Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Beyond distraction - understanding the full picture.
What is ADHD
More than difficulty focusing.
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is one of the most commonly misunderstood neurodevelopmental conditions. ADHD affects far more than attention - it impacts executive function, emotional regulation, impulse control, motivation and self-esteem. Left unaddressed it can affect relationships, academic performance, career success and overall wellbeing
- ADHD looks different in every person. In some it presents as hyperactivity and impulsivity. In others, particularly women and girls, it shows up as chronic disorganization, emotional sensitivity, difficulty completing tasks and a persistent sense of underachievement despite high intelligence and effort. Many people reach adulthood without ever receiving a diagnosis.
- At Karasick Psychology we provide both comprehensive ADHD assessment and evidence-based treatment for adolescents and adults - including those who are newly diagnosed, late diagnosed or seeking a formal evaluation for the first time.
Symptoms
Common experiences
Attention & Focus
- Difficulty sustaining attention on boring tasks
- Easily distracted by external or internal stimuli
- Frequently losing things
- Trouble organizing tasks and activities
- Difficulty following through on instructions
- Mind wandering during conversations
- Underachievement despite high intelligence or capability
- Avoidance of tasks requiring sustained mental effort
Executive Function
- Poor time management or time blindness
- Difficulty initiating tasks
- Trouble shifting between tasks
- Working memory deficits
- Difficulty planning and prioritizing
- Inconsistent performance
Hyperactivity/Impulsivity
- Fidgeting or squirming
- Leaving seat when expected to remain seated
- Talking excessively
- Always "on the go"
- Restlessness or a constantly racing mind
- Blurting out answers or finishing others sentences
- Impulsive decision-making
- Acting without thinking through consequences
Emotional
- Low frustration tolerance and difficulty managing stress
- Quick to anger or irritability
- Intense emotional reactions that feel hard to control
- Rejection sensitive dysphoria — extreme distress to perceived criticism
- Mood swings
- Overwhelm in response to stress
ADHD Presentations
ADHD is diagnosed across three types
Inattentive
Characterised by difficulty sustaining attention, chronic disorganization, forgetfulness and trouble completing tasks. Often overlooked – particularly in women and girls – because it presents without hyperactivity or obvious behavioural disruption.
Hyperactive-Impulsive
Characterised by restlessness, impulsivity, difficulty waiting and a need for constant stimulation. More commonly identified in childhood due to its visible behavioural presentation.
Combined
The most common presentation – involving both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms. Affects attention, impulse control, emotional regulation and executive functioning across multiple areas of life.
ADHD Assessment
Not sure if you or your teenager has ADHD? A comprehensive assessment provides the clarity you need. We offer formal ADHD assessments for adolescents and adults including those seeking a late diagnosis.
ADHD Treatment
Evidence-based support tailored to how your brain works.
Treatment for ADHD at Karasick Psychology is individualized — built around your specific presentation, goals and life circumstances. We draw primarily from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy adapted for ADHD, and biofeedback to support nervous system regulation and emotional self-regulation.
ADHD treatment addresses not just symptoms but the deeper impact ADHD has had on self-esteem, relationships and quality of life. Many clients find that understanding their ADHD through a strengths-based lens – recognizing what their brain does well alongside what it finds challenging — is itself transformative.
What to expect
Sessions are 50 minutes and tailored to your specific needs and goals. Most clients notice meaningful shifts within 8-12 sessions.