ADHD
Understanding ADHD Across the Lifespan
Attention‑Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental difference that begins in childhood, but for many people it is not identified until adolescence or adulthood. ADHD does not disappear with age—it changes shape. As responsibilities increase, unrecognized ADHD often becomes more visible through overwhelm, emotional exhaustion, and chronic self‑doubt.
At Lodestone Psychology, we support children, teens, and adults with ADHD, with particular expertise in late‑diagnosed ADHD. Whether ADHD was identified early or named later in life, therapy focuses on understanding how your brain works and building support that fits your real world.
ADHD in Childhood
In children, ADHD may show up as inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, emotional outbursts, or difficulty with routines and school demands. Some children struggle quietly—appearing compliant while internally overwhelmed—while others are more visibly active or dysregulated.
Therapy for children with ADHD often supports:
Emotional regulation and frustration tolerance
Attention, task initiation, and follow‑through
Social skills and peer relationships
School stress and self‑esteem
Parent support and coaching
Our work emphasizes strengths‑based, developmentally appropriate strategies that support both the child and their caregivers.
ADHD in Adolescence
During adolescence, ADHD can intersect with identity development, academic pressure, social comparison, and increasing independence. Teens with ADHD may experience heightened emotional intensity, motivation challenges, or feelings of being misunderstood.
Therapy at this stage often focuses on:
Executive functioning and organization
Emotional regulation and impulse control
Self‑confidence and identity development
School stress and performance anxiety
Communication with parents and teachers
ADHD in Adulthood
Adult ADHD often looks different than childhood stereotypes. Many adults are highly capable, intelligent, and outwardly successful—yet feel internally overwhelmed, scattered, or exhausted from years of compensating.
Adults with ADHD may experience:
Chronic disorganization or procrastination
Emotional reactivity or sensitivity
Burnout and fatigue
Difficulty with time management
Relationship strain
Persistent feelings of underachievement
Therapy focuses on practical strategies alongside emotional support and nervous system regulation.
Late‑Diagnosed ADHD in Adults
Receiving an ADHD diagnosis later in life can be life‑changing. Many people feel relief in finally understanding themselves, alongside grief for years spent struggling without support. A late diagnosis often reframes childhood experiences, academic challenges, relationship patterns, and career choices.
Therapy for late‑diagnosed ADHD often includes:
Processing identity shifts and grief
Reducing internalized shame and self‑criticism
Understanding burnout and nervous system overload
Rebuilding self‑trust
Developing sustainable systems for daily life
We recognize that late‑diagnosed adults often carry years of masked effort and exhaustion. Therapy is a place to slow down, make sense of the past, and build a future that works with—not against—your brain.
Our Neuro‑Affirming Approach
At Lodestone Psychology, ADHD therapy is neuro‑affirming, not corrective. We do not aim to force neurotypical standards or eliminate core traits. Instead, we help clients understand their patterns, strengths, and challenges.
Depending on age and needs, therapy may include:
Executive functioning supports
Emotional regulation skills
Nervous system regulation
Boundary setting and energy management
Relationship communication
Self‑compassion and identity integration
We work with children, teens, and adults across Calgary and Alberta, offering both in‑person and virtual therapy. Many clients seek ADHD therapy after years of feeling unseen or misunderstood.
Whether ADHD has been part of your story since childhood or named later in life, support can make a meaningful difference. You’re welcome to reach out to explore ADHD therapy at Lodestone Psychology.
