ADHD is a neurological difference that affects attention, focus, and executive function - and it often goes unrecognized well into adulthood, especially in women and in people from communities where it's rarely discussed.
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects how the brain regulates attention, impulse control, and executive function. It's not about intelligence or motivation - it's about how consistently the brain can direct and sustain focus, especially on things that aren't immediately rewarding.
Adults with ADHD often describe a lifetime of being told they're not reaching their potential, forgetting important things, or feeling like they have to work twice as hard as everyone else just to keep up. Many weren't diagnosed as children - particularly women, who often present with inattentive symptoms rather than hyperactivity.
ADHD frequently co-occurs with anxiety, depression, and sleep problems. A careful evaluation helps clarify what's ADHD, what's something else, and how these conditions interact.
A thorough evaluation is the starting point. I take a detailed history that includes childhood patterns, academic and work history, and current functioning across different areas of life. I won't just hand you a checklist - I want to understand your full picture before making any recommendations.
Medication management for ADHD can be highly effective, and I'll work with you to find the right fit. I also incorporate psychoeducation about how ADHD affects daily life, relationships, and self-esteem, because understanding your own brain is genuinely useful. All sessions are via telehealth across Virginia, available in English and Tiếng Việt.
An ADHD evaluation is a collaborative conversation, not a test you pass or fail. Here is what to expect at your first appointment:
Treatment is tailored to your needs. Options may include stimulant medications such as Adderall or Ritalin, non-stimulant alternatives such as Strattera or Wellbutrin, or a combination of medication and behavioral strategies. All options are discussed openly. Read more: ADHD in Adults: Signs, Diagnosis, and Treatment in Virginia.
If you are in crisis right now, please do not wait for an appointment.
Call or text 988 — the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Free, confidential, available 24/7.
For emergencies, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.
Alice Tran Psychiatric Care does not operate 24/7 and does not provide crisis services. Emails, voicemails, text or portal messages are typically responded to within 24 to 72 business hours.
You don't have to do it alone.
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