How does cognitive behavioral therapy help with hyperactivity in ADHD?

PostedAugust 22, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 5, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Victoria Rowe, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) has become a valuable approach for managing hyperactivity and impulsivity in ADHD. It helps individuals recognise and change unhelpful thoughts and behaviours. Specialised cognitive behavioural therapy ADHD programmes provide practical strategies to improve daily functioning.

Unlike medication, which targets neurochemistry, CBT focuses on teaching skills for ADHD behaviour management. By addressing the emotional and cognitive challenges that accompany hyperactivity, CBT helps individuals develop more control over their actions and reactions.

Key CBT Benefits for ADHD

Here are some of the ways CBT can help reduce hyperactivity and improve quality of life:

Improved Self-Awareness

CBT helps individuals recognise triggers and automatic thoughts that lead to impulsive or hyperactive behaviours. Understanding these patterns allows them to pause and choose more appropriate responses.

Better Emotional Regulation

People with ADHD often struggle with frustration and emotional outbursts. CBT techniques teach calming strategies and reframing skills to keep emotions in check.

Stronger Organisational Skills

By breaking tasks into manageable steps and setting realistic goals, CBT helps with planning and follow-through as a crucial part of ADHD behaviour management.

These CBT benefits make it a valuable component of a comprehensive ADHD treatment plan. Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and tailored therapy recommendations.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Hyperactivity.

Victoria Rowe, MSc

Author

Victoria Rowe is a health psychologist with a Master’s in Health Psychology and a BS in Applied Psychology. She has experience as a school psychologist, conducting behavioural assessments, developing individualized education plans (IEPs), and supporting children’s mental health. Dr. Rowe has contributed to peer-reviewed research on mental health, including studies on anxiety disorders and the impact of COVID-19 on healthcare systems. Skilled in SPSS, Minitab, and academic writing, she is committed to advancing psychological knowledge and promoting well-being through evidence-based practice.

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.