PMHNP Abby McFerran telehealth psychiatry med management in PA, RI, ME, and NJ

ADHD Evaluation & Treatment

Children, Adolescents, and Adults

ADHD is often associated with distraction and hyperactivity, but for many people the experience is far more complex. Difficulties with organization, motivation, time management, emotional regulation, and follow-through can affect school, work, relationships, and daily life.

I provide comprehensive ADHD evaluation and medication management for children, adolescents, and adults in Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Maine through secure telehealth appointments.

My approach emphasizes diagnostic clarity, thoughtful treatment planning, and ongoing collaboration to help patients better understand their symptoms and build sustainable strategies for success.

Schedule an appointment to get started →

Understanding ADHD

ADHD affects the brain's executive functioning systems, which help us plan, organize, prioritize, regulate attention, and manage daily responsibilities.

Many individuals with ADHD are highly intelligent, motivated, and capable. The challenge is often not knowing what needs to be done but consistently translating intention into action.

Common symptoms may include:

  • Difficulty starting or completing tasks

  • Chronic procrastination

  • Disorganization and forgetfulness

  • Time blindness and poor time management

  • Frequently losing important items

  • Difficulty sustaining attention

  • Hyperfocus on highly engaging activities

  • Emotional overwhelm or frustration

  • Restlessness or difficulty relaxing

  • Problems following through on commitments

ADHD can affect individuals differently depending on age, life circumstances, and co-occurring conditions.

ADHD in Adults

Many adults reach their 20s, 30s, 40s, or beyond without ever receiving an ADHD diagnosis.

Instead, they may have spent years believing they are:

  • Lazy

  • Unmotivated

  • Disorganized

  • Inconsistent

  • Not living up to their potential

Often these individuals have developed coping strategies that helped them succeed academically or professionally, but at the cost of significant stress, exhaustion, or self-criticism.

A comprehensive evaluation can help determine whether ADHD is contributing to longstanding challenges and identify the most appropriate path forward.

ADHD in Women

ADHD in women frequently goes unrecognized.

Many women do not fit traditional stereotypes of hyperactivity and may instead experience:

  • Chronic overwhelm

  • Difficulty managing multiple responsibilities

  • Emotional sensitivity

  • Anxiety

  • Perfectionism

  • Persistent feelings of being "behind"

Because symptoms can be more internalized, ADHD is often mistaken for anxiety, depression, or a character flaw rather than a neurodevelopmental condition.

I work with many women seeking answers about longstanding struggles with focus, organization, and emotional regulation.

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ADHD in Children and Adolescents

Children and adolescents with ADHD may struggle academically, socially, or emotionally despite having significant strengths.

Symptoms can include:

  • Difficulty sustaining attention

  • Excessive activity or restlessness

  • Impulsivity

  • Emotional dysregulation

  • Problems with organization and schoolwork

  • Frequent frustration or low self-esteem

Treatment is individualized and may include medication management, behavioral strategies, school accommodations, and collaboration with therapists or other healthcare providers when appropriate.

Learn more about ADHD in kids & teens →

ADHD Evaluation Process

A thorough ADHD evaluation involves more than simply checking a list of symptoms.

During the assessment process, we may discuss:

  • Current symptoms and concerns

  • Childhood history

  • Academic and occupational functioning

  • Family history

  • Medical and psychiatric history

  • Previous evaluations or treatment

  • Other conditions that may mimic or contribute to symptoms

Many conditions, including anxiety, depression, trauma, sleep disorders, and medical issues, can overlap with ADHD. Careful evaluation helps ensure that treatment recommendations are appropriate and evidence based.

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Treatment Options

Treatment recommendations are individualized based on symptoms, goals, medical history, and patient preferences.

Treatment may include:

Medication Management

When appropriate, medication can significantly improve attention, focus, organization, and daily functioning. I carefully review benefits, risks, and treatment options with each patient and monitor progress over time.

Behavioral Strategies

Medication is often most effective when combined with practical systems and habits that support executive functioning.

Therapy Collaboration

For patients already working with a therapist, I welcome collaboration to ensure treatment remains coordinated and aligned with overall goals.

Learn more about ADHD treatment →

Frequently Asked Questions

Do adults get diagnosed with ADHD?

Yes. Many individuals are not diagnosed until adulthood, particularly those who developed effective coping strategies earlier in life.

Do I need neuropsychological testing?

Not necessarily. In many cases, ADHD can be evaluated through a comprehensive psychiatric assessment. If additional testing is recommended, that can be discussed during the evaluation process.

Can ADHD look like anxiety?

Yes. ADHD and anxiety frequently overlap, and symptoms can sometimes appear similar. Careful assessment helps clarify what may be contributing to your difficulties.

Are stimulant medications the only treatment option?

No. Treatment plans are individualized and may include stimulant medications, non-stimulant medications, behavioral strategies, therapy, or a combination of approaches.

Ready to Get Started?

Whether you are seeking answers about longstanding attention difficulties, exploring a possible ADHD diagnosis, or looking for ongoing medication management, I provide thoughtful, evidence-based care tailored to your individual needs.

Schedule an Appointment →