UNDERSTANDING ADHD
Neuro-Affirming Approach
01
What is ADHD?
Supporting Uniqueness
Understanding the ADHD brain:
Traits once categorized into distinct forms such as ADD and ADHD are now understood as different expressions of the same neurological variation.
Individuals with ADHD may exhibit more inattentive traits, more hyperactivity and impulsivity, or symptoms of both.
ADHD brain also shows less developed executive functioning. (or self-regulating abilities, often compared to a control center or air traffic control, governing cognitive functions including focus, emotional control, flexibility, and future planning).
While ADHD individuals were once believed to have a "deficit" in executive functions, some new researchers are seeing ADHD as a mix of strengths and vulnerabilities.
“The term “deficit disorder” places ADHD in the realm of pathology, or disease. Individuals with ADHD do not have a disease, nor do they have a deficit of attention; in fact, what they have is an abundance of attention. The challenge is controlling it.”
02 Neuro-affirming Approach
Supporting Strengths
ADHD Strengths can be Challenged by:
Extended focus on non-preferred tasks
Behavioral & impulse control
Organization & planning
Emotion regulation
Self-monitoring & adapting
ADHD Strengths can bring Unique Perspectives:
Energetic exuberance
Courage & adventurousness
Creativity & divergent thinking
Ceaseless mental working activity
Hyperfocus on particular tasks
At DGPA, our assessments are tailored to your individual needs, with no scripted battery.
03 SPECIALTY PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATIONS
ASSESS & DIAGNOSE
Our psychologists are affirming of all strengths and celebrate neurodiversity. Currently, we take referrals for autism, ADHD, anxiety, OCD, learning needs, and other neurodivergent challenges. We serve ages 2 to 102.
Why Choose Us?
Expert diagnosticians work with you to determine needs and and supports.
We are dedicated and experienced psychologists.
Our experience provides more than the requisite training to administer evaluations.
We use more than just screenings - we administer norm-based tools.
We analyze the whole picture, not just the pieces.
Providers can recommend therapeutic interventions across the city and state.
We promote self-efficacy, empowerment, and success across settings.
“Dr. Gray is a thoughtful and attentive psychologist who provides services to her clients in a gracious and helpful manner. She is extremely knowledgeable and offers insightful assistance in answering many of your questions. As a colleague in the field she is one of the first professionals I will reach out to for help with situations related to my clients care.”
Schedule an Appointment
We accept your online inquiries 7 days a week and have specific office hours for in-person engagements. Outside of normal office hours you can receive immediate assistance at a local Urgent Care facility or, if necessary, please dial 911 for emergency services.