How can therapy help with ADHD? 

While medication often plays a key role in managing ADHD, therapy can be just as important in helping people understand and navigate everyday challenges. According to NICE guidance (NG87), adults with ADHD should be offered evidence-based psychological interventions such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), organisational skills training, and psychoeducation, ideally alongside medication as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. 

Understanding how therapy supports ADHD 

Therapy helps people with ADHD in different ways depending on age, life stage, and individual needs. The NHS explains that talking therapies like CBT and mindfulness can ease low mood and anxiety, while practical coaching or psychoeducation programmes teach coping strategies and problem-solving skills for daily life. These approaches can make it easier to manage time, reduce overwhelm, and improve focus. 

For adults, structured CBT is one of the most widely used and researched approaches. A 2024 systematic review found that ADHD-adapted CBT improves core symptoms, organisation, and emotional control when combined with medication, though effects may vary over time. Many adults describe therapy as helping them understand unhelpful thought patterns, set realistic goals, and build supportive routines for work and home life. 

Therapy options for children and families 

For children and young people, therapy usually involves the whole family. The World Health Organization’s 2023 mhGAP update recommends parent training, behavioural programmes, and school-based support as first-line psychosocial interventions. Evidence from a 2023 Psychiatry Research review found these programmes improve family relationships and classroom behaviour, complementing any prescribed medication. 

Combining therapy with other supports 

Most experts agree that therapy works best as part of a multimodal plan that combines psychological support, medication (if prescribed), lifestyle strategies, and practical adjustments at work or school. UK services such as the National Adult ADHD and Autism Psychology Service (NAAAPS) provide structured CBT and psychoeducation, while private services like ADHD Certify offer assessment and ongoing treatment reviews under similar evidence-based standards. For non-medication approaches, Theara Change develops therapy and coaching programmes focused on emotional regulation and behavioural support in line with NICE principles. 

Takeaway 

Therapy does not replace medication for ADHD, but it often gives people the tools and confidence to make those treatments, and life in general, work better. Whether it is CBT for adults, parent training for families, or practical coaching for everyday structure, evidence consistently shows that psychological support can help people with ADHD manage symptoms, build resilience, and thrive. 

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.