Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder that makes focusing, sitting still, and controlling impulses extra challenging. While ADHD has historically been viewed as a condition mainly impacting boys and men, we now know it affects women in equal numbers. However, women with ADHD tend to be overlooked and underdiagnosed. When ADHD goes undetected in women, it can lead to impaired functioning, mental health issues, relationship problems and lost potential.
At Renewing Mindsets, we specialize in providing ADHD testing and treatment tailored to the needs of women and girls. Our team of female ADHD specialists takes the time to thoroughly evaluate the unique ways ADHD presents in women and craft customized treatment plans to help them thrive. Read on to learn more about our services.
ADHD Testing Designed for Women
ADHD often goes unrecognized in girls and women because it commonly manifests differently than in males. Women with ADHD tend to have less outward hyperactivity and more struggles with:
Focusing and sustaining attention
Organization, procrastination and forgetfulness
Emotional dysregulation and moodiness
Impulse spending and self-medication
Low motivation and difficulty initiating tasks
Mental restlessness and inner frenzy
Our ADHD specialists are very experienced in identifying and accurately diagnosing how ADHD presents in women. We conduct thorough evaluations using clinical interviews, rating scales, cognitive testing, and third party input. This comprehensive process leads to proper identification so that women don’t suffer needlessly without treatment.
ADHD Treatment Tailored for Women
Once diagnosed, we develop customized treatment plans aligned with each woman’s symptom profile, lifestyle and goals. While medication is often a component of treatment, our integrative approach addresses the whole woman through:
Medication management - We help find the optimal ADHD medications at the lowest effective doses to minimize side effects. We carefully track benefits and adjust dosing over time for each individual.
Lifestyle adjustments - We provide guidance on sleep, exercise, nutrition and stress management tailored to the ADHD brain. Building healthy routines enhances overall functioning and medication effectiveness.
Psychotherapy - We address ADHD-related issues like negative thought patterns, low self-worth, emotional dysregulation, disorganization and relationship conflicts through counseling approaches like CBT and emotion-focused therapy.
ADHD coaching - We teach organization and planning skills, offer educational groups, and provide ADHD-informed parenting guidance to help minimize weaknesses and capitalize on strengths.
Holistic wellness - We emphasize self-care through mindfulness, massage, yoga, spending time in nature and creative expression. Integrating wellness and community support aids healing on all levels.
By combining evidence-based treatments with compassionate support, we empower women to manage ADHD symptoms, embrace neurodiversity and reach their full potential.
Signs of ADHD in Women
ADHD symptoms overlap between men and women, but certain characteristics are more common in women. Consider the possibility of ADHD if you relate to several of these experiences:
Extreme distractibility and disorganization
Restlessness and feeling internally rushed
Difficulty finishing tasks or following through
Chronic lateness, forgetfulness
Frequently misplacing items
Extreme mood swings and emotional sensitivity
Trouble managing stress and easy overwhelm
Impulse shopping/spending or substance misuse
Low motivation and severe procrastination
Poor sleep and forgetting self-care
Relationship conflicts over reliability
If these symptoms significantly impair work, relationships or daily life, an ADHD evaluation can provide clarity. Our compassionate specialists will listen to your struggles and help you find answers.
Benefits of Testing and Treatment at Renewing Mindsets
Seeking testing and treatment is an act of courage and self-care. At Renewing Mindsets, clients share feeling:
Validated: Finally there are answers and proof you’re not just lazy or scatterbrained.
Understood: Your symptoms have logical explanations you can now manage.
Hopeful: Effective treatment strategies create paths to reaching your potential.
Supported: Our team provides specialized expertise but also emotional backing on this journey.
Relieved: Medication and therapy provide tangible tools to minimize ADHD impairment.
Confident: Treatment allows your talents and abilities to shine through.
Don't struggle alone. Call us today at (484)-948-5400 to learn more or schedule an appointment. Renewing mindsets renews lives.
Finding an ADHD Specialist for Women in Philadelphia and the Main Line
Here are tips for finding providers specially equipped to evaluate and treat ADHD in women:
Reach out to Renewing Mindsets to assess your needs and meet with one of our mental health professionals.
Search online directories like Psychology Today filtering by gender, ADHD specialization and location.
Look for practitioners who publish, speak at conferences, or belong to professional groups related to women with ADHD. This demonstrates a particular interest and expertise.
Ask prospective providers about their experience diagnosing and treating women with ADHD, as well as common patterns they observe.
Get a referral from a therapist or doctor familiar with your symptoms who can direct you to an appropriate specialist.
Verify credentials - you want someone licensed like a psychologist, psychiatrist or developmental pediatrician.
Check reviews and feedback about their testing process and bedside manner. Look for great listeners who take time explaining.
The right specialist for you is out there. With improved understanding and proper treatment, a bright future awaits. You deserve to thrive!