Adult ADHD

When focus, time and follow-through have always been harder for you than for everyone else

Part of The ShieldMee Guide: ADHD & Adult Autism →

“I’m smart. Why can’t I just get it done?”

“I start ten things and finish none.”

“I’m always late, and I hate it.”

“My partner says I don’t listen. I swear I’m trying.”

If you’ve said these things to yourself for years, you may have wondered if it’s ADHD.

Or you’ve wondered if you’re just lazy.

You’re probably not lazy.

What ADHD is

ADHD stands for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.

It’s a difference in how the brain handles attention, activity and self-control.

It starts in childhood. But many adults were never diagnosed. That’s especially true for women, people who did well in school, and people who learned to cover it up.

It has nothing to do with how smart you are.

It’s not a lack of caring, either. People with ADHD often care a lot. They just can’t always get their brain to do what they’re asking it to do.

What it can look like in adults

• Losing track of time, a lot
• Starting strong, then running out of steam
• Putting things off until the last minute, then working in a panic
• Losing keys, phones and wallets
• Zoning out in conversations, then feeling embarrassed
• Interrupting, then feeling bad about it
• Locking in for hours on something interesting, but not being able to start something boring
• Feeling restless inside, even if you look calm

Everyone has some of these sometimes. With ADHD, they’ve been there since childhood, and they cause real problems at work, at home or in relationships.

Why it can be hard to tell

Anxiety, depression, trauma, poor sleep and burnout can all wreck your focus.

So can some medical problems, like thyroid issues or sleep apnea. If your focus changed suddenly, see your doctor.

That’s why formal testing matters. An online quiz can’t tell you.

I don’t do ADHD or autism testing. If you haven’t been tested, I’ll refer you to someone who does.

Once you have a diagnosis, I can treat it.

What helps

Treatment for adult ADHD usually has a few parts.

Practical skills. Building systems that fit your brain, not someone else’s. Breaking tasks into small steps. Using reminders, timers and routines that actually stick.

Working on the shame. Most adults with ADHD carry years of “Why can’t you just…?” That weight makes everything harder.

Medication. For many adults, ADHD medication helps a lot. I don’t prescribe, but I work with your doctor or psychiatrist if you go that route.

There’s no one right mix. We find yours.

ADHD and your relationship

ADHD often shows up most at home.

One partner forgets, runs late or zones out. The other starts reminding, checking and picking up the slack.

Over time, it can start to feel like a parent and a child instead of two partners.

The partner with ADHD feels nagged. The other partner feels alone and worn out.

Both are real. Neither one is the bad guy.

In couples sessions, I listen for the sentences you keep repeating. “You never…” “I always have to…” They show where the load got uneven.

Then we rebuild it on purpose, so it works for both of your brains.

If arguments ever turn into threats, pushing or one partner controlling the other, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233. It’s free and open 24/7.

How I work

I look at the whole picture you live in: work, relationship, family and daily habits.

I also pay close attention to how you talk about yourself. People with ADHD often describe themselves in harsh ways they would never use for anyone else.

We start with what’s getting in your way the most right now.

Who this work is for

• Adults in Florida who think they might have ADHD (I’ll refer you for testing)
• Adults already diagnosed who want help beyond medication
• Couples where ADHD is straining the relationship
• Adults with ADHD plus anxiety, depression or burnout
• Spanish-speaking or bilingual adults

You don’t need a diagnosis to start therapy. We can work on stress, anxiety or relationships right away. If you haven’t been tested, I’ll refer you for testing, and once you have a diagnosis, I can treat ADHD directly.

Who this isn’t for

I work with adults. If you are under 18, this page is not describing services for you.

If you are in immediate danger or thinking about suicide, call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

I don’t prescribe medication. If you need it, I’ll work alongside your doctor or psychiatrist.

Sessions must take place while you are physically located in Florida.

Frequently asked questions

Do you test for ADHD?

No. I don’t do ADHD or autism testing. If you haven’t been tested, I’ll refer you to someone who does. Once you have a diagnosis, I can treat it.

Do you prescribe ADHD medication?

No. Counselors don’t prescribe. If medication makes sense, I’ll coordinate with your doctor or psychiatrist.

Can my partner come too?

Yes. I see individuals, couples and families. Whether couples sessions are covered depends on your insurance plan. You’ll see your estimated cost on my Headway page before you book.

Do you offer therapy in Spanish?

Yes. Sessions can be in Spanish, English, or both.

How much does therapy cost?

It depends on your insurance plan. Most clients pay a copay or coinsurance. You’ll see your estimated cost on my Headway page before you book.

Do you take insurance?

Yes. I’m in-network with Aetna, Cigna, Florida Blue, UnitedHealthcare, Oscar, and other plans through Headway. Check your coverage and book on my Headway page.

When can I start?

Appointments are generally available the next day or within the same week, every day except Saturday.

Related reading: Procrastination Isn’t Laziness · High-Functioning Anxiety · Executive Burnout