From the Guidelines
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is an effective treatment for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), particularly when used in combination with medication. This approach has been extensively studied, with the most recent evidence from 2024 1 highlighting its effectiveness in developing executive functioning skills, such as time management, organization, and planning, as well as emotional self-regulation, stress management, and impulse control. The key benefits of CBT for ADHD include:
- Developing more adaptive cognitions related to daily functioning
- Teaching adaptive behavioral skills to manage symptoms
- Enhancing emotional self-regulation and stress management
- Improving impulse control
As noted in the study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology 1, CBT has been found to be the most effective psychotherapy option for treating ADHD depression in adults, with its effectiveness further increased when used in conjunction with medication. This comprehensive treatment approach allows individuals with ADHD to better manage their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.
From the Research
Cognitive Therapy for ADHD
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a potential treatment for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in adults, as suggested by studies 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- CBT aims to change the thoughts and behaviors that reinforce harmful effects of the disorder by teaching people techniques to control the core symptoms, cope with emotions, and improve self-esteem 2.
Efficacy of CBT for ADHD
- Research indicates that CBT can be effective in reducing ADHD symptoms, improving organizational skills, and enhancing self-esteem, especially when combined with medication 2, 3, 5, 6.
- Studies have shown that CBT plus pharmacotherapy can lead to greater improvements in ADHD symptoms, organizational skills, and self-esteem compared to CBT alone or pharmacotherapy alone 3, 5.
- Internet-based CBT (iCBT) has also been found to be effective in reducing ADHD symptoms, improving executive function, quality of life, and global functioning in medicated adults with ADHD 5.
Secondary Outcomes of CBT for ADHD
- CBT has been shown to improve common secondary disturbances in adults with ADHD, such as depression and anxiety 2, 3, 5, 6.
- Studies have found significant differences in favor of CBT for self-reported depression, anxiety, and self-esteem compared to waiting list or supportive therapy 2, 6.
- CBT has also been found to improve emotional symptoms, executive function, and quality of life in adults with ADHD 5.
Limitations and Future Directions
- The majority of studies have been conducted in the northern hemisphere and Australia, limiting the generalizability of the results to other geographical locations 2.
- Further research is needed to explore the long-term efficacy of CBT for ADHD and to investigate the mechanisms of change involved in CBT for adult ADHD 2, 4.