What Is ADHD?

ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition that impacts focus, attention, emotional regulation, and executive functioning. While it’s often first recognized in childhood, many people aren’t diagnosed until adulthood.

ADHD can look different for everyone. Some people feel constantly distracted or struggle to complete tasks. Others may experience restlessness, impulsivity, or emotional intensity. You might have trouble organizing your thoughts or keeping up with responsibilities—even when you care deeply and are trying your best.

These challenges are not about laziness or lack of motivation. ADHD is about how your brain processes information, and it affects many areas of daily life, including work, relationships, and self-esteem. With the right understanding and support, it’s absolutely possible to create systems that work for you and build a life that feels more aligned.

What Is Executive Functioning Disorder?

Executive functioning is a set of mental skills we use to plan, organize, manage time, remember information, and regulate our emotions. If you live with ADHD, you may find these skills are harder to access. You might struggle with getting started on tasks, staying on track, or finishing things—even when you really want to.

This can lead to overwhelm, forgetfulness, and frustration, especially when expectations don’t match how your brain works. These challenges are real and valid, and they don’t mean you’re broken or incapable. They reflect how your brain is wired—and you deserve support that meets you where you are.

Living with ADHD can feel like your mind is always moving faster than the world around you. You might struggle with staying organized, following through on tasks, managing time, or regulating your emotions. It’s not that you aren’t trying—it’s that the way your brain works often doesn’t match what the world expects. And that disconnect can lead to feelings of overwhelm, shame, low self-esteem, and frustration in your relationships, work, or day-to-day life.

ADHD is often misunderstood. Many people carry internalized messages that they’re lazy, careless, or not living up to their potential. But ADHD isn’t a character flaw—it’s a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, impulse control, and executive functioning. With the right support, you can learn to work with your brain, not against it.

In therapy, we’ll work together to understand how ADHD shows up for you. We’ll explore patterns, develop practical strategies, and build tools to help you navigate daily life with more ease. Just as importantly, we’ll make space for self-compassion, so you can move away from blame and toward understanding and empowerment. Together, we’ll work to help you feel more confident, capable, and in control of your life.

I support adults navigating ADHD, whether it's emotional regulation, focus, or overwhelm. I offer virtual ADHD counselling from Ottawa, accessible from anywhere in Ontario.