ADHD Medications

Navigating life with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can feel like trying to run a marathon through a maze—with distractions, emotional spikes, and unmet expectations around every corner. Whether it’s trouble focusing, restlessness, disorganization, or emotional dysregulation, many individuals find themselves silently asking, “What’s wrong with me?”

At Crossroads Counseling Services, we want to help reframe that question entirely.

The answer isn’t that something is wrong—it’s that your brain functions differently, and you deserve tools, strategies, and support that work with you, not against you.

If you or someone you love is exploring ADHD treatment, understanding how medication fits into a holistic mental health plan can be a key part of healing. Medications—when prescribed and monitored appropriately—can be life-changing, especially when combined with therapy, structure, and consistent support.

Whether you’re searching for an ‘ADHD psychiatrist near me,’ considering psychiatric medication management near you, or trying to determine if medication is the right path for your child or yourself, Crossroads Counseling is here to guide you. 

What is ADHD?

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects both children and adults. It’s characterized by a persistent pattern of inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, or a combination of these behaviors. ADHD is more than occasional distraction or restlessness—it’s a lifelong condition that can impact academic achievement, job performance, relationships, and emotional well-being if left unaddressed.

ADHD presents differently from person to person. Some individuals primarily struggle with sustained attention, forgetfulness, or disorganization, while others experience more pronounced hyperactivity and impulsivity—often acting without thinking or struggling to sit still. Many people experience symptoms from both categories, which is known as combined-type ADHD.

While ADHD is typically diagnosed during childhood, symptoms often persist into adulthood. In fact, many adults may not receive a diagnosis until later in life—after years of coping with challenges in focus, emotional regulation, or productivity that were never clearly explained. This delay can lead to misdiagnosis, internalized shame, and missed opportunities for support.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 7 million people in the U.S. have been diagnosed with ADHD. However, the condition is significantly underdiagnosed in adults, meaning countless individuals may be living with unmanaged symptoms—often mistaken for anxiety, depression, or poor time management.

The Good News

ADHD is highly manageable, and people with ADHD can thrive with the right tools, education, and support. Research consistently shows that a combination of therapy, medication, coaching, and environmental modifications can help individuals:

  • Improve attention and focus
  • Strengthen emotional regulation
  • Reduce impulsive behaviors
  • Build self-confidence and executive functioning skills
  • Enhance academic, occupational, and relational success

At Crossroads Counseling Services, we’re here to help you understand what ADHD looks like in real life—not just on paper—and support your growth with compassionate, individualized care.

Types of ADHD Medications

When it comes to managing ADHD, medication can play a key role in improving focus, reducing impulsivity, and regulating mood—but there’s no “one-size-fits-all” solution. The best medication plan is tailored to each person’s individual biology, lifestyle, and any co-occurring mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, or trauma.

ADHD medications generally fall into two main categories: stimulants and non-stimulants. Each type works differently in the brain and may be more or less effective depending on the person’s unique needs and responses.

1. Stimulant Medications

Stimulants are the most widely prescribed and well-researched medications for ADHD. They work by increasing levels of dopamine and norepinephrine—neurotransmitters that help regulate attention, motivation, and executive function.

Common stimulant medications include:

  • Methylphenidate-based medications (e.g., Ritalin, Concerta, Daytrana)
  • Amphetamine-based medications (e.g., Adderall, Vyvanse, Dexedrine)

These medications are known for their fast-acting effects and have been shown to reduce core ADHD symptoms in 70–80% of children and adults. Many people experience noticeable improvements in focus, emotional regulation, task initiation, and productivity—sometimes within the first few doses.

However, stimulants are not without risks. Potential side effects may include:

  • Appetite suppression or weight loss
  • Difficulty sleeping or insomnia
  • Increased anxiety or irritability
  • Elevated heart rate or blood pressure in some individuals

For this reason, close monitoring by a prescribing professional is essential, particularly in the early stages of treatment. Adjustments in dose, type, or timing may be necessary to find the right balance.

2. Non-Stimulant Medications

Non-stimulant medications are an effective alternative for individuals who:

  • Don’t respond well to stimulants
  • Experience undesirable side effects
  • Have a personal or family history of substance misuse
  • Have co-occurring conditions like anxiety, tics, or sleep disorders

Common non-stimulant medications include:

  • Atomoxetine (Strattera) – A selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (NRI) approved for both children and adults with ADHD
  • Guanfacine (Intuniv) – Originally used for blood pressure, this medication can help with emotional regulation and impulsivity
  • Clonidine (Kapvay) – Another blood pressure medication that can aid with hyperactivity, sleep, and anxiety symptoms

Unlike stimulants, non-stimulants take several weeks to reach full therapeutic effect but may offer a more gentle, sustained approach to symptom management. They also tend to have fewer risks for misuse and can be especially helpful for clients with overlapping anxiety or sleep concerns.

At Crossroads Counseling, we know that medication is just one piece of the puzzle. That’s why we work collaboratively with prescribing providers to ensure medication is part of a comprehensive support plan that includes therapy, coaching, and community care. Whether you’re searching for psychiatric medication management near you or an ADHD psychiatrist near you, we’re here to help guide and support the process—every step of the way.

ADHD and Anxiety: A Common Combination

Many people searching for ‘anxiety medication near me’ are surprised to discover that untreated ADHD may be part of the equation. In fact, 25–40% of individuals with ADHD also experience anxiety disorders.

This overlap between ADHD and anxiety doesn’t just complicate symptoms—it can make diagnosis and treatment more challenging. For example, difficulty concentrating might stem from inattention due to ADHD or from rumination and worry caused by anxiety. Similarly, restlessness, irritability, or poor sleep can blur the lines between the two conditions.

That’s why it’s critical to work with a psychiatric provider who specializes in dual-diagnosis care—someone who understands how these conditions can mimic, mask, or intensify one another. Effective treatment requires more than a checklist of symptoms; it demands nuanced evaluation, thoughtful medication planning, and integrated therapeutic support.

At Crossroads Counseling, we help bridge this gap. We partner with trusted psychiatric providers who are experienced in managing co-occurring mental health conditions like ADHD and anxiety. Through this collaborative approach, we ensure that your care is:

  • Accurate – with thorough assessments that distinguish overlapping symptoms
  • Safe – with medication plans tailored to your unique mental health profile
  • Supportive – with therapy that reinforces emotional regulation, stress tolerance, and self-awareness

If you’ve been searching for psychiatric medication management near me or an ADHD psychiatrist near me who can also address anxiety, we’re here to help you build a treatment plan that’s truly comprehensive—not fragmented or one-dimensional.

What Crossroads Counseling Offers: Comprehensive ADHD Support

At Crossroads Counseling Services, we understand that ADHD is a complex, lifelong condition that requires more than just a diagnosis—it calls for a multifaceted support system. We offer comprehensive ADHD care, including therapy and medication management through our in-house psychiatrist and nurse practitioners, ensuring you have the support you need at every stage of your journey. 

Here’s how we support you:

In-House Psychiatric Care & Medication Management

What sets Crossroads Counseling apart is our access to psychiatric services directly within our care team. For clients seeking or already using medication as part of their ADHD treatment, we offer on-site psychiatric evaluation and ongoing medication management through:

  • Dr. James V. Dyers, D.O. – Board-certified psychiatrist serving adolescents and adults
  • Victoria Brueggert, PMHNP-BC – Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with expertise in ADHD and child/adolescent care
  • Beth Gomez, PMHNP-BC & FNP-BC – A double board-certified family & psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who offers a combination of medication management and psychotherapy services, tailoring each approach to meet the specific needs of her patients. 

Our prescribers work closely with our therapy team to ensure medication and behavioral strategies are aligned—minimizing fragmentation and maximizing progress.

Clinical Therapy & Behavioral Strategies

Our licensed therapists work collaboratively with clients to build sustainable strategies for managing ADHD symptoms. Sessions are tailored to the individual’s age, lifestyle, and co-occurring challenges. Areas of focus include:

  • Emotional regulation – recognizing and responding to emotions with greater control
  • Executive functioning skills – planning, organization, and prioritization techniques
  • Time management and routine-building – developing systems that support consistency
  • Impulse control – learning to pause and respond thoughtfully to urges and distractions
  • Mindfulness and grounding practices – enhancing focus and reducing mental noise

We also work with families to build supportive structures at home, strengthen parent-child communication, and reduce frustration around behavior management.

Support Across Life Stages

ADHD affects people differently across childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. Our services are built to support you or your loved one through each stage:

  • Children & Teens – Support for school-related challenges, social relationships, and emotional development, often in tandem with parental guidance
  • College Students & Young Adults – Coaching for academic demands, time management, and navigating independence
  • Adults – Strategies for managing symptoms at work, in relationships, or following a late diagnosis
  • Parents & Caregivers – Therapy to process the emotional toll, build advocacy skills, and implement tools at home

At Crossroads Counseling, you’ll find more than ADHD treatment—you’ll find a compassionate team that understands how layered and personal this experience can be. Whether you’re exploring a diagnosis, seeking support after years of struggle, or navigating co-occurring conditions like anxiety, depression, or trauma, we’re here to help you move forward—confidently and with care.

FAQs: Medication Management and ADHD

No—therapists are not authorized to prescribe medication. However, at Crossroads Counseling, our therapists work closely with in-house psychiatric providers, including psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners, to ensure your care is well-coordinated. We assist with referrals (if needed), track treatment progress, and advocate for your therapeutic and medical needs in an integrated, collaborative manner.

What if I’ve tried ADHD medication before and it didn’t work?

Finding the right medication or dosage can take time. It’s not uncommon to adjust your treatment plan based on how your body responds. Our psychiatric team will walk you through the process, offering medical insight, and your therapist will be there for emotional support and behavioral reinforcement along the way. You don’t have to navigate trial and error alone.

What if I’m nervous about giving my child ADHD medication?

This is a very common concern—and one we approach with compassion and care. Our team offers family-centered guidance to help you make informed decisions. We provide education on potential benefits, risks, and side effects, explore behavioral interventions as complementary or alternative strategies, and ensure you have a safe space to ask questions and express concerns.

Can adults be diagnosed with ADHD for the first time?

Absolutely. Many adults live with undiagnosed ADHD for years before seeking support. Our psychiatric and therapeutic teams work together to assess symptoms, rule out other conditions, and create a treatment plan—whether that includes medication, therapy, or both.

Do you offer medication management onsite?

Yes. Crossroads Counseling offers direct access to psychiatric providers who specialize in ADHD care, including Dr. James V. Dyers, DO (psychiatrist), Victoria Brueggert, PMHNP-BC (psychiatric nurse practitioner – board certified), and Beth Gomez, PMHNP-BC (psychiatric nurse practitioner – board certified) & FNP-BC (family nurse practitioner – board certified). You don’t have to go elsewhere for evaluations, prescriptions, or follow-ups—we offer full-service care in-house.

Is medication the only way to treat ADHD?

Not at all. While medication can be highly effective for many individuals, it’s not the only option. Therapy, coaching, lifestyle adjustments, and behavioral interventions also play a critical role. At Crossroads Counseling, we tailor each treatment plan to fit your goals, preferences, and overall wellness—not just symptom control.

You’re Not Alone—and You Don’t Have to Do This Alone

Living with ADHD can bring more questions than answers. Whether you’re a parent concerned about your child’s focus and behavior, an adult exploring a long-overdue diagnosis, or someone feeling frustrated after trying treatments that haven’t worked—you’re not alone. And you don’t have to figure it out on your own.

At Crossroads Counseling Services, we specialize in walking alongside individuals and families through every phase of the ADHD journey. With a deep understanding of the emotional, medical, and social aspects of care, our team is here to help you make informed decisions with confidence and compassion.

We support you in:

  • Understanding your diagnosis through therapeutic insight, education, and evidence-based assessment tools
  • Exploring treatment options, including behavioral therapy, psychiatric evaluation, and medication management—all within one coordinated care team
  • Navigating co-occurring conditions, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or learning challenges, that often overlap with ADHD
  • Finding the right fit, whether you’re searching for an ADHD specialist, a child psychiatrist, or ongoing support for medication management

We don’t just treat symptoms—we support people. With respect. With insight. And with long-term strategies that evolve as your needs do.

Ready for Real Support? Let’s Take the Next Step Together.

If you’ve been searching online for an ADHD psychiatrist near me, medication management for anxiety, or how to treat adult ADHD—pause. You’ve found a care team that doesn’t just offer answers, but offers a path forward.

At Crossroads Counseling Services, our commitment goes beyond appointments. We provide integrated care that prioritizes your goals, respects your concerns, and adapts as your story unfolds.

Schedule a consultation to learn more about our ADHD, anxiety, and psychiatric services. Whether you’re just beginning this journey or looking to refine your care plan, we’re here—to listen, to guide, and to support you every step of the way.

Because your mental health deserves more than quick fixes. It deserves connection, clarity, and care you can trust.

Works Cited:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, October 10). ADHD data and statistics. https://www.cdc.gov/adhd/data/index.html

Cortese, S., Ferrin, M., Brandeis, D., Buitelaar, J., Daley, D., Dittmann, R. W., … & European ADHD Guidelines Group. (2015). Cognitive training for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: Meta-analysis of clinical and neuropsychological outcomes from randomized controlled trials. Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 54(3), 164–174. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5581282/

Hirsch, L. E., & Conti, K. (2023). Understanding ADHD: Exploring current perspectives. National Library of Medicine. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11500298/

Hirsch, O. (2024, April). Managing emotional dysregulation in ADHD. Monitor on Psychology, 55(4). American Psychological Association. https://www.apa.org/monitor/2024/04/adhd-managing-emotion-dysregulation

Wolraich, M. L., Hagan, J. F., Allan, C., Chan, E., Davison, D., Earls, M., … & Zurhellen, W. (2019). Clinical practice guideline for the diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in children and adolescents. Pediatrics, 144(4), e20192528. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2019-2528