CBT, including in groups, individually, or in other settings.

How CBT Helps with ADHD

It’s important to note that CBT does not address the “core symptoms” such as hyperactivity, inattention, or impulsivity of adult ADHD. However, it has other benefits that can assist individuals in their daily lives, such as:

Emotional regulation skills
Improving follow-through of tasks, decreasing procrastination.
Symptom management
Time management
Self-esteem and confidence.
If applicable, help with comorbid conditions.

Techniques

Cognitive behavioral therapy uses various techniques in order to address the challenges associated with ADHD. During an ADHD treatment session, a therapist might use the following techniques with you or your child:

Goal-setting and planning

Goal-setting and planning are often part of various forms of therapy, including CBT. Therapists who specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy can help you complete tasks by teaching you to break them down into smaller, more manageable pieces or by using other techniques to make them easier to complete.

Different things work for different people; external tools like timers, schedules, routines, and adjusting beliefs that hold you back, especially for those that are perfectionistic in nature, are examples of tools that a therapist might work on with you to help you focus and be less distracted.

Cognitive reframing

Cognitive reframing involves transforming an unhelpful or maladaptive thought into one that is more helpful. As part of CBT, it is common to identify cognitive distortions. This is a term used to describe different types of negative thoughts or patterns of thought. Some examples of negative thought patterns are catastrophizing, labeling, and discounting the positive, and overgeneralizing.

As an example, let’s look at catastrophizing. A catastrophizing thought might be, “I’m having so much trouble with this assignment. I’ll never graduate!” This type of thinking can cause nervousness, sadness, and self-esteem issues. Cognitive reframing might allow you to change that thought into, “This assignment is challenging for me, but I can still succeed if I ask for help!” Using this perspective is both helpful and realistic.

Positive self-talk

Essentially, self-talk entails creating a positive internal dialogue. It is common for people with ADHD to struggle with perfectionism or self-esteem issues. Using positive self-talk techniques can help you adjust your internal dialogue so that it is kinder and more beneficial to your life so that you can achieve your goals and move through life with increased confidence.

Guided discovery

In guided discovery, a counselor or therapist asks questions or otherwise prompts the client to help them work through problems or approach things differently. This may relate to cognitive distortions you have and could go alongside cognitive restructuring practices.

For instance, you might say, “There’s no way I can accomplish this project at work. I am so frustrated with myself for not being able to carry out the task even when I know how to do it. I feel like I’m stuck!” Your therapist might ask you to describe a time when you accomplished a similar task successfully. By doing this, you can improve confidence and explore different ways of approaching the project so that you can get it done.

Relapse prevention

Creating a relapse prevention plan is one of the greatest things therapy can help with. A plan might be needed in this case if symptoms worsen or reappear. Many people find that CBT is effective in helping them create tools they can use outside of therapy sessions. This isn’t an extensive list of all of the techniques that can be used. Other tools, such as mindfulness, are also frequently used.

Effectiveness of CBT for ADHD

Several psychiatry research studies support CBT’s efficacy for ADHD. One randomized controlled trial following treatment for ADHD in 88 college students undergoing CBT found that participants showed significant improvements in executive functioning and a reduction in ADHD symptoms. The study also found a reduction in depression and anxiety symptoms, as well as a decline in ADHD symptoms.

Researchers found that these improvements remained 5 to 7 months after the group’s treatment ended. It was found that mindfulness-based CBT can support attention and emotional control well-being in adults with ADHD. Despite the study above focusing on adults, CBT is not just effective for adults with ADHD. Cognitive behavioral therapy can also be used for kids.

In fact, cognitive behavioral play therapy (CBT combined with play therapy) has been shown to reduce ADHD symptoms in children between the ages of 7 and 9. Older kids and adolescents are more likely to engage in forms of therapy such as CBT in a manner similar to adults. CBT’s effectiveness is likely due to neural plasticity. The term neuroplasticity refers to the brain’s ability to change, which is what CBT aims to accomplish.

Changing thought patterns through CBT techniques leads to new, healthier thought patterns becoming more natural over time. The use of CBT can be combined with other forms of treatment, such as ADHD medications.

How Long Does It Take for CBT to Work?

Perhaps one of the most exciting things about cognitive behavioral therapy is that people often see results quickly. It is widely known that CBT can be highly effective as a short-term treatment; even just 12 sessions can help. Nevertheless, cognitive behavioral therapy often lasts longer than that. This way, individuals can get the most out of the experience and learn a variety of new skills that can help them in the future. You can attend therapy for as long as you need to.

CBT vs. Other Treatment Options

What are some other treatment options for ADHD, and how do they compare to CBT? Here are some forms of support and therapy that may be helpful:

Medication. Medications that stimulate the central nervous system (CNS) are highly effective in treating ADHD. In fact, central nervous system stimulants help 70 to 80% of ADHD sufferers reduce their symptoms. There are also non-stimulant ADHD medications available.
Other forms of therapy. There is evidence that other therapies, like acceptance and commitment therapy, can also reduce the symptoms of ADHD.
Accommodations. In addition to treatment, many people with ADHD require accommodations.
Occupational therapy for ADHD: helps develop and regain meaningful activities in everyday life
Parent training. A parent training program can be helpful and is recommended for parents of children with ADHD.
Games and behavior-tracking apps. In some studies, games used to treat ADHD can increase attention by 68% within 90 days.

Do you suspect you have ADHD? There is no cure for ADHD, but research on cognitive behavioral therapy suggests that symptoms can be improved. You should consult your doctor before changing a physician-recommended treatment regimen.

Takeaway

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a common, well-researched, and non-invasive method of treatment for various concerns and conditions. It has been shown that this form of therapy can help people with ADHD meet a variety of goals they may have. CBT can also help with comorbid conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and insomnia.

ADHD is a disorder that can be disabling to different extents. CBT can benefit people of all ages with ADHD, even though some adjustments may be made to the therapeutic process depending on the person’s age. If you or your child are showing symptoms of ADHD, the San Francisco Stress and Anxiety Center can help, connect with an expert today.