What Is an ADHD Therapist?
An ADHD therapist is a qualified mental health professional—such as a counsellor, psychologist, or psychotherapist—who specialises in working with individuals diagnosed with or experiencing symptoms of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Their role is to support emotional wellbeing, build coping strategies, and help manage the daily challenges that come with ADHD.
Unlike psychiatrists who typically handle medication, ADHD therapists focus on the behavioural, emotional, and cognitive aspects of ADHD.
Why See an ADHD Therapist?
ADHD impacts more than attention—it affects emotional regulation, self-esteem, motivation, and relationships. An ADHD therapist can help with:
- Anxiety and overthinking
- Burnout or chronic stress
- Emotional dysregulation and mood swings
- Time blindness and executive dysfunction
- Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD)
- Procrastination and perfectionism
What Types of Therapy Help ADHD?
1. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
- Helps reframe negative thought patterns and build practical coping strategies
- Shown to reduce ADHD symptoms and improve emotional resilience
2. Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
- Focuses on emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and mindfulness
- Helpful for those with intense emotional responses or co-occurring mood disorders
3. Coaching-Based Therapy
- Combines therapy with life-coaching to target executive function and goal-setting
4. Somatic Therapy
- Explores how ADHD symptoms and trauma are stored in the body
- Helps regulate nervous system overwhelm
How to Choose the Right ADHD Therapist in the UK
✅ Check Credentials
- Look for accreditation with BACP, UKCP, or HCPC
- Experience with ADHD clients or additional training in neurodiversity
✅ Ask the Right Questions:
- Do they use ADHD-friendly techniques?
- Are they familiar with executive dysfunction and RSD?
- Can they work alongside medication or coaching?
✅ Match Matters:
- Choose someone you feel safe with
- Neurodivergent therapists or ADHD-informed professionals often offer a deeper level of understanding
✅ Look for Flexible Formats:
- Many offer online sessions or hybrid support, ideal for ADHDers managing energy and scheduling challenges
Signs You May Benefit from an ADHD Therapist
- You feel emotionally overwhelmed or misunderstood
- Past trauma or stress is affecting your daily life
- You’ve tried ADHD coaching but need deeper therapeutic support
- You want to improve relationships, self-worth, or mental health
Therapy vs Coaching for ADHD: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | ADHD Therapy | ADHD Coaching |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Emotional wellbeing, past experiences | Goal-setting, structure, routines |
| Credentials | Licensed mental health professionals | ADHD-trained coaches |
| Best for | Anxiety, trauma, mood, self-esteem | Productivity, planning, confidence |
Many people benefit from both working in tandem.
Where to Find an ADHD Therapist in the UK
- Counselling Directory (UK) – Filter by ADHD or neurodivergent therapists
- Psychology Today UK – Browse ADHD-informed therapists
- Mind UK – Mental health charity with local directories
- Private Clinics – Some ADHD Centres also offer therapy alongside assessments and coaching
Final Thoughts: Why ADHD Therapy Matters
An ADHD therapist doesn’t just help you manage symptoms—they help you understand your identity, unlearn shame, and rebuild confidence. Therapy can help transform ADHD from something that holds you back into something you can manage, work with, and even embrace.
If you’re feeling emotionally stuck, burned out, or misunderstood, an ADHD therapist can help you take the next step forward—with tools, empathy, and a deeper understanding of your neurodivergent brain.
For ADHD therapy resources and UK-based coaching options, subscribe to our newsletter and visit adhdtribe.co.uk.
Meta Title:
ADHD Therapist UK: How to Find One and What to Expect from Therapy
Meta Description:
Looking for an ADHD therapist? Discover how ADHD therapy works, which types are best, and how to choose the right therapist for your needs in the UK.
Tags:
ADHD therapist UK, ADHD counselling, ADHD therapy UK, CBT for ADHD, ADHD mental health, ADHD support UK, ADHD coaching vs therapy, neurodivergent therapy, emotional regulation ADHD, ADHD therapy online
