Understanding, Supporting & Empowering People with ADHDby Fallon Panetta, MS, MHC InternEach October, ADHD Awareness Month highlights the importance of education, early identification, and support for individuals with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). It is estimated that ADHD affects approximately 9.8% of U.S. children and 4.4% of adults, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). At Healing & Growth Counseling, we believe awareness goes beyond sharing information—it’s about building understanding, reducing stigma, and providing effective, evidence-based care that fosters long-term growth and well-being. What is ADHD?ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that impacts attention, impulse control, and activity regulation. It involves differences in how the brain manages executive functions—skills that include planning, organizing, prioritizing, and sustaining effort. These brain-based differences can affect performance in academic, professional, and social environments. While ADHD is often associated with distractibility or hyperactivity, the condition is more complex. Individuals with ADHD may experience challenges managing time, following multi-step directions, or maintaining consistent focus, particularly during tasks that require sustained mental effort. Despite these challenges, individuals with ADHD often demonstrate creativity, problem-solving skills, and persistence when properly supported.  What are the Symptoms of ADHD?ADHD symptoms can vary widely depending on the person, age, and environment. Common symptoms include: ● Difficulty sustaining attention or completing tasks ● Forgetfulness and frequent loss of items ● Challenges organizing time and materials ● Restlessness or difficulty remaining seated ● Impulsive behaviors such as interrupting or acting quickly without considering consequences ● Difficulty regulating frustration or emotions ● Challenges maintaining focus during non-preferred activities Some individuals experience internal symptoms such as racing thoughts or mental overactivity, which can lead to emotional fatigue. Recognizing that ADHD affects both attention and self-regulation helps guide more effective intervention. When ADHD is untreated, individuals may experience chronic stress, lower academic or occupational performance, and increased risk for anxiety or depression. However, with evidence-based treatment and consistent support, most individuals can develop effective strategies to manage symptoms and thrive personally and professionally. What are the three types of ADHD?The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR) outlines three primary presentations of ADHD: Inattentive TypeA person with this type of ADHD often experiences difficulty sustaining focus, organizing tasks, or following detailed instructions. Hyperactive-Impulsive TypeA person with this type of ADHD may have high energy levels, talk frequently, or act quickly without pausing to think. Combined TypeThis type of ADHD includes characteristics of both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive presentations. No two individuals with ADHD are the same. Symptoms and functional impact can vary depending on age, setting, stress, and environmental demands. For instance, a student might struggle with attention in class but excel in hands-on or creative tasks. ADHD symptoms typically begin in childhood, but many individuals are not diagnosed until adulthood. This delay can occur when symptoms are subtle, well-compensated for, or misattributed to other factors such as anxiety, learning differences, or environmental stressors. Increased self-awareness and growing societal understanding have led to more adults recognizing ADHD traits in themselves and seeking assessment. Can ADHD Develop Later in Life?ADHD is a lifelong condition that begins in childhood, even if it is not diagnosed until later. Adults who were not identified early may start to notice difficulties when life responsibilities increase—such as managing work tasks, college coursework, or parenting demands. Research shows that ADHD symptoms can persist across the lifespan, though they may present differently as individuals mature. For example, hyperactivity in children may appear as inner restlessness or difficulty relaxing in adults. Many adults who receive a diagnosis later in life describe it as clarifying—providing a framework to understand longstanding experiences with attention, organization, and self-regulation. This understanding often opens the door to effective treatment and self-compassion. Even if not diagnosed until adulthood, therapy and treatment can be effective and life-changing.  What does ADHD Therapy Look Like?There is no single “cure” for ADHD, but treatment is highly effective when tailored to the individual. Therapy is a central component of a multimodal treatment approach, which may also include behavioral interventions, academic or workplace accommodations, and in some cases, medication prescribed by a medical provider. At Healing & Growth Counseling, therapy for ADHD is personalized to address each client’s specific goals and challenges. Common approaches include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for ADHDCBT helps clients identify and modify thought patterns that contribute to procrastination, perfectionism, or frustration. It also builds problem-solving skills and adaptive coping strategies. Mindfulness-Based Strategies for ADHDMindfulness practices improve attention control, reduce impulsivity, and help individuals regulate emotional responses. Executive Function Coaching for ADHDPractical strategies are introduced to enhance organization, time management, and planning—such as using visual reminders, structured routines, and task breakdown methods. Parent and Family Counseling for ADHDFor children and adolescents, therapy often involves parents or caregivers to reinforce consistent routines, communication skills, and positive reinforcement systems at home. Therapy provides a supportive environment where clients can better understand their brain’s unique functioning, recognize personal strengths, and build confidence in their ability to manage daily responsibilities.  How can I support a Loved One with ADHD?Supporting someone with ADHD involves patience, structure, and clear communication. Establishing predictable routines and breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps can reduce overwhelm. Visual tools—such as planners, timers, or checklists—are especially useful for enhancing focus and organization. Encouraging open communication is key. Ask what types of reminders or supports are most helpful, and provide feedback in a calm and collaborative way. Emphasize strengths and progress rather than focusing solely on areas of difficulty. Positive reinforcement helps increase confidence and motivation. It’s equally important to maintain flexibility—what works one day may not always work the next. Consistent encouragement, balanced expectations, and understanding that ADHD is a difference in neurodevelopment, not a lack of effort, all promote long-term success. How Healing & Growth Counseling Can HelpAt Healing & Growth Counseling, we understand that ADHD influences many aspects of daily life—from focus and organization to relationships and self-esteem. Our therapists provide individualized care rooted in current research and best practices. We work collaboratively with clients and families to identify strengths, set achievable goals, and build strategies that lead to meaningful progress. Whether you’re navigating ADHD as a parent seeking support for your child, a college student learning time management skills, or an adult balancing work and family demands, therapy can help you better understand your challenges and use your strengths to overcome them. ADHD Awareness Month serves as an important reminder that education and early intervention matter. By increasing understanding and access to care, we can help individuals with ADHD lead fulfilling, productive, and balanced lives. About the AuthorFallon Panetta, MS, MHC Intern, is a full-time school counselor with 19 years of experience supporting children with ADHD and other social-emotional needs. She helps students strengthen focus, organization, and emotional regulation through strategies like mindfulness, movement breaks, visual schedules, and positive self-talk. Fallon enjoys teaching students how to pause before reacting, set small goals, and recognize their strengths. She is currently pursuing her advanced certificate in mental health counseling to continue helping children, teens, and families thrive both in and out of the classroom. Interested in learning more about Fallon and her work? Read her bio here. Interested in reading more about ADHD and neurodivergence? Check out our Neurodivergence service page here. Interested in scheduling an appointment with one of our clinicians? Call us at (516) 406-8991 or fill out our Contact Form here.
What is Complex Trauma and C-PTSD?by Talia Bina, MSEd, MPhil, MHC-LPComplex Trauma, sometimes called Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD), develops from repeated or prolonged exposure to traumatic experiences, often beginning in childhood. Contrarily to PTSD, which is typically linked to a single traumatic event, Complex Trauma is usually the result of ongoing trauma such as abuse, neglect, domestic violence, or growing up in an unstable or unsafe environment. Over time, this repeated exposure can deeply affect a person’s sense of self, relationships, and ability to feel safe in the world. People with C-PTSD may struggle with emotional regulation, self-esteem, trust, and may experience intense feelings of shame, guilt, or worthlessness. The interesting thing about C-PTSD is that it is not actually recognized in the DSM-5 (the manual most clinicians use in the U.S. to diagnose individuals). However, it has been recognized by the World Health Organization since 2018 in the ICD-11 (the international classification of diseases).  What are the signs and symptoms of C-PTSD?The following list describes some of the signs and symptoms of C-PTSD. You may notice that some of the symptoms overlap with other medical and mental health conditions. Trauma and Memory
Emotional and Cognitive
Interpersonal
Physical
Behavioral
Hyperarousal
These patterns don’t just shape emotions—they ripple into the body, relationships, and daily life. Many people with Complex Trauma continue to navigate the world in survival mode, long after the original trauma has ended. Since C-PTSD affects multiple areas of functioning—emotional regulation, cognition, relationships, and behavior—people often experience symptoms that overlap with other mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD-like symptoms, dissociation, substance use, and/or eating disorders. They may not meet the full criteria for these individual diagnoses but still exhibit aspects of them as a direct result of trauma. In the U.S., clinicians may note co-occurring diagnoses because C-PTSD itself is not officially recognized in the DSM-5. Recognizing these overlapping patterns helps capture the full impact of trauma and guide effective treatment. For example, an individual with Complex Trauma might experience OCD-like symptoms such as intrusive thoughts or rumination, ADHD-like symptoms like distractibility, difficulty focusing, or impulsivity, eating-related issues such as emotional eating, and mood or anxiety symptoms including persistent worry, panic, low mood, or irritability. In some cases, these experiences may not meet the full criteria for separate diagnoses, reflecting trauma-related patterns rather than distinct disorders. In other cases, an individual may meet the full criteria for one or more co-occurring conditions, meaning that the trauma has contributed to clinically significant impairments that warrant a formal diagnosis and targeted treatment.  What are the most common co-occurring disorders with C-PTSD?Mood DisordersDepression and persistent low mood are very common, as trauma erodes self-worth and hope. Emotional ups and downs may resemble bipolar traits, though often tied more to trauma reactivity than a mood disorder itself. Anxiety and OCDChronic worry, panic attacks, or obsessive thinking can grow out of trauma. Some survivors develop compulsive behaviors (like checking or rituals) as attempts to create a sense of safety or control. ADHD-Like SymptomsTrauma can affect attention, memory, and impulse control, leading to distractibility or difficulties with focus that may look like ADHD. Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs)Hair pulling, skin picking, or nail biting may develop as tension-release or self-soothing strategies. Dissociative SymptomsMany people with C-PTSD experience spacing out, feeling detached from their body, or memory gaps. In severe cases, this can overlap with dissociative disorders. Substance Use DisordersAlcohol or drugs may be used to numb pain, reduce hyperarousal, or escape intrusive memories Eating DisordersRestrictive eating, bingeing, or purging can emerge from shame, trauma-related body image issues, or attempts to regain a sense of control over the body. Moving Forward: Healing from Complex TraumaHealing from Complex Trauma is possible, though it often takes time and support. Effective treatment usually involves a combination of approaches that address emotional regulation, trauma processing, and rebuilding trust and safety: Therapy for C-PTSDTreatment for Complex Trauma often involves a combination of approaches. Behavioral therapies focus on managing symptoms, building coping skills, and regulating emotions. Insight-oriented or psychodynamic therapies explore childhood experiences, relational patterns, and the underlying causes of trauma. Body-based therapies help process trauma stored in physical sensations, while psychoeducation provides understanding of how trauma affects the mind and body. Medication for C-PTSDMay be used to manage symptoms such as depression, anxiety, or sleep difficulties, under the guidance of a psychiatrist. Support Groups for C-PTSDPeer support can reduce isolation and provide validation for experiences. You can search for local C-PTSD If you or someone you know is living with trauma, reaching out to a licensed mental health professional can be an important first step toward recovery and regaining a sense of safety and self.  What are some resources to help with C-PTSD?Books that Address C-PTSD
Organizations & Websites Focused on C-PTSD
About the AuthorTalia Bina, MSEd, MPhil, MHC-LP, is a clinician at Healing & Growth Counseling, providing in-person counseling services in Massapequa Park. Working with clients with complex trauma is a specialty focus area in her practice. Her understanding of the complexities that occur for people who have struggled with complex trauma histories helps her to provide individualized treatment to those that she works with. She takes the opportunity to link clients with resources, such as those listed above, to help support the work being done in therapy. Interested in learning more about Talia? See her Bio Page here.
Interested in scheduling an appointment with Talia? Complete our Contact Form here. |
PurposeBlog posts are meant to bring mental health awareness and education to anyone who visits our site. Please know that although reading blogs may be extremely helpful, they may not substitute the work that can be done in therapy. Archives
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Healing & Growth Counseling
4770 Sunrise Highway, Suite 102
Massapequa Park, NY 11762
(516) 406-8991
4770 Sunrise Highway, Suite 102
Massapequa Park, NY 11762
(516) 406-8991
- Home
- Services
-
Our Team
- Sarah Mohan, MS, CRC, MHC-LP, CVE, WIP-C
- Candyce Young, MS, MHC-LP
- Talia Bina, MSEd, MPhil, MHC-LP
- Fallon Panetta, MS, MHC Intern
- Brenna Tighe, LMHC, CRC
- Joann Romano, MSEd, LMHC
- Jaime Harkins, MSEd, LMHC, CRC
- Marisa Higgins, MSEd, CRC, NCC, MHC-LP
- Tiffany Leonard, MA, LMHC
- Meg Ockovic, MA, LMHC
- Rachel Lubell, LCSW-R, CASAC
- Heather DeGuire, MA, LMHC
- Cindy Zabinski, LMHC-D, CRC, ACS
- Groups
- Fees & Insurance
- Contact
- Online Therapy in NY
- Blog