Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based, effective treatment for children and adults with ADHD. It helps improve executive functioning challenges related to ADHD/ADD, such as time management and managing distractions, as well as emotional difficulties like depression and anxiety.

CBT works by addressing irrational thought patterns that interfere with staying on task, managing time effectively, and completing projects. A typical CBT session for ADHD focuses on identifying situations where disorganization, poor time management, or ineffective planning impact daily life. Addressing these challenges have been shown to lead to increased productivity, higher self-esteem, and overall well-being.

Children and Adolescents

With children, CBT focuses on developing behavioral strategies to improve executive functioning skills, such as getting ready in the morning, completing homework, doing chores, and staying seated in class. Cognitive interventions help children recognize and reshape negative self-talk—such as believing they are 'dumb' because they struggle in school. By helping children become aware of these internalized thoughts and teaching them how to change them, CBT helps build confidence, reduce anxiety, and foster resilience in the face of ADHD/ADD challenges.
CBT for adolescents helps them develop executive functioning skills to succeed at school and home, preparing them for independence as young adults. They learn behavioral strategies such as time management, organization, and managing distractions, along with cognitive techniques to address emotional challenges.

​A key aspect of CBT is recognizing and reshaping negative self-talk. For example, if a teenager believes, 'I'm dumb, I'm no good at math,' they may struggle with homework, studying, and test-taking confidence. By identifying these unhelpful and often distorted thoughts, CBT helps adolescents replace them with healthier, more constructive thinking patterns, improving both academic performance and overall well-being.
Adults
Individuals with ADHD often face frustrating setbacks in various aspects of life, from work and personal relationships to daily organization. Repeated mistakes and missed deadlines can take a toll, leading to low self-esteem and persistent negative thoughts. Over time, this internal dialogue can create painful emotions and cognitive distortions, making it even more challenging to navigate everyday life.
ADHD/ADD continues to affect individuals into adulthood, and research shows that the most effective treatment combines medication with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Behavioral interventions in CBT focus on time management, organization, and managing distractions, while cognitive interventions address secondary emotional challenges such as depression and anxiety.

CBT helps by identifying unhealthy thought patterns—for example, 'I can't do this' or 'I'll never learn how to manage my money'—and replacing them with more constructive ways of thinking. This shift fosters perseverance in the face of challenges and builds confidence over time.
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