Overview of ADHD Psychology
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, organisation, emotional regulation and impulse control. ADHD can present differently in children, adolescents and adults, and each individual’s experience is shaped by their strengths, environment, support systems and life stage.
ADHD is not a behavioural choice—it is a brain-based difference in how a person processes information, manages tasks and responds emotionally. For many individuals and families, ADHD can bring both challenges and unique abilities, including creativity, deep focus, strong problem-solving skills and innovative thinking.
Working with a psychologist can help individuals better understand how their ADHD shows up day to day, learn effective coping strategies, and feel more confident across school, work, relationships and home life.
A Neuro-Affirming Approach
At Drop of Life Psychology & Wellness, we use a neuro-affirming, evidence-based approach that honours each person’s lived experience. Instead of trying to “fix” ADHD, we help clients understand their unique brain wiring, reduce shame, and build skills that support daily functioning and wellbeing.
ADHD therapy may include:
- Understanding attention differences and executive functioning
- Emotional regulation tools
- Developing routines and organisation systems
- Strength-based strategies that support success in school, work and relationships
- Self-advocacy skills
- Parent support and guidance around behaviour, school and family dynamics
Therapy sessions are tailored to each client’s goals, needs and stage of life.
How ADHD Presents Across the Lifespan
ADHD can affect different areas depending on age and environment. Many clients come to therapy seeking support with challenges such as:
Children
- Emotional outbursts or quick frustration
- Difficulty following instructions
- Challenges with focus, attention or sitting still
- Social difficulties or friendship issues
- Schoolwork avoidance, slow work pace or rushing
- Struggling with transitions and routines
Teens
- Academic pressure, overwhelm and procrastination
- Increased emotional sensitivity
- Difficulty with planning, organisation and time management
- Friendship changes and social anxiety
- Identity, confidence and self-esteem concerns
Adults
- Feeling scattered, overwhelmed or “always behind”
- Difficulty managing work demands or home responsibilities
- Problems with motivation and follow-through
- Emotional dysregulation and stress
- Relationship strain due to communication or forgetfulness
- Long-standing feelings of underachievement
ADHD can also be missed or misunderstood in girls and women, who may mask symptoms, internalise difficulties or be misdiagnosed for years.
Supporting Emotional Regulation
Emotional regulation challenges are common in ADHD and can affect relationships, learning and self-esteem. Therapy may focus on:
- Recognising emotional triggers
- Building tolerance for frustration
- Strength-based strategies to manage stress
- Communication tools to reduce conflict
- Calming and grounding techniques
Our goal is to help clients understand their emotional world with clarity and self-compassion.
Executive Functioning Support
Executive functioning describes the mental skills needed for organisation, planning, memory and problem-solving. We help clients develop practical systems such as:
- Step-by-step routines
- To-do lists and visual schedules
- Study strategies
- Time awareness and planning tools
- Breaking large tasks into manageable parts
- Managing sensory overload and decision fatigue
These strategies are adapted to each client’s lifestyle, strengths and learning style.
Parent Support & Family Guidance
For children and teens, we often work closely with parents and caregivers. Support may include:
- Understanding ADHD behaviours
- Strengthening parent–child communication
- Behavioural and emotional strategies at home
- School advocacy and teacher communication
- Supporting homework and after-school routines
- Managing meltdowns, shutdowns or overwhelm
A collaborative family approach helps create consistency, confidence and calm at home.
ADHD, School, Work & Daily Life
ADHD can impact learning, employment and everyday functioning. Psychologists can help with:
School Support
- Learning adjustments
- IEP or school support plans
- Study routines and academic strategies
- Reducing school refusal and anxiety
Work & Career
- Organisation and time management
- Communication skills
- Workplace accommodations
- Reducing burnout and overwhelm
Daily Life Skills
- Managing household routines
- Building healthy habits
- Supporting independence
- Improving motivation and follow-through
Common Reasons People Seek ADHD Support
Clients often contact us for help with:
- Trouble focusing or staying on task
- Procrastination and feeling overwhelmed
- Difficulties starting or finishing tasks
- Emotional outbursts, frustration or shutdowns
- Time blindness
- Forgetfulness and disorganisation
- Relationship or communication issues
- Low confidence or chronic self-criticism
- Feeling misunderstood or unsupported
- Parenting challenges related to ADHD
How We Work With ADHD at Drop of Life
Our ADHD-informed therapists use evidence-based approaches, which may include:
- CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy)
- ACT (Acceptance & Commitment Therapy)
- Motivational Interviewing
- Mindfulness and grounding strategies
- Executive functioning coaching
- Neuro-affirming psychoeducation
- Parent and family support
Therapy centres on understanding the client’s experience, supporting emotional wellbeing, and building practical skills to improve daily life.
If You're Considering ADHD Therapy
Living with ADHD can be overwhelming, but you don’t need to navigate it alone. Support is available whether you're seeking clarity, coping tools, or help understanding your strengths and challenges.
You are welcome to reach out whether you're exploring a diagnosis, need help with emotional regulation, or want guidance around school, parenting or work.
Contact Us
Find an ADHD psychologist at Drop of Life who can support you or your child.
Call (07) 5520 7705 or contact us online to book an appointment or enquire.
