Empowering Neurodiversity
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, known as ADHD, causes differences in how the brain works and develops. Despite its name, attention is only part of what can be affected. Energy, memory, and impulse control are also regulated differently with ADHD. It shapes how someone experiences the world, but also brings creative thinking and strong intuition.
OneYou separates the challenges created by ADHD from the person experiencing them. We understand how daily responsibilities can feel harder to navigate, but we firmly believe these difficulties are not a reflection of intelligence or capability. Our counselors help keep your momentum going, build realistic routines, and support you in following through on what matters most.
ADHD TRAITS, STRENGTHS, CHALLENGES
ADHD appears in a wide variety of people and appears in different ways depending on personality, environment, and life circumstances. Thoughts may race too quickly to focus, or attention can be completely absorbed in something engaging. Tasks that require sustained attention or organization can feel disproportionately exhausting, and deadlines, routines, or small details can slip through even the most conscientious efforts.
People with ADHD may also notice emotional intensity, from sudden bursts of frustration to moments of excitement or inspiration that arrive without warning. Physical restlessness, fidgeting, or a need for movement is common, but often varies depending on the environment or activity.
These challenges are also paired with positive traits that often emerge in situations where traditional focus is less important. People with ADHD are creative, curious, innovative, and ambitious. They excel in dynamic environments, approach problems from unique angles, and deeply engage with projects they’re passionate about.
ADHD + NEURODIVERSITY
ADHD in neurodivergent individuals often goes beyond distractibility or hyperactivity. It may show up as trouble starting tasks, intense hyperfocus, emotional sensitivity, time blindness, or burnout from trying to meet expectations that don’t fit how their brain works. Many people with ADHD have internalized shame from years of masking or being mislabeled as unmotivated.
DIAGNOSING + TREATMENT
Identifying ADHD begins with understanding each person’s unique patterns of attention, behavior, and energy over time. Input from family, teachers, or colleagues can be beneficial to the process as well. OneYou focuses on how the individual experiences daily tasks feel and what challenges arise in order to diagnosis and fully grasp and help manage the ADHD in our clients.
Our counselors treat ADHD with a focus on strengthening one’s Executive Functioning, or the brain’s ‘management system’ that plans, organizes, and gets things done. We help develop sustainable strategies and routines that fit our client’s natural energy to reduce distractions and redirect intense focus.
OneYou uses a blend of strength-based mindfulness-based approaches to tackle challenges caused by ADHD, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Executive Functioning Support, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS).
We want to help you reach your full potential, on your own terms. Contact us at OneYou to get back on track. We offer telehealth statewide in Oregon or in-person sessions at our office in Portland, Oregon.