Therapy Options for ADHD and Anxiety
Therapy session with a woman using a journal to track coping strategies for ADHD and anxiety.
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and anxiety often co-occur, creating challenges that can affect daily functioning, relationships, and overall well-being. Finding the right ADHD therapy and therapy for anxiety is essential for managing symptoms effectively. Fortunately, there are a variety of evidence-based therapeutic approaches available, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), behavioral therapy for ADHD, and ADHD coaching.
At Thriving Wellness Center, we provide comprehensive virtual and in-person therapy services designed to support both teens and adults in managing ADHD, anxiety, and related concerns. This guide explores the most common therapeutic approaches, their benefits, and how to determine the best treatment plan for your needs.
Understanding ADHD and Anxiety
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by difficulties with attention, executive functioning, impulsivity, and emotional regulation. Anxiety, on the other hand, often involves excessive worry, hypervigilance, and avoidance behaviors. Many individuals experience both, with ADHD sometimes intensifying anxious thoughts due to challenges in organization, planning, and time management.
Recognizing the overlap between ADHD and anxiety is crucial for effective treatment. For example, a person with ADHD may feel constant stress and worry about forgetting tasks, missing deadlines, or making mistakes, which can trigger anxiety symptoms. Addressing both conditions concurrently often leads to better outcomes.
Evidence-Based Therapy Options
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is one of the most widely used approaches for both ADHD and anxiety. It focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thoughts and behaviors.
For ADHD: CBT can help individuals improve time management, organization, and task completion. It also provides tools to manage distractibility and impulsive behavior.
For Anxiety: CBT helps identify anxious thought patterns, challenge irrational beliefs, and develop coping strategies to reduce worry and stress.
Research shows that CBT can be highly effective for adults and teens, making it a cornerstone of a comprehensive ADHD treatment plan for adults and adolescents alike.
2. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
DBT was originally developed to treat emotional dysregulation but is increasingly applied to ADHD, especially when anxiety or intense emotions are present. DBT teaches skills in four key areas:
Mindfulness: Staying present and aware in the moment.
Distress Tolerance: Managing crises without engaging in self-destructive behaviors.
Emotion Regulation: Understanding and balancing strong emotions.
Interpersonal Effectiveness: Improving communication and relationships.
For individuals with ADHD and co-occurring anxiety, DBT offers practical tools to navigate emotional highs and lows while reducing stress and reactive behaviors.
3. Behavioral Therapy for ADHD
Behavioral therapy for ADHD focuses on modifying the environment and using structured strategies to encourage positive behaviors and reduce distractions. Techniques often include:
Creating daily routines and checklists
Using reinforcement systems for task completion
Breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps
Behavioral interventions are especially helpful for children and teens, but can also be adapted for adults struggling with executive functioning challenges. When combined with CBT or coaching, behavioral therapy enhances skill-building and symptom management.
4. ADHD Coaching for Teens
ADHD coaching for teens provides individualized support in a structured, goal-oriented format. Coaches work with clients to develop:
Study and homework strategies
Time management and organizational skills
Goal setting and accountability
Coaching emphasizes practical solutions and skill-building rather than exploring underlying emotional issues, making it a complement to therapy for anxiety or other emotional concerns. Many teens benefit from a combination of ADHD coaching and behavioral therapy, which helps them succeed academically and socially.
Click here to learn more about ADHD therapy.
Creating an ADHD and Anxiety Treatment Plan for Adults
For adults, a comprehensive ADHD and anxiety treatment plan often includes a combination of therapy, coaching, and lifestyle strategies. Key components may include:
CBT or DBT to manage anxiety and emotional regulation
ADHD coaching to improve organization, productivity, and goal achievement
Behavioral strategies to address distractibility and impulsivity
Mindfulness practices to enhance focus and reduce stress
A personalized treatment plan addresses the unique challenges of ADHD and anxiety in daily life, providing both structure and skills for long-term success.
Click here for more information on Neurodiversity Affirming Therapy for People with Autism and ADHD.
Virtual and In-Person Therapy Services for ADHD and Anxiety
At Thriving Wellness Center, we offer both virtual and in-person therapy for ADHD and Anxiety options to accommodate a variety of needs. Virtual therapy allows for convenient access from home, making it ideal for clients with busy schedules or those who prefer remote support. In-person sessions provide a more interactive environment and may be particularly helpful for teens or clients who benefit from direct coaching and hands-on behavioral strategies.
All of our services are tailored to the individual, whether that involves focused CBT for anxiety, skill-building with ADHD coaching, or integrated approaches combining multiple modalities. Our goal is to create a supportive, affirming environment where clients can develop practical strategies, understand their strengths, and thrive despite challenges.
Click here for more information on adult ADHD therapy.
Key Takeaways:
ADHD and anxiety frequently co-occur, requiring a thoughtful, integrated approach.
CBT, DBT, behavioral therapy, and coaching each provide unique benefits for managing symptoms.
Teens and adults can benefit from individualized therapy plans tailored to their specific challenges.
Virtual and in-person therapy options provide flexibility for accessing care.
A professional evaluation is the first step toward an effective ADHD and anxiety treatment plan.
Ready to take the next step?
If you or a loved one is struggling with ADHD or anxiety, seeking professional support is the most effective next step. Start by exploring which therapy approach aligns with your needs—whether that’s CBT, DBT, behavioral therapy for ADHD, or ADHD coaching for teens and adults.
At Thriving Wellness Center, we provide comprehensive ADHD evaluations and ADHD therapy and coaching for teens and adults—offered both virtually and in-person in New Jersey and New York.
👉 Contact us or visit Book Now today to discuss your ADHD and anxiety treatment options and develop a personalized plan.
Thriving Wellness Center Is Your Partner in Neurodivergent Support
At Thriving Wellness Center, we provide specialized services for adults across the lifespan who suspect they may be autistic, have ADHD, or both. We offer:
Comprehensive diagnostic evaluations for Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD
Neurodiversity-affirming therapy tailored to your identity and processing style
Executive functioning coaching to reduce overwhelm and build sustainable routines
Sensory and lifestyle support planning to help you regulate energy, reduce burnout, and live more comfortably
Documentation and support for accommodations in the workplace, school, or community settings