ADHD treatment for kids, teens, and adults

Yes. The DSM-5 recognizes three presentations: predominantly inattentive (difficulties primarily with focus and organization), predominantly hyperactive-impulsive (difficulties primarily with activity level and impulse control), and combined presentation (features of both). Presentation can shift over time — hyperactive symptoms often become less prominent in adulthood. If you're unsure which presentation applies to you or a loved one, Charlie Health's Clinical Team can help.

ADD (attention deficit disorder) was an older term used before the DSM-5 updated the diagnostic criteria. The current diagnosis is ADHD, which includes three presentations. What used to be called ADD is now referred to as ADHD, predominantly inattentive presentation — meaning someone whose ADHD shows up mainly as difficulty focusing, organizing, and following through rather than hyperactivity or impulsivity.

ADHD is diagnosed more frequently in boys, but research increasingly shows that ADHD in girls and women is significantly underdiagnosed. Girls are more likely to present with inattentive symptoms — which are less disruptive and therefore less likely to be flagged — and are more likely to mask their difficulties. Many women receive their first ADHD diagnosis in adulthood.

Yes. ADHD is a lifelong condition for most people. Many adults are diagnosed for the first time after years of unrecognized symptoms. Adult ADHD often looks different from childhood ADHD — hyperactivity may present as internal restlessness rather than physical activity, and executive function difficulties often become more apparent as the demands of work and independent living increase.

Any time attention, impulsivity, or executive function difficulties are significantly affecting school, work, relationships, or daily life. Many people — particularly women and adults — go years without an accurate diagnosis. If ADHD symptoms feel familiar but have never been formally evaluated, an assessment is a worthwhile first step. Charlie Health's Admissions Team is available 24/7.

Several evidence-based therapies are effective for treating ADHD.

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps identify the thought patterns and behavioral habits that worsen ADHD-related difficulties — procrastination, avoidance, negative self-talk — and builds practical strategies for managing time, staying organized, and following through.
• Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) targets the emotional dysregulation and impulsivity that are central features of ADHD for many people, delivered at Charlie Health with a neurodivergent-affirming approach that adapts pacing and structure to fit each client.
• Mindfulness-based approaches help people with ADHD develop greater awareness of their attention — noticing when the mind wanders and returning focus without self-judgment.

Charlie Health's Clinical Team works with each client to determine the right combination of treatment options for their specific needs.

Charlie Health's team can provide consultation and support for ADHD and co-occurring conditions. However, due to federal telehealth regulations, stimulant medications cannot be prescribed through Charlie Health's platform. For clients who need stimulant medication, the Clinical Team can help coordinate with local prescribing resources.

An Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) is a level of behavioral healthcare for people who need more support than traditional weekly therapy but don't require inpatient care. The goal is to help people manage mental health and substance use challenges while maintaining their daily routines and responsibilities. Our IOP is delivered to clients directly at home through a virtual platform. Each program runs 9–12 weeks and includes 10+ hours of care per week. That time is split across individual therapy and group sessions, with family therapy and psychiatry available when clinically indicated. Scheduling is flexible, with morning, afternoon, and evening options to fit around school, work, and other commitments.

Charlie Health is in-network with more than 600 insurance plans nationwide, including most major commercial plans, TRICARE, and Medicaid in select states. Most clients (60%) pay $0 out-of-pocket. To verify coverage, contact the Admissions Team directly or fill out the online intake form.