In the past ADHD was believed to be outgrown after childhood, because traditional symptoms of impulsivity, hyperactivity, attention and organizational problems seemed to diminish.  Recent findings reveal developmental maturation of the brain after adolescence provides more flexible coping mechanisms to compensate for the neurological deficits of ADHD.  However, adults diagnosed as children (and adults diagnosed for the first time), are still working exponentially harder than others to accomplish general life tasks.  For instance, someone with ADHD often struggles with sensing the passage of time.  This creates difficulty managing time and operating with an adequate understanding of how long tasks take to be accomplished.  Someone who struggles in this area could have difficulty estimating departure times in order to arrive at a given hour, or strain to accurately gage how much time a certain task will take.  Another frequent struggle pertains to processing multiple stimuli, such as trying to type a paper while the radio is on, or following a conversation in a noisy room. This same difficulty could also hinder simultaneous processing of different stimuli, such as reading while eating a meal or trying to take down a phone number while watching a movie.  Another problem can arise with sustaining prolonged amounts of focus or attention even in the absence of distracting stimuli, such as reading an uninteresting book in a quiet library, or following through a complete train of thought while alone in the shower.  Adults with ADHD often struggle with the tyranny of the urgent or with living too much in the moment, even as they did in childhood.  In this case, momentary experiences tend to speak loudest, while memory or anticipation of negative consequences connected with a certain choice may be distant or drowned out.  This can result in impulsive choices with negative consequences available to the struggler in hindsight, but which constantly elude awareness beforehand in order to enable redirection of choices.

Often in adulthood, the turmoil and chaos of these struggles can be managed through mental capacities available to adults that were not available as children.  However, the underlying energy, endurance and toleration needed to operate in life with this excess eventually take their toll, and anxiety or depression can result.  Consequently, a tendency to be overwhelmed or reach personal limits of cognitive endurance before others frequently occurs. This may happen in particular instances where personal strengths are more average rather than gifted, such as a manager handling multiple requests at once.  Or it can happen through loss of endurance over time in the midst of a string of challenges or tasks, such as diminishing capacity to engage in long amounts of data entry, which had earlier been relatively easy. Additionally, adults with ADHD may be able to cope with these deficits in some areas of their lives but not others.  Over time, the areas devoid of this coping can begin to break down, and problems develop:  Work performance can suffer, or marital relationships can become strained.  Oftentimes some sort of crisis or trial arises that begins a breakdown in emotional or daily functioning.  These can be of a positive or negative nature: the death of a close friend or relative, the birth of a new child, the loss of a job or a promotion to greater responsibilities.  It is also not uncommon for those living or working in proximity to the adult with ADHD to be more aware of these symptoms than the adult him or herself.  Sometimes the initial crisis that brings attention to this problem can be someone else in the family: a spouse’s emotional breakdown in depression or anxiety, a child’s behavioral or learning problems in school (which can frequently unveil the existence of ADHD running in the family). 

As was mentioned earlier, neurological research has revealed multiple styles of ADHD:  Besides the classic Non-Attentive and Hyperactive types, styles of ADHD with obsessive and ruminating qualities (Over-Focused), listlessness and lethargy (Limbic), mood instability and learning/memory problems (Temporal Lobe) or explosiveness and cyclical mood swings (Ring of Fire) have also been identified by Dr. Daniel Amen and his colleagues at the Amen Clinics.  For each of these types, some differences in approach to diet and medication exist.  For instance, in the Over-Focused type of ADHD, the preferred medical treatment of some form of Ritalin or stimulant can sometimes exacerbate anxiety and other emotional conditions until the obsessive or anxious component is treated with something like Effexor or one of the SSRI’s. A couple of factors in Dr. Amen’s approach have broad appeal:  He discusses nutritional and herbal supplements appropriate to each condition as well as medication.  He also bases his approach on the physical evidence of the brain scan, based on the commonly known functions of different parts of the brain such as the Temporal Lobe and the Pre-frontal Cortex.  Unlike traditional psychiatry, which relies on observed or self-reported symptoms to make a diagnosis, this approach is neurologically based on the same techniques that diagnose brain trauma and dementia in the medical field.  It combines this neurological approach with the reported and observed clinical symptoms, in order to more specifically target the selection of medications. 

Unfortunately, this neuro-psychiatric approach is not widely available, can be expensive and is not broadly accepted in the medical and psychiatric communities.  However, the discovery of the different categories and their delineation of nutritional supplements and medications for each type can still be useful.  Dr. Amen also has self-report diagnostic tests available on his website which can identify the likelihood each type may be prevalent.  Also, presenting detailed personal symptoms based on each appropriate category to a traditional psychiatrist can facilitate recommendations for medications similar to Dr. Amen’s research findings.  

In addition to these neurological variations of ADHD, other independent conditions can coexist such as Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Depression or Anxiety.  The latest research also shows coexisting problems with various forms of substance or process addiction can sometimes develop for those struggling with ADHD.  Particular attention has fallen on how those with process addictions such as compulsive gambling or sexual addiction frequently have preexisting conditions of ADHD, anxiety or depression.  (It is significant to note that this prevalence does not go the other way around: those with ADHD, depression or anxiety DO NOT predominantly have, by nature, coexisting problems with process or substance addiction.)  These episodes of depression, anxiety, substance abuse or process addiction can sometimes be the “crisis” or break down that occurs from coping with ADHD over time, or they can be part of an inherited cluster of conditions that might run in the family history.  This history may be formally diagnosed.  It may also be informal and recognized in family members by their characteristics: such as the uncle who was never able to hold down a job and always seemed to be living off the kindness of other family members, or the mother who stayed in her room bedridden for several months after a difficult childbirth, etc.  Whatever their source or nature, these “co-morbid” conditions will need their own treatment with medication and/or counseling.  For any of the addiction problems, a more targeted therapeutic approach separate from treatment for ADHD may be needed.  For the non-addiction related conditions, including ADHD itself, research has shown that the most effective treatment is a combination of counseling and medication, rather than counseling or medication alone. 

Whether for adults or children, the best approach in counseling someone with ADHD includes teaching time management skills, effective problem solving, impulse control, and help in setting up external structures that aid the person in areas such as motivation, organization, executive functioning and decision making.  Good counseling will also provide support, education and coping strategies for spouses and other significant family members of the adult with ADHD. 

Associates in Professional Counseling offers treatment for children and adults dealing with ADHD.  Whether it be an adult, a child or a parent, we help clients to understand and better manage the difficulties that can come with ADHD.  We treat problems with impulse control, ruminations, organizational skills, time management and hyperactivity.  We work with parents to better manage their children.  We also identify and treat complicating conditions such as depression, anxiety or obsessive compulsive traits.  We also have experienced specialists in treating substance addiction or sexual addiction.  We are willing to work with psychiatrists in medication management and to provide recommendations for such treatment. 

For Further Reading: 

•  Driven to Distraction, by E. M. Hallowell & J. J. Ratey
• Healing ADD: The Breakthrough Program that Allows You to See and Heal the 6 Types of ADD, by Daniel G. Amen, M.D.

Associates in Professional Counseling and Coaching (APC) is a broad-based practice offering counseling for adults, adolescent/children, and couples. Our fourteen therapists and trainers are highly skilled, most with over fifteen years experience. We serve our clients in our four offices: Palos Heights, Naperville, Plainfield and Downtown Chicago.

Our team of counselors includes those with specialized training in crisis intervention, grief and loss, nursing, marriage and family issues, addictions, adolescent problems, sexual dysfunction, and corporate coaching.

click here for more information.

The Anger Management department of Associates in Professional Counseling and Coaching includes certified anger management facilitators who have studied with the world-renowned George Anderson. These programs for adults and adolescents have been approved across the country for those who may be mandated by work, school, court system or those who may simply be interested in learning to gain better control over their behaviors.

For more information about the Anger Management services offered by APC, please click here.

Services Include:

• Clinical Counseling
• Anger Management
• DUI Services
• Addiction Services
• Eating Disorders
• CEU Training
• Executive Coaching
• Marriage & Family
• Quit Smoking Therapy
• Emotional Management
• Christian-Based Services

We are now accepting new clients at all locations.

Our Staff Includes:

• Dr. Charles Polcaster, Ph.D., Clinical Director
• Kevin Huyser, M.A., L.C.P.C., C.A.M.F.
• Rod Ogilvie, M.A., L.C.P.C., C.R.A.D.C.
• Ofelia Miran, M.A., L.C.P.C., A.M.F.T.
• Kristin Mikolite, M.A., L.C.P.C., C.A.D.C..
• David M. (Mark) McIntyre, M.A., L.C.P.C.
• Sara Gibson, M.A., L.C.P.C.
• Rick Hastings, M.A., L.C.P.C., C.A.M.F.
• Jane Braun, Ph.D, Clinical Psychologist
• Whitney McDaniel, M.A., L.C.P.C.
• Teresa Hughes, M.A., C.A.R.S., D.U.I. Evaluator
• Denis Sullivan, C.A.M.F.
• Rich Beil, A.M.S.

Contact us at: www.counseling-apc.com or call for additional information at (888) 545-5707.

The Treatment Synopsis link outlines this proven program that will give your patients the best chance of success by treating the physical, mental and emotional challenges of this addiction. We offer three program options: individual therapy, group sessions and corporate, on-site classes for businesses.

Please forward and/or give a Treatment Synopsis to your patients that need professional help with this addiction.

If you need more information, please contact Kevin Huyser at 888-545-5707 Ext. 2 or khuyser@counseling-apc.com.

Sincerely,

Dr. Charles Polcaster, Ph.D., LCPC

Clinical Director/Executive Coach

Completion of this course will also allow you to apply to become a provider for Crisis Care Network (as a licensed clinician with malpractice insurance). Being a provider allows you to accept cases where you utilize the skills taught in this course and be reimbursed for your work as an independent contractor. There are no other costs, and you could recover the cost of the training in your first response!

As therapists, people come to us daily with various problems, many related to traumatic events in their lives. Certainly when trauma occurs on a larger scale, those effected often seek our assistance in emotional and psychological recovery. Completion of this course will provide the foundational principles of Crisis Intervention, along with best practice interventions on assisting individuals and groups.

For a full course description and registration form, please click here to be taken to the direct page within our site.

COURSE DATE: Friday, May 21, 2010

COURSE LOCATION:  27555 Diehl Rd, Warrenville, IL

Please feel free to contact me with any questions you may have in regard to this course or becoming a provider for Crisis Care Network.

Sincerely,

Rod Ogilvie, Director of Training

Associates in Professional Counseling and Coaching

rogilvie@counseling-apc.com

866-317-0406

www.counseling-apc.com

Sandra Nye, attorney and MSW, brings her experience and knowledge to the table in this new course offering, including NEW HIPPA Red Flag Rules which go into effect November 1, 2009!

This course will cover the latest HIPAA and IL Health, Mental Health and Substance Abuse privacy and confidentiality law, including these new red flag rules! These new rules will impact dramatically on health and human service providers. Practice policies, procedures and forms will be reviewed.

Confidentiality Update (6 CEU’s)

Date of Training: December 4, 2009

Registration at 8:30 a.m.

Training runs from 9:00 a.m. through 4:00 p.m.

Location of Training:  27555 Diehl Road, Warrenville, IL

For full course descriptions as well as information on Cost, Registration and CEU’s, please click here to be taken to the Continuing Education section of our website, or call us at (866) 317-0406.

We hope to see you soon!

Rod Ogilvie – Director of Training

Associates in Professional Counseling & Coaching

Ask yourself, am I playing to my strengths everyday at work? As a therapist we can be pulled into the rut of apathy and drain of fear our clients experience. Take a day and reconnect to what is best and good about being a therapist.  Be proactive about choosing your attitude and perspective rather than defaulting to less energizing mindsets.

Several group practices are already signed up for a day of fun, team building and CEU’s!

The Inspired Therapist would be a perfect event to have your whole group participate in or share with a colleague Give your self a jolt of inspiration by spending the day getting alignment on what matters to you most!

The Inspired Therapist

Date of Training: December 11, 2009

Registration at 8:30 a.m.

Training runs from 9:00 a.m. through 4:00 p.m.

Location of Training:  27555 Diehl Road, Warrenville, IL

For full course descriptions as well as information on Cost, Registration and CEU’s, please click here to be taken to the Continuing Education section of our website, or call us at (866) 317-0406.  CALL FOR INFORMATION ON SPECIAL DISCOUNTS FOR GROUPS REGISTERING 3 OR MORE PEOPLE!

We hope to see you soon!

Rod Ogilvie – Director of Training

Associates in Professional Counseling & Coaching

Associates in Professional Counseling and Coaching (APC) is a broad-based practice offering counseling for adults, adolescent/children, and couples. Our fourteen therapists and trainers are highly skilled, most with over fifteen years experience. We serve our clients in our four offices: Palos Heights, Naperville, Plainfield and Downtown Chicago.

For more information, click here

Associates in Professional Counseling and Coaching offers a comprehensive leadership development platform for businesses of all sizes. Along with our strategic partners, Kensington Internation and McKinley Consulting Group, our programs cover development and executive coaching for senior executives, business owners and professionals.

If you are interested in our professional coaching services, click here for a full list of our offerings.