ADHD Online https://adhdonline.com Diagnosis & Treatment Sat, 25 Oct 2025 21:22:40 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3 Lindsay Guentzel Lindsay Guentzel lindsay@adhdonline.com ADHD Online https://adhdonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Refocused-Color-Logo-White-Background.png https://adhdonline.com ADHD Online Diagnosis & Treatment false 2023 ADHD Online Judgment-free zone: Oversharing and therapy https://adhdonline.com/articles/judgment-free-zone-oversharing-and-therapy/ Wed, 27 Aug 2025 17:15:45 +0000 https://adhdonline.com/?p=38845 white square image
Judgment free zone Oversharing and therapy min image

If you’re in therapy to help manage ADHD (or anything else), odds are you’ve found yourself reflecting on your sessions after they’re over. And as you replay those conversations, you may have a certain nagging thought: Did I share too much?

Vulnerability is a critical part of the therapy process. Openly discussing your thoughts, experiences, fears, and emotions can leave you feeling exposed and second-guessing what you chose to divulge. But here’s the good news: There’s really no such thing as oversharing in therapy.

“To be clear, you cannot overshare with your therapist,” says Amy Marschall, Psy.D. ”If there is a topic that the therapist wants to explore later, or they are worried you could become triggered before they help you develop the skills to navigate that, they will guide and redirect as appropriate.”

ADHD and the fear of oversharing

The fear of oversharing can feel particularly intense for people with ADHD. Some may blurt out thoughts unintentionally. Others may be self-conscious of talking about themselves or their interests. “ADHD sometimes makes it harder to tell if other people are interested in what you’re saying,” says Kara Nassour, LPC, NCC.

Even once you realize that it’s normal, and even expected, to divulge personal details during therapy, you may still feel regret about sharing too much.

“In my work with ADHD clients, it is incredibly common for them to apologize for how much they talk, for what they share and for expressing emotions, specifically when they cry,” says Candin Phillips, LPCS. “Many grew up hearing over and over again that they talk too much, that they share intimate information too soon or that their emotions are too much. So they feel ashamed when they do those things in therapy.”

Why you might regret sharing something

There are many reasons you may second-guess opening up to a therapist. Maybe you shared something uncomfortable. Maybe you admitted something for the first time. Maybe you’re used to masking ADHD symptoms and surprised yourself when you let that mask down.

Fortunately, your therapist is the last person you should worry about judging you. There are few places where the term “judgment-free zone” is more applicable than therapy. 

“When clients apologize for crying or becoming upset, I tell them, ‘If you can’t cry in your appointment with a psychologist, when can you?’,” says Marschall.

What to do if you think you’ve overshared

If you share something in session and instantly regret it, don’t hesitate to tell your therapist you’re not ready to discuss further. If the regret hits later, bring it up the next session. Explaining why something felt uncomfortable may make you feel better and help your therapist navigate future conversations. 

“I’m grateful when clients tell me they feel uneasy,” Phillips says. “It helps me understand how hard honest expression is for them outside of therapy.” 

Good therapists will help you explore these feelings, not judge you for having them. From these vulnerable discussions come new insights and an opportunity for growth and real progress.

How much should you share?

There’s no perfect ratio when it comes to how much to share, however, the more your therapist knows about what you’re thinking and feeling, the better equipped they are to support you.

It can feel unnatural to open up, but remember that your therapist wants to hear what you have to say. In fact, it’s one of the most important parts of their job.

“A lot of my work with ADHD clients is helping them take down their defenses,” says therapist Franki Bagdade, LMSW. “They’ve been on the receiving end of negative feedback for so long. I help them see their strengths and understand their struggles.”

If you’re still unsure, don’t hesitate to ask if you’re sharing too much. The likely outcome is that your therapist will reassure you that you’re doing just fine.

Go at your own pace

While it’s worth digging deeper into the moments you feel uncomfortable after opening up in therapy, it doesn’t mean you did anything wrong.

“If a client feels unsafe or judged, that’s on the therapist,” says Cynthia Edwards-Hawver, Psy.D. “It’s our job to make clients feel seen, heard, and validated.”

And if you’re not ready to open up right away, that’s also perfectly fine. Therapy is a gradual process that happens at your pace. But the more open you are, the more progress you’ll make.


Amy Marschall e1729178549248 image

Clinically reviewed by Amy Marschall, PsyD. Dr Marschall has been a licensed psychologist since 2016 and currently owns a private practice, RMH-Therapy, where she provides therapy primarily to children and adolescents and does psychological evaluations and also provides ADHD assessments through ADHD Online.


]]>
Virtual mental health that’s accessible, affordable, and clinically validated https://adhdonline.com/articles/virtual-mental-health-thats-accessible-affordable-and-clinically-validated/ Mon, 04 Aug 2025 13:00:00 +0000 https://adhdonline.com/?p=38763 white square image
Presenting validation study at the World Congress on ADHD min image

At Mentavi Health, our goal is to make comprehensive virtual mental health assessments more accessible to patients nationwide, evaluating for and diagnosing ADHD and other conditions such as anxiety, depression, and OCD.

The data from our landmark validation study* for diagnosing ADHD in Adults marks a significant milestone in the evolution of credible, clinical mental health assessment and treatment in the telehealth space.

About the study

Presenting this data at the World Congress on ADHD — to many of the world’s foremost experts in the field — represents a pivotal moment for advancing both the diagnosis of adult ADHD and the clinical credibility of telehealth.”

— Keith Brophy, CEO, Mentavi Health

With scientific rigor and clinical oversight, we created a study comparing our Diagnostic Evaluation to the current standard of care for ADHD diagnosis of adults, a face-to-face clinical interview by a trained mental health clinician applying DSM-5 criteria.

The study set out to prove that our digital evaluation could deliver the same accuracy as a traditional clinical interview, only in more convenient, widely accessible ways.

Why clinical validation matters

Adult ADHD remains significantly underdiagnosed and untreated due to barriers such as cost, geography, stigma, and clinician shortages, leaving people without answers or support.

While telehealth evaluations address those gaps in diagnosis and treatment, they also garner a fair amount of skepticism. Many remain hesitant over concerns about accuracy and reliability Can an online-only solution really deliver the same results as traditional methods?

Put simply, yes. The results showed that the Mentavi Mental Health Diagnostic Evaluation is as effective as traditional methods in diagnosing ADHD in adults.

Methods and findings

A total of 345 participants were selected from a pool of more than 2,000 adults seeking online ADHD evaluations for a side-by-side comparison between a secure Zoom-based clinical interview with a licensed psychologist and our asynchronous Diagnostic Evaluation.

The findings revealed a strong 78% agreement rate between the two methods, particularly for ADHD positive cases. The study also showed that the Diagnostic Evaluation demonstrated

  • A 94.9% Positive Predictive Value (PPV) for ADHD positive cases.
  • A false positive rate of 12% versus 56% for the clinical interview.
  • A more conservative rate of diagnosis, suggesting overdiagnosis with our Diagnostic Evaluation is not occurring. In cases where a definitive diagnosis was not confirmed, a recommendation for further evaluation was offered.

The future of mental health treatment

“This study validates that rigorously developed asynchronous tools can deliver diagnostic outcomes comparable to traditional methods, enabling timely, scalable access to high-quality care.”

— Barry K. Herman, MD, MMM, Chief Medical Officer

Virtual mental health evaluations are not just convenient and accessible — we’ve demonstrated that they’re also credible and accurate. These findings reinforce our belief in and commitment to evidence-based, thoughtfully designed digital tools that not only deliver reliable results but foster more widespread adoption of telehealth solutions.

Partnering for better outcomes

We’re here to help your patients, members, employees, and students thrive. Together, we can continue making the future of mental health care more accessible, affordable, and streamlined for all. 

To learn more about partnership opportunities with Mentavi Health, visit Mentavi.com/contactus.

*Diagnostic evaluation is clinically validated for the diagnosis of ADHD in Adults. Study results presented at the 2025 ADHD World Congress.

]]>
Managing seasonal affective disorder (SAD) https://adhdonline.com/articles/managing-seasonal-affective-disorder-sad/ Mon, 17 Feb 2025 14:00:00 +0000 https://adhdonline.com/?p=37914 white square image

For many, the winter months bring an air of lethargy. It’s gloomy, it’s cold (for some more than others), and the craze of the seasons usually means that our regular goings-on fall by the wayside. And while all of this can cause spurts of disinterest for anyone, if you find your symptoms are prolonged, it could be something more.

Managing seasonal affective disorder SAD image

What’s observed as “hibernation” in the natural world is, in the human world, referred to as seasonal affective disorder (SAD), or “seasonal depression,” and it affects millions of people during darker winter months. Believed by some to be triggered by changes in serotonin and melatonin levels, your “winter blues” start to creep into the area of SAD if your symptoms of sadness and anxiety, irritability, lack of interest and focus, sleep irregularities, and even weight gain begin to influence your daily life. Understanding seasonal affective disorder is crucial for those experiencing its effects, as recognizing the symptoms can lead to timely interventions and support. Treatment options vary, including light therapy, counseling, and lifestyle changes, which can help alleviate the symptoms and improve overall well-being. By proactively addressing these challenges, individuals can enhance their quality of life during the darker months of the year.

Fortunately, there are methods you can implement to navigate the wave of winter and come out on the other side (hello, spring!).

Maintain a consistent schedule

Shorter days mean less sunlight, which can often mean time blindness. Combat this by keeping regular wake and sleep times to stabilize your body’s internal clock. Try waking up and going to bed at the same time each day, including weekends. This regularity can improve both sleep quality and mood.

Stay connected with society

While SAD can make you want to isolate, staying involved and active with your social circle is crucial. Schedule regular meetups with friends, join winter activities or groups, and stay in touch with loved ones through calls or video chats. The most effective support can often exist in the form of those closest to you.

When you can, spend daylight hours in natural light

Even on cloudy days, natural light exposure is beneficial. Take a morning walk, have your coffee by a window, or arrange your workspace near natural light. When Mother Nature allows, do some physical activity outdoors during daylight hours — your brain and your body will thank you.

And when you can’t, mimic natural light with light therapy

It’s a plan B for natural light, but it’s a highly regarded one. Light therapy — the use of a special light box that mimics natural light — is the most established treatment for SAD. Quick-acting and not time-consuming, people often see results of light therapy within two to four days. Every morning, 15 to 30 minutes. 

Tip: Not all light boxes are created equal, so look for one that provides 10,000 lux of light and filters out harmful UV rays.

Exercise and eat well

Physical activity is particularly effective against SAD symptoms. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise a few days each week. The good news here? The weather isn’t a factor: Double up on natural light exposure and exercise outdoors (win-win), or enjoy indoor activities like yoga, pilates, or strength training equipment when the weather does not permit.

Few conversations about physical exercise fail to also mention nutrition, which influences many things, including mood. Focus on complex carbohydrates to increase energy levels; omega-3-rich foods to improve cognitive function and memory; and vitamin D-rich foods to make up for any deficiency you may experience during times of the year with less sunlight.

Tip: It’s not only about what you’re eating but also when. By regulating meal times, your body is better able to maintain stable blood sugar levels.

Be intentional about your environment

We’re not making this a nature vs. nurture thing, but there’s something to be said for an intentional and curated space and its effect on your mood and mindset. Make your indoor spaces bright and airy: open curtains and blinds, trim trees that block sunlight, and paint walls in lighter colors. Make space for the feel-good hormones.

If you need more help, seek it

Whether you’ve explored every option or none at all, finding and working with a mental health professional is hugely beneficial no matter the season. They can offer things like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), strategies to manage negative thought patterns, support in maintaining healthy habits, and medication management when appropriate.

As you explore ways to overcome SAD, explore what else might be going on with the  Mentavi Mental Wellness Snapshot. It’s a meaningful act of self-care and a great way to see what else might be affecting your mood this winter.

]]>
A real-talk mental health guide to your brain and relationships  https://adhdonline.com/articles/a-real-talk-mental-health-guide-to-your-brain-and-relationships/ Mon, 10 Feb 2025 13:56:22 +0000 https://adhdonline.com/?p=37899 white square image

Navigating relationships with anxiety, ADHD, or depression can sometimes emphasize the differences in your inner workings; everything that seems to come naturally to others might require extra thought and energy from you. But understanding how your brain works can actually help you build stronger, more authentic connections with the people in your life.

Let’s talk about what’s really going on and what actually helps.

Mental health and relationships image

The reality of your experiences

Living with anxiety, ADHD, or depression means that your brain processes social interactions and emotions differently. Because of ADHD, you might forget to text back for days while simultaneously feeling intense emotions about your relationships. Anxiety can have you overthinking every interaction and assuming the worst, and depression might drain your social battery so completely that even reaching out to your closest friends feels impossible.

These aren’t character flaws — they’re real neurological and psychological experiences that affect how you interact and connect with others. And accepting this reality is the first step toward building and maintaining stronger relationships.

The power of communication

In actuality, being open about your struggles can strengthen your relationships, especially when complemented by someone who understands your challenges and appreciates all of the unique ways that you show care. 

Maybe this sounds like: “Sometimes I take a while to respond because my ADHD makes me lose track of messages, but I care about you and our friendship.”

On a surface level, this sentiment might seem simple, but this kind of transparency does two things — it helps others to understand you better, and it gives them permission to be open about their own struggles.

Practical strategies that actually work

For ADHD:

orange diamond image Set intentional reminders to check in with the important people in your life

orange diamond image Use voice messages when typing feels daunting

orange diamond image Schedule regular catch-ups that become part of your routine

For anxiety:

orange diamond image Share your anxiety patterns with trusted friends so they can support you

orange diamond image Practice “reality checking” your assumptions with someone you trust

orange diamond image Create comfortable social routines that aren’t overwhelming

For depression:

orange diamond image Let close friends know when you’re in a low period

orange diamond image Be okay with “low-energy” hangouts (sometimes watching TV together is enough)

orange diamond image Keep connections alive with small gestures when big ones feel impossible

The setting (and maintaining) of boundaries

Implementing clear boundaries is necessary to build healthy relationships. Your emotional and social functions work differently than many others’, so maybe you need more alone time to recharge, or maybe group settings overwhelm you. By communicating these needs clearly (and offering gentle reminders of them as needed), you create a solid foundation for yourself and the relationships you care about. 

Reminders for when things get rocky

Relationships are complex. And relationship dynamics compounded by mental health struggles can feel especially intense. Here are some key things to keep in mind (always, but particularly during rough patches):

orange diamond image It’s okay to step back and take care of yourself

orange diamond image You can ask for what you need, which might sound like,”I’m having a hard time right now and could use some extra understanding”

orange diamond image There is professional support that can  help you navigate both your mental health and your relationships — and it’s okay to seek it

A new perspective

The uniqueness of your brain can bring depth and richness to your relationships. With your anxiety, ADHD, or depression comes an incredibly empathetic and loyal friend or partner who understands struggle, is deeply attuned to others’ emotions, and who values authentic connections.

See how anxiety, ADHD, or depression might be affecting your relationships with the Mentavi Mental Wellness Snapshot.

]]>
Beating the Winter Blues: Your Practical Guide to Feeling Better https://adhdonline.com/articles/beating-the-winter-blues-your-practical-guide-to-feeling-better/ Tue, 14 Jan 2025 14:00:00 +0000 https://adhdonline.com/?p=37787 white square image

Ever wonder why you feel down more often during these short, dark, cold days? 

It’s all about your body’s natural rhythms. 

Your body’s light sensors, located in your eyes, help regulate a delicate balance between melatonin (the sleep hormone) and serotonin (a mood booster). They’re particularly sensitive to the bright morning light that signals your brain to start the day. 

winter blues image

This natural wake-up call is disrupted by fewer daylight hours and darker mornings. That means more melatonin, less serotonin, and the general chaos you feel in your internal clock.

These mood changes, often referred to as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), affect millions, especially people living farther from the equator where winter days are shortest.

Fortunately, there are ways to manage the symptoms of SAD between now and the spring equinox. 

First, aim to get outside within two hours of waking up, even on cold, cloudy days. The morning light tells your brain, “It’s daytime!” which helps regulate your sleep and mood. A 15-minute walk around the block can make a surprising difference.

Then, flood your space with as much light as possible. Open those curtains wide and position yourself near windows where you can. Consider getting a light therapy lamp. Turning it on and sitting next to it for 20-30 minutes while having your morning coffee can help boost your mood and energy.

Movement is medicine and any kind of movement will do. You don’t need to walk or run for miles or stress about intense workouts. Dance to your favorite music, stretch, or do some gentle yoga. Find a kind of movement you enjoy so you’ll be more likely to do it and experience the benefits.

Though our tendency might be hibernation, social connections matter more than ever in winter. Text a friend, schedule a weekly video chat, or join a local club. Even brief social interactions can lift your mood significantly.

Structure helps too. Try to wake up and go to bed at consistent times. Plan one thing each day to look forward to, even something small like a favorite podcast or hot bath.

Most importantly, be gentle with yourself. Winter blues are real, and you’re not “just being lazy.” If you’re struggling, contact a mental health professional – they can provide additional strategies tailored to you.

Spring will come again. Until then, these small daily actions can help make winter more manageable. You’ve got this, and you’re not alone in this journey.

Looking for a mental health professional to help you navigate the winter blues? Explore our psychotherapy with us.

]]>
Embracing ADHD in the new year (and beyond) https://adhdonline.com/articles/embracing-adhd-in-the-new-year-and-beyond/ Wed, 01 Jan 2025 14:00:00 +0000 https://adhdonline.com/?p=37733 white square image

As we herald another year, you might find yourself immersed in the familiar kaleidoscope of seemingly scattered thoughts and ideas. But the ADHD brain is distinctive and unique, and research consistently shows that neurodivergent individuals possess significant cognitive advantages that can lead to notable achievements in various fields.

New Year with ADHD image

Society often sees ADHD as a hurdle to overcome or a challenge to manage. But what if the very traits that make you different are actually your greatest strengths? Those moments when your thoughts seem to race ahead — that’s your brain making connections others might never see. By redefining your perception of ADHD, you can turn traditional struggles into modern advantages in 2025 (and beyond).

The power of neurodivergent thinking

Your ADHD mind naturally thinks outside conventional boundaries, an exceedingly valuable trait in today’s rapidly evolving world. Reframe your perception around things that society deems disadvantageous by converting your high energy into productive momentum, using your quick-thinking nature to adapt to changing situations, and repurposing your impulsivity into spontaneous innovation.

The art of hyperfocus

Rather than fighting against your fluctuating attention levels, you can choose to work with them. And you don’t have to do it alone. Whether in the form of a family member or friend offering accountability support or simply embracing technology and smart tools to create and maintain momentum, there are myriad proven resources for improving productivity with ADHD. 

Utilize time-blocking techniques that align with your natural energy cycles. Create an environment that supports both focused work and creative thinking. When channeled effectively and intentionally, hyperfocus can quickly evolve from an adversity into an advantage.

The cache of creativity

Your ADHD mind is a reservoir of creativity, from your ability to interpret the world around you in ways others may not to repurposing stimulation sensitivities into enhanced creative awareness. Those of us living with ADHD often struggle with inner inhibition — we have trouble resisting the desire to say or do something. And while not always ideal, it also makes us less likely to silence our flow of artistic, complex, or experimental ideas.

When you can recognize abstract projects and activities that naturally engage your hyperfocus, what once were relentless struggles can translate into boundless creativity. 

A way forward

Building a support system that understands and appreciates your strengths and experiences is essential in achieving your goals. Connect with ADHD and mental health coaches, join communities of like-minded individuals, cultivate relationships with mentors, or simply lean on your inner circle. 

By starting with small, achievable changes, building routines that respect your energy patterns, and celebrating progress while learning from setbacks, the very traits that might seem challenging can become your greatest advantages in a world that increasingly values creativity, adaptability, and innovative thinking.

Small starts for big changes

Start today by identifying one aspect of your ADHD that you’ve traditionally viewed as challenging. How might you reframe it as a strength? What opportunities could it create? Remember, the goal isn’t to change who you are but to fully embrace and leverage your unique capabilities.

As you step into this new year, remind yourself that your ADHD is a fundamental source of your strength and potential: Your way of thinking is valuable, your energy a strength, your creativity is needed, and your perspective matters.

]]>
Mentavi Health Adds Sleep Coach Amanda Chocko to Support Its Comprehensive Mental Health Services https://adhdonline.com/press-releases/mentavi-health-adds-sleep-coach-amanda-chocko-to-support-its-comprehensive-mental-health-services/ Fri, 20 Dec 2024 14:00:00 +0000 https://adhdonline.com/?p=37709 Recognizing the connection between sleep disorders and conditions like ADHD, the leader in online mental health testing, diagnosis and care adds a practitioner dedicated to helping people improve the quality of their sleep

white square image

GRAND RAPIDS, MI. (Newswire.com) – Nearly 37% of U.S. adults – more than one out of every three people – get too little sleep each day. Sleep disorders are also correlated with many mental health conditions: For example, up to 75% of people with ADHD (Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) also have trouble getting enough sleep. Those statistics illustrate why Mentavi Health is pleased to add sleep coach Amanda Chocko to its diverse team of expert mental health caregivers.

Amanda Chocko Sleep Coach image

Mentavi Health, a leader in accessible and comprehensive behavioral health services, provides diagnosis and treatment across a wide range of mental health conditions. The clinical team comprises psychologists, physicians, nurse practitioners, therapists, and coaches who guide patients through personalized treatment paths.

Chocko, a nationally known author, therapist and sleep coach, joined Mentavi Health on November 22. She reinforces the Mentavi Health care team’s commitment to offering patients all treatment options, including medication treatment, therapy provided by doctorate-level psychologists, and mental wellness coaching.

“We’re excited to have Amanda Chocko joining the Mentavi Health family,” said Mentavi Chief Medical Officer Barry K. Herman, M.D., M.M.M. “This addition aligns with Mentavi Health/ADHD Online’s strategy to provide comprehensive care for individuals with ADHD and related conditions. By incorporating a Sleep Coach, we are enhancing our ability to offer solutions that address the complex challenges our patients face, further establishing ourselves as a leader in ADHD care.”

Chocko is an experienced sleep coach and functional nutritional therapy practitioner who specializes in helping people improve their sleep quality through evidence-based techniques and practical tools for ADHD patients. Her tailored, evidence-based sleep strategies promote better sleep hygiene, strengthen daily routines, and enhance mental and physical well-being.

She is the author of “Relax Sleep Thrive – Your Five-Week Journey to Peaceful, Restorative Sleep,” which offers a comprehensive, easy-to-follow program designed to help people identify and resolve their sleep issues through personalized, actionable solutions. She has provided personalized sleep coaching to patients nationwide, helping them with insomnia and other sleep disturbances associated with ADHD.

“The science is abundantly clear that sleep is closely linked to our overall emotional and mental health,” Chocko said. “I’m thrilled to have the opportunity work with Mentavi Health to help people take control of their conditions and achieve wellness.”

A long-running study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that Americans’ sleep problems are becoming more prevalent. In 2013, about 33% of women and 34% of men reported getting less than seven hours of sleep nightly. By 2023, those percentages climbed to about 36% and 38% percent respectively.

Poor sleep can be more common among people with mental health conditions. Research has shown that 55% to 75% of people with ADHD also suffer from sleep disorders. Similar relationships have been found between sleep and depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, autism spectrum disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Sleep disorders can exacerbate the symptoms of such conditions and interfere with treatment. Mentavi Health supports patients in practicing sleep hygiene to get sufficient sleep. Methods include maintaining a regular sleep schedule, exercising regularly, using relaxation techniques, blocking excess lights, and avoiding use of electronic devices an hour before bedtime.

For more information about diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders or other mental health concerns, visit https://mentavi.com.

About Mentavi Health and ADHD Online

Established as ADHD Online in 2018, Mentavi Health has evolved to encompass a broader range of mental health services. With the mission to make quality ADHD assessments accessible to all, Mentavi has grown to address not only ADHD but also the most common related mental health conditions. The nationwide Mentavi Diagnostic Evaluation and various treatment options showcase the company’s commitment to providing comprehensive, accessible, compliant online mental health care.

Source: Mentavi Health


About Mentavi Health

View Website or Media Room

With our proven model of separating assessment from treatment, holding ourselves to rigorous clinical standards, and streamlining care, we help patients take control of their lives across a spectrum of mental health needs.

Company Address

Mentavi Health
625 Kenmoor Ave SE (Ste 301)
Grand Rapids, MI 49546 
United States

Original Source: newswire.com

]]>
Looking for Therapy? Here Are 5 Reasons to Choose a Doctorate-Level Psychologist https://adhdonline.com/articles/looking-for-therapy-here-are-5-reasons-to-choose-a-doctorate-level-psychologist/ Mon, 02 Dec 2024 20:32:15 +0000 https://adhdonline.com/?p=37621 white square image

When you’re navigating your mental health journey, choosing the right therapist can make all the difference. Opting for a psychologist offers unique benefits, providing you with expertise and insight that elevate the therapy experience. Here’s a closer look at why a psychologist might be the ideal choice for your mental wellness.

5 Reasons to Choose a Doctorate Level Psychologist image

1. Extensive Education and Training

Doctorate-level psychologists (PhD or PsyD) invest 4 to 6 years in rigorous training, encompassing specialized coursework and hands-on clinical practice.

Deep Knowledge: Their studies focus on human behavior and scientific research, ensuring a strong foundation for evidence-based care.

Treatment Readiness: With an additional 1 to 2 years of supervised patient work, they’re equipped to handle complex mental health issues with confidence.
This level of preparation means they’re ready to address your concerns with skill and depth.

2. Advanced Expertise in Psychological Assessment

A psychologist is skilled in conducting comprehensive psychological assessments and diagnostic evaluations.

Accurate Diagnoses: They’re adept at diagnosing a wide range of conditions, from ADHD to mood disorders, which ensures your treatment is never superficial.

Personalized Care: They develop tailored treatment plans using their psychometric expertise, providing care specifically designed for your needs.
Imagine having a treatment plan that feels truly crafted just for you.

3. Specialized Treatment Methods

Psychologists are trained in evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and psychodynamic therapy, and they bring a rich toolkit to therapy.

Tailored Approaches: They apply specialized techniques suited to more complex issues, enhancing the effectiveness of treatment.

Real-World Success

Thanks to these targeted therapies, many have seen remarkable transformations in their clients’ lives.

Picture engaging in a therapy approach that’s both effective and tailored to your unique challenges.

4. Commitment to Research-Based Practice

Many doctorate-level psychologists are active in mental health research, keeping them at the forefront of therapeutic advances.

Staying Current: Their involvement in research means they’re continuously updated with the latest therapeutic techniques.

Innovative Treatments: This dedication ensures you’re receiving the most advanced care available, especially for complex diagnoses.
Rest assured, your therapist uses cutting-edge methods grounded in the latest mental health science.

5. Expertise in Complex Conditions

Psychologists are experienced in managing co-occurring conditions, allowing them to create unified treatment plans for layered mental health issues.

Holistic Approach: They can address multiple conditions, such as ADHD and anxiety, with cohesive strategies.

Comprehensive Support: Their ability to handle complex mental health needs ensures a well-rounded approach to your care.

Finding mental health solutions can be challenging, but a skilled psychologist helps simplify that journey.

Choosing a psychologist isn’t just about finding a therapist; it’s about partnering with someone who brings unparalleled expertise and empathy to your healing process. With their advanced training and dedication, they offer a sophisticated layer of support that can be transformative.

Ready to experience these benefits? Take the next step by connecting with one of our doctorate-level psychologists.

Empowering yourself with the right support brings you closer to a healthier tomorrow!

]]>
How Women Can Take Care of Their Mental Health https://adhdonline.com/articles/how-women-can-take-care-of-their-mental-health/ Tue, 29 Oct 2024 13:00:00 +0000 https://adhdonline.com/?p=37415 white square image
How Women Can Take Care of Their Mental Health image

Mental health, an integral component of overall well-being, often takes a backseat for women amidst the hustle of career aspirations, family responsibilities, and societal expectations. But in the quiet moments between the demands of daily life, many women find themselves grappling with unseen battles. The societal pressure to excel in every role can lead to chronic stress and anxiety that is only made worse by limited support systems and economic constraints. 

One in Five

This reality for women shows up in the statistics. Approximately one in five women in the United States and the United Kingdom experience common mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and eating disorders. These numbers are not just figures; they represent the stories of mothers, professionals, students, and leaders.

A Deeply Rooted Problem

The roots of these mental health challenges are multifaceted. Beyond the societal norms and unrealistic standards that contribute to anxiety and depression,  economic factors, including higher rates of poverty and the expectation to be primary caregivers also play a role. Women are more likely to experience physical and sexual abuse, which can have long-lasting effects such as PTSD and depression. 

And then natural life stages such as pregnancy, postpartum periods, and menopause, each a time of profound hormonal and emotional shifts, can surface or lead to even more challenges. 

Glimmers of Hope

Despite these challenges, women often possess inherent strengths that act as protective factors against mental health struggles. Strong social networks, the ability to communicate emotions effectively, and a propensity to seek help are pillars that support mental resilience.  

Actionable Steps

Empowering women to take charge of their mental health involves a combination of self-care practices and professional support. Here are a few ways to act today for yourself or the women in your life:

Reduce Stigma

Encouraging open conversations about feelings and emotions can dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health. 

Prioritize Movement

Physical activity and a balanced diet are not just beneficial for the body but also play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy mind. 

Create and Embrace Community 

Support groups, whether in-person or online, offer a sense of belonging and understanding that can be immensely therapeutic. 

Advocate

Policy and advocacy also play a critical role in shaping the landscape of women’s mental health. Integrating mental health considerations into broader health policies can address systemic issues such as economic inequality and access to healthcare. 

Ultimately, nurturing mental health is a continuous journey that requires collective effort and understanding. By fostering open dialogues, providing accessible resources, and advocating for supportive policies, society can create an environment where women are empowered to prioritize their mental wellness. In doing so, we not only enhance individual lives but also build a healthier, more compassionate world for future generations.

Take care of your mental health today with our Diagnostic Evaluation to see if ADHD has been getting in your way.

]]>