What types of professionals specialise in treating RSD in ADHD? 

Many people with ADHD experience intense emotional reactions to perceived criticism or rejection, a pattern known as Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD). While RSD is not a formal diagnosis, the NHS and the Royal College of Psychiatrists recognise it as part of ADHD’s emotional regulation profile. Managing it effectively often involves input from several different professionals, each focusing on a specific aspect of care. 

ADHD psychiatrists and prescribing clinicians 

According to NICE guidance (NG87), diagnosis and treatment of ADHD should be carried out by a specialist psychiatrist, paediatrician or other qualified prescriber with expertise in neurodevelopmental disorders. These clinicians can assess how emotional dysregulation and rejection sensitivity affect daily life, prescribe or adjust medication and monitor its impact on mood and focus. Medication may reduce emotional intensity indirectly by improving attention control and impulse regulation. 

Psychologists and psychotherapists 

Clinical and counselling psychologists often provide therapy for the emotional side of ADHD, including RSD. Treatments such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) help individuals reframe rejection-related thoughts and build resilience. Evidence from Frontiers in Psychiatry shows that structured emotion-regulation therapy can significantly reduce distress and improve coping. 

ADHD-informed coaches and counsellors 

ADHD coaches and neurodiversity-trained counsellors support practical and emotional self-management. They help clients identify triggers for rejection sensitivity, develop communication skills and create coping strategies for stressful situations. While coaching is not a substitute for therapy, NICE and NHS guidance recognise that structured behavioural support can complement clinical care by reinforcing self-awareness and daily regulation habits. 

Educational and occupational specialists 

For students and employees with ADHD, educational psychologists and occupational therapists can recommend adjustments that reduce rejection-based stress. This might include supportive feedback methods, flexible deadlines or mentoring programmes that build confidence in learning or workplace environments. 

Private services such as ADHD Certify offer structured ADHD assessments and medication reviews with qualified prescribers. These can form part of a broader care plan involving therapy and coaching for emotional regulation. 

The takeaway 

Treating RSD in ADHD is most effective when handled by a multidisciplinary team. Psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists and ADHD-informed coaches each play a role in helping individuals understand and manage emotional sensitivity. With the right support, rejection no longer defines self-worth but becomes an opportunity for growth and resilience.