ADHD Medication

Diagnosing ADHD

Diagnosing ADHD involves identifying a range of symptoms that have been present for at least 6 months, occur in 2 or more settings (such as school and home), and affect your or your child’s ability to function at school, work, or in social situations.

The symptoms differ for different types of ADHD, although the most common is when someone shows both inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive symptoms.

What Causes ADHD

ADHD is believed to result from a combination of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors rather than a single cause. Research shows that it often runs in families, suggesting a strong genetic component—some studies estimate that genes may account for up to 74% of ADHD risk. Brain imaging has revealed differences in structure and function, particularly in areas related to attention, impulse control, and reward processing. Environmental influences, such as prenatal exposure to alcohol or nicotine, premature birth, or early childhood trauma, can also increase risk. While myths like sugar or poor parenting have been blamed in the past, there’s no scientific evidence supporting those claims. 

Medication Management for ADHD

Medication is a proven, effective treatment for managing ADHD symptoms. Our board-certified psychiatrists specialize in evaluating each client’s unique challenges and goals. We’ll guide you through the process of finding the most effective medication and dosage, while monitoring progress and side effects at every step.

ADHD medications we commonly prescribe include:

• Stimulants (e.g., Adderall®, Ritalin®, Vyvanse®) 
• Non-stimulants (e.g., Strattera®, Intuniv®) 
• Adjunct medications to manage anxiety, mood, or sleep issues often associated with ADHD 

We treat both pediatric and adult ADHD, with an understanding of how symptoms can present differently at different life stages. Whether you’re managing school routines, college responsibilities, or workplace demands, our goal is to help you thrive with targeted support.

Compassionate, Comprehensive ADHD Care 

We recognize that ADHD impacts every part of life—from relationships and academics to self-esteem and emotional regulation. That’s why our team offers more than just prescriptions. We take time to understand your needs, provide education, and—when appropriate—coordinate with our licensed therapists and nutritionists for a more comprehensive care plan. 

We have offices in Washington, DC, Alexandria, and Ashburn, VA, and Rockville, MD, and our licensed providers offer virtual care throughout Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia. Our insurance-friendly services are designed to make mental health support accessible and stress-free.