Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) with Amanda Spray, PhD, ABPP

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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) offers an effective psychosocial intervention for adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Amanda Spray, a Clinical Associate Professor at NYU, highlights the growing prevalence of adult ADHD, with 6% of adults affected, and underscores the importance of treatments beyond medication.<br /><br />Many adults with ADHD continue to exhibit symptoms despite medication, making CBT a valuable adjunctive therapy. Dr. Spray emphasizes that CBT not only alleviates core symptoms but also improves executive dysfunction, depression, and anxiety associated with ADHD. Meta-analyses suggest that CBT is superior to wait-list controls and active interventions, particularly when combined with medication, although improvements in organizational skills and self-esteem can further enhance treatment outcomes.<br /><br />Group-based CBT has proven beneficial in providing social support, fostering acceptance, and enhancing understanding among adults with ADHD. A study by Solanto et al. illustrates the effectiveness of CBT in decreasing executive dysfunction and improving depression over control groups.<br /><br />Key CBT interventions include psychoeducation about ADHD and cognitive restructuring to address irrational cognitions contributing to procrastination and avoidance behaviors. Behavioral strategies, including time management, planner use, and sleep habit optimization, help mitigate ADHD’s impact on daily functioning. Techniques like breaking tasks into manageable steps and using rewards for task completion also aid individuals in meeting personal and professional goals.<br /><br />Overall, CBT offers crucial tools for managing ADHD in adults, helping patients overcome cognitive and behavioral obstacles that impede progress, thereby enabling a more structured and fulfilled life.

Keywords

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

adult ADHD

Amanda Spray

executive dysfunction

psychoeducation

cognitive restructuring

behavioral strategies

meta-analyses

group-based CBT

treatment outcomes

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