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How do you maintain CBT skills after ADHD treatment? 

Learning new tools in therapy is one thing. Keeping them up long term is another. For many people with ADHD, the ability to maintain CBT skills ADHD after formal treatment ends is key to sustaining progress. Without ongoing use, even the most helpful techniques can fade, which can lead to a return of old habits or increased difficulty managing symptoms. 

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) teaches practical coping strategies that support focus, emotional regulation, and behaviour change. But like any skill, these strategies require regular use to stick. Creating a plan to reinforce and adapt these techniques is essential for lasting improvement and strong skill retention. 

How to Maintain CBT Skills After ADHD Treatment 

Here’s how to successfully maintain CBT skills ADHD and continue growing even after therapy ends: 

Build daily routines around key techniques:  

Integrate CBT strategies into your morning or evening routines such as using planners, thought logs, or breathing exercises so they become second nature. 

Use reminders and visual cues:  

Sticky notes, checklists, or digital alerts can keep coping strategies top of mind and help you stay consistent. 

Review therapy tools regularly: 

 Set time each week to revisit worksheets, journals, or goals from therapy. This refreshes your memory and strengthens skill retention. 

Schedule booster sessions if needed:  

Occasional check-ins with your therapist can help fine tune techniques and adapt strategies as your needs evolve. 

Celebrate small wins: 

 Recognising and rewarding your progress encourages continued use of the tools that work for you. 

If you need guidance on how to maintain CBT skills ADHD, visit providers like ADHD Certify for ongoing support and personalised follow up care. 

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Author

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.