What Therapies Are Available for ADHD?
This is a high level overview of the therapies that are available for ADHD. Some of these may be available in your area.
Use this information to support conversations with the medical professional you are discussing your child with i.e SenCo, Key worker, Paediatrician, health visitor.
1. Speech therapy: Children with ADHD may have difficulty communicating, so speech therapy can be helpful in helping them develop their language skills.
2. Occupational therapy: Occupational therapy can help children with ADHD improve their motor skills and learn how to complete daily tasks independently.
3. Social skills training: Children with ADHD may have difficulty with social interactions, so social skills training can help them learn how to interact appropriately with others.
4. Medications: In some cases, medication can be used to help manage the symptoms of ADHD, anxiety or depression .
5. Sensory integration therapy: Aims to help a child understand and respond to sensory stimuli in the environment, such as light and sound. For example, weighted blankets, deep pressure, and joint compressions can provide deep pressure input to the body, which can help to improve focus and decrease anxiety.
6. Music therapy: Uses music to help children with ADHD develop social and communication skills.
7. Art therapy: Uses art activities to help children express their emotions and build self-esteem.
8. Animal assisted therapy (AAT) has been shown to help ADHD children in a variety of ways. AAT can help reduce anxiety, increase socialisation, and improve communication skills. The calming presence of an animal can help ADHD children regulate their emotions, providing a sense of safety and comfort.
9. Parent and family support: Parents and caregivers play a vital role in the treatment and support of children with ADHD. Joining a support group or working with a therapist who has experience with ADHD can help parents and caregivers learn how to better communicate and interact with their child.
