ADHD & Executive Functioning Support

Understanding ADHD: More Than Just “Not Paying Attention”

ADHD is not a deficit of attention, but rather a challenge with regulating it. It is fundamentally a condition of executive dysfunction. Executive functions are the high-level mental skills that act as the ‘CEO of the brain,’ including planning, time management, working memory, and emotional control (National Institute of Mental Health, NIMH).

We help clients understand the three primary presentations of ADHD:

Primarily Inattentive Presentation

Often overlooked, especially in girls and women, this presentation includes challenges with sustaining attention, following detailed instructions, and organizing tasks. Individuals may appear forgetful, easily distracted, or as if they are “daydreaming,” when in fact their brain is working hard to manage competing stimuli (Williams, T., et.al. 2025).

Primarily Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation

This is the more classic stereotype of ADHD, characterized by excessive restlessness, an inability to sit still, interrupting others, and acting impulsively without thinking through consequences. While more obvious externally, it stems from the same core challenge of regulating impulses (Isaac, V., et.al. 2024).

Combined Presentation

This is the most common presentation, where an individual exhibits significant symptoms of both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, CHADD)

The Psychologist’s Advantage in ADHD Diagnosis

An accurate ADHD diagnosis is the critical first step toward effective support. As doctoral-level psychologists, we go far beyond simple checklists or online screeners. Our comprehensive evaluation process is a deep dive into an individual’s cognitive and emotional world —a best practice outlined by the American Psychological Association, APA. This allows us to expertly differentiate ADHD from other conditions with similar symptoms, such as anxiety, trauma, or learning disorders. This diagnostic precision ensures you or your child receives a treatment plan that is truly tailored to your unique brain wiring.

Getting Started: Assessment First

Before effective treatment can begin, an accurate diagnosis is essential. As doctoral-level psychologists, we go far beyond simple checklists or online screeners. Our comprehensive psychological testing for ADHD provides the diagnostic clarity you need to understand your unique brain wiring and develop an effective treatment plan.

Our gold-standard evaluation process includes clinical interviews, standardized rating scales, and objective cognitive testing. This diagnostic precision ensures you receive a treatment plan that addresses the root cause, not just surface-level symptoms—the foundation for all effective ADHD support.

Ready to get answers? Schedule your ADHD assessment or learn more about our adult ADHD evaluation process.

For Adults: Individual Therapy & Skill Building

Many adults discover their ADHD later in life, often after years of wondering why tasks that seem easy for others feel insurmountable. Our individual therapy for ADHD uses evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you:

• Develop practical systems for time management and organization
• Build emotional regulation skills
• Address co-occurring anxiety or depression
• Create sustainable routines that work with your brain

We also offer telehealth ADHD support across 40 states, making expert care accessible from your home.

For Children & Teens: Specialized Support

ADHD affects each developmental stage differently. Our child and adolescent therapy addresses the unique challenges young people face:

For Children (Ages 6-12):

• Play-based interventions to build executive functioning
• Social skills development
• Academic accommodation planning
• Behavioral strategies for home and school

For Teens (Ages 13-18):

• Independence and self-advocacy skills
• Academic planning and college preparation
• Identity development and self-esteem building
• Transition planning for adulthood

For Families: Parent Coaching & Family Support

When a child has ADHD, it impacts the entire family system. Our parent coaching services equip you with evidence-based strategies to:

• Support your child’s executive functioning development
• Manage challenging behaviors effectively
• Advocate for your child’s needs at school
• Create structured, ADHD-friendly home environments

Many families also benefit from family therapy to improve communication patterns, establish effective routines, and strengthen family relationships around ADHD-related challenges.

Your Path Forward

Every ADHD journey is unique, but the first step is always the same: understanding your specific presentation through comprehensive evaluation. Once you have diagnostic clarity, we’ll work with you to determine the most appropriate support services for your individual needs.

Ready to begin? Contact our team at (941) 702-2457 or schedule your consultation online.

Frequently Asked Questions about ADHD

What are the signs and symptoms of ADHD in children and adults?

ADHD symptoms can include difficulty sustaining attention, impulsivity, forgetfulness, and challenges with organization and time management. In children, symptoms may show up as trouble following instructions or frequent daydreaming. Adults may notice issues with focus at work or in relationships. For a comprehensive overview, visit our ADHD assessment page.

What’s the difference between ADD and ADHD?

ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) is an outdated term that referred to individuals with attention difficulties but without hyperactivity. Today, the correct term is ADHD, which includes inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, and combined presentations.

How is ADHD diagnosed at Davenport Psychology?

We use a gold-standard approach that includes psychoeducational testing for ADHD, clinical interviews, and evidence-based rating scales. This process helps us understand your unique strengths and challenges and ensures an accurate diagnosis.

What’s the difference between a school evaluation and a clinical diagnosis?

A school evaluation is typically done to determine eligibility for academic accommodations (like an IEP or 504 Plan). A comprehensive clinical evaluation from a psychologist provides a formal medical diagnosis, explores co-occurring conditions, and offers a much more detailed and personalized roadmap for treatment beyond the classroom.

What resources are available for parents of children with ADHD?

We offer comprehensive parent support to help you understand your child’s needs, implement effective strategies at home, and advocate for appropriate accommodations in educational settings.

Can you “outgrow” ADHD?

While the outward symptoms of hyperactivity may lessen with age, ADHD is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition. The underlying challenges with executive functioning persist into adulthood. The good news is that with the right skills and strategies, individuals with ADHD can be incredibly successful.

What treatment options are available for ADHD?

Treatment begins with comprehensive assessment to understand your specific needs. Based on your evaluation results, we offer evidence-based therapy approaches tailored to your age and presentation. Each treatment plan is individualized following proper diagnostic clarification.

Do you offer therapy for adults with ADHD?

Yes, we provide CBT for ADHD and other specialized therapies for adults with ADHD, focusing on practical skill development, emotional regulation, and addressing the unique challenges adults face in work and relationships.

Are telehealth ADHD services available in Florida?

Yes, we offer telehealth ADHD support for clients across 40 states, including Florida. This allows you to access expert care from the comfort of your home.

How do I schedule an ADHD assessment?

You can schedule an ADHD assessment online or by calling our office.

What is your practice’s stance on medication for ADHD?

Medication can be a very effective treatment for many individuals with ADHD, often in combination with therapy and skills-coaching. As psychologists, we do not prescribe medication, but we do conduct the necessary assessments to inform that decision. We work collaboratively with your physician or psychiatrist to ensure an integrated approach to care.