What psychotherapy works for ADHD with anxiety, depression or bipolar? 

Many people with ADHD also live with anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder, and information from RCPsych shows that these combinations often create challenges with attention, emotional regulation and daily functioning. Psychotherapy can help address these overlapping difficulties, and research consistently finds that therapy combined with medication provides better outcomes than medication alone. 

Which therapies work best for comorbid ADHD? 

Guidance from NICE highlights Cognitive Behavioural Therapy as the psychological approach with the strongest evidence for adults who have ADHD alongside depression or anxiety. CBT teaches practical skills for planning, problem solving and managing negative thinking, and has been shown to improve functioning when mood symptoms make attention and organisation harder. Research available through the National Library of Medicine demonstrates that CBT can reduce anxiety, lift mood and support people in staying consistent with their treatment. 

Therapies that support emotional regulation and stress 

Studies summarised in PMC suggest that DBT informed skills training can help adults who experience emotional instability, impulsive behaviour or strong reactions to stress. This approach focuses on mindfulness, distress tolerance and emotional regulation, and may be particularly helpful when ADHD is combined with mood swings or anxiety. Some people also benefit from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, which is described on NHS resources as a therapy that supports psychological flexibility and reduces the impact of difficult thoughts. 

How therapy and medication work together 

Evidence from NHS England shows that combining therapy with medication improves long term outcomes for people with both ADHD and mood symptoms. Therapy supports coping skills, relapse prevention and emotional balance, while medication helps stabilise core ADHD traits and underlying mood conditions. This combined approach is supported by guidance for bipolar disorder in NICE CG185, which recommends structured psychological support alongside pharmacological treatment when conditions co exist. 

Key takeaway 

CBT has the strongest evidence for people with ADHD and coexisting anxiety or depression, while DBT informed skills and ACT offer additional support for emotional and behavioural challenges. Therapy works best when combined with medication and tailored to the individual’s needs. 

Harriet Winslow, BSc

Author

Harriet Winslow is a clinical psychologist with a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience in behaviour therapy and developmental disorders. She has worked with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, and behavioural challenges, providing individual and group therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT. Dr. Winslow has developed and implemented personalised treatment plans, conducted formal and informal assessments, and delivered crisis intervention for clients in need of urgent mental health care. Her expertise spans assessment, treatment planning, and behavioural intervention for both neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.

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.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

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 reviewer's privacy.