Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is also referred to as Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD). The condition reduces people's quality of life and interferes with success in their careers, education, social relationships, and everyday life. Evidence-based ADHD treatment can be effective in managing the symptoms of ADHD and empowering people to thrive in all aspects of their lives. Contact Dr. Brendel to discuss the diagnostic approach and best care options for you or your loved one.
Overview of Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
In the last couple of decades, there has been growing recognition of the impact of ADHD in both children and adults. The “mental health pandemic,” which was intensified by Covid-19 and continues unabated to this day, heightened people’s awareness of the condition even more.
So many people in the U.S. and around the world are struggling with unprecedented levels of stress and anxiety related to concerns about work, school, and social relationships. These challenges often outstrip people’s ability to cope effectively and can either cause or exacerbate ADHD.
Changes in work patterns over recent years, especially with work from home and hybrid work models, exacerbated many people’s difficulties with ADHD. People are still struggling to adapt to the changes. Recognition of ADHD can help people improve their quality of life and achieve optimal work performance.
The symptoms of ADHD can include problems with mental focus, concentration, and initiation and completion of tasks. People with ADHD suffer with diminished work performance and productivity, whether they are in challenging jobs or in school. They are easily distracted, sidetracked, and frustrated in their ability to complete projects efficiently. They end up working longer hours and experiencing major stress in the course of trying to complete basic tasks. These symptoms can result in anxiety, insomnia, burnout, physical illness, and loss of time for socializing and pursuing other interests.
Types of ADHD
ADHD affects both adults and children. ADHD is a common disorder in childhood that persists into adulthood for one-third to one-half of people diagnosed with it. Many adults have ADHD that wasn’t diagnosed during their childhood. Many others develop the condition for the first time as adults. There are three types of ADHD: predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive-impulse, and a combined type. Psychiatrists diagnose the type of ADHD based on the number and severity of symptoms in each category.
Symptoms of ADHD
ADHD presents in three subtypes: Predominantly Inattentive, Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive, and Combined. Symptoms differ by type:
Inattentive Symptoms
- Difficulty sustaining focus on tasks or conversations
- Easily distracted by external stimuli or stray thoughts
- Missing details; making careless errors at work or school
- Forgetfulness and frequently losing needed items
- Avoiding tasks that require sustained mental effort
- Difficulty following through on instructions or plans
Hyperactive & Impulsive Symptoms
- Restlessness; near-constant need for movement
- Fidgeting, leg shaking, or squirming even in meetings
- Talking excessively; difficulty being quiet
- Interrupting conversations and damaging relationships
- Impatience and difficulty waiting one’s turn
- Emotional reactivity and impulsive decision-making
Treatment for ADHD
Drawing on my experience as a psychiatrist who has specialized in ADHD for more than two decades, I perform diagnostic evaluations for ADHD and support patients to navigate through difficulties with a combination of treatments which can include medication, executive function coaching, and various wellness strategies. These evidence-based therapeutic approaches to ADHD can be remarkably effective. I have worked with hundreds of patients whose treatment has completely transformed their emotional, social, and work lives for the better.
In the context of ADHD, I emphasize a holistic, personalized treatment approach tailored to each patient’s specific needs:
Pharmacotherapy
Expert prescribing of FDA-approved stimulants (Adderall, Vyvanse) and non-stimulants (Strattera, Wellbutrin). Deep expertise developed over 25+ years of ADHD specialty practice in Boston, MA.
Psychotherapy & Executive Coaching
Cognitive-behavioral strategies for organizational skills, time management, and peak performance. Includes partnership with Leading Minds Executive Coaching for high-performing professionals.
Lifestyle Optimization
Evidence-based improvements to sleep patterns, nutrition, exercise, and mindfulness practice — addressing the mind-body factors that directly impact ADHD severity and daily quality of life.
Philosophical Counseling
Deep self-awareness work to help patients understand their ADHD and build lasting coping strategies. Learn more about philosophical counseling.
Treatment for ADHD has multiple benefits beyond empowering people to focus on work and perform tasks efficiently. Overall quality of life also improves substantially. When people get their work done more quickly and effectively, they have more downtime for socializing, exercising, and pursuing interests other than work. Less stress means better sleep and better physical and mental health. People sleep better knowing that they’ve gotten their work done on time and that they’ll be able to succeed with upcoming tasks as well. This greatly enhances a sense of well-being and self-confidence.
My approach is highly personalized and customized. I carefully consider each patient’s unique needs and circumstances while integrating medical, psychological, and behavioral perspectives to address the mind-body aspects of ADHD.
Taking Action
There are many treatments that can be effective for patients in managing the symptoms of ADHD. A combination of medication, therapy, and psychoeducation is often most effective. As an experienced ADHD Psychiatrist in the Boston-area, I hope that I can help you or your loved one. Book an appointment online with ZocDoc, contact me today via telephone at (617) 932-1548, or email me: ForPatients@
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Ready to Take Control of Your ADHD?
Dr. Brendel is currently accepting new patients in Belmont, MA — minutes from Boston and Cambridge. Schedule your comprehensive ADHD evaluation today.
Why Choose Dr. Brendel for ADHD Treatment?
Dr. David Brendel brings more than two decades of specialized experience evaluating and treating adult ADHD and ADD in the Greater Boston area. Here is what distinguishes his practice:
- 25+ years specializing in ADHD — one of the most experienced ADHD psychiatrists in Boston, MA
- Harvard-trained with an MD and PhD; board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology
- Expert in ADHD medication management: deep expertise prescribing FDA-approved stimulants (including Adderall and Vyvanse) and non-stimulant alternatives (such as Strattera and Wellbutrin) safely and effectively
- Comprehensive evaluation approach: thorough diagnostic assessment to distinguish ADHD from anxiety, mood disorders, and other conditions that can mimic ADHD symptoms
- Holistic treatment: integrates pharmacotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, executive function coaching, and lifestyle strategies
- Executive coaching partnership with Leading Minds Executive Coaching for high-performing professionals
- Author of Healing Psychiatry (MIT Press) — rigorous academic background applied to personalized clinical care
- Located in Belmont, MA, conveniently serving Greater Boston, Cambridge, and surrounding communities
- Accepting new patients — book online via ZocDoc or call (617) 932-1548
Adult ADHD is widely underdiagnosed. Many adults spent years or even decades struggling with focus, productivity, and self-esteem before receiving an accurate diagnosis. Others were diagnosed in childhood but have never had access to the sophisticated, personalized care that results in real, lasting improvement.
Dr. Brendel’s approach is highly individualized. He performs a thorough psychiatric evaluation to confirm or rule out an ADHD diagnosis, screens for common co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders, and then develops a treatment plan tailored to each patient’s unique circumstances, goals, and preferences.
The results can be transformative. As Dr. Brendel notes: ‘I have worked with hundreds of patients whose ADHD treatment has completely changed their emotional, social, and professional lives for the better.’
If you are searching for an ADHD specialist or ADHD doctor near Boston, Massachusetts, Dr. Brendel’s practice offers the clinical depth, precision, and compassionate care you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions About ADHD Treatment
Is Dr. Brendel an ADHD specialist near Boston, MA?
Yes. Dr. Brendel’s practice is located in Belmont, MA — minutes from Boston and Cambridge — and he is one of the most experienced ADHD psychiatrists in the Greater Boston area. He has specialized in evaluating and treating ADHD and ADD in adults for over 25 years.
Does Dr. Brendel diagnose adult ADHD?
Yes. Dr. Brendel performs comprehensive psychiatric evaluations for adult ADHD, including a thorough review of symptoms, personal and medical history, and assessment for co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders that can overlap with ADHD. He provides a detailed diagnosis and a clear explanation of findings.
Does Dr. Brendel prescribe ADHD medication such as Adderall or Vyvanse?
Yes. Dr. Brendel has deep expertise in prescribing FDA-approved ADHD medications, including stimulants (such as Adderall and Vyvanse) and non-stimulant alternatives (such as Strattera and Wellbutrin). He carefully evaluates each patient’s medical history, risk factors, and treatment goals to prescribe safely and effectively, and monitors patients closely over time.
What is the difference between ADD and ADHD?
ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) is an older term now classified under ADHD (Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder). Today, ADHD has three subtypes: predominantly inattentive (the ‘classic ADD’ presentation), predominantly hyperactive-impulsive, and combined type. All three are diagnosed and treated under the ADHD umbrella, and Dr. Brendel treats all subtypes.
Can adults develop ADHD, or is it only a childhood condition?
ADHD is not only a childhood condition. ADHD persists into adulthood in one-third to one-half of those diagnosed as children, and many adults are diagnosed for the first time in adulthood. Symptoms in adults often look different from those in children — hyperactivity may diminish while inattention, disorganization, and difficulty with executive function remain prominent.
What does an ADHD evaluation with Dr. Brendel involve?
Dr. Brendel’s ADHD evaluations are thorough and individualized. The assessment includes a detailed clinical interview covering current symptoms, life history, academic and work performance, and family history. He screens for conditions that commonly co-occur with ADHD (such as anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, and learning disabilities) and uses that comprehensive picture to form an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.
What ADHD treatments does Dr. Brendel offer beyond medication?
Beyond medication, Dr. Brendel offers a comprehensive treatment approach that may include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) referrals, executive function coaching, lifestyle modification (sleep, nutrition, exercise, mindfulness), and philosophical counseling to build self-awareness and coping strategies. This integrated approach produces the most lasting results.
Is Dr. Brendel accepting new ADHD patients?
Yes. Dr. Brendel is currently accepting new patients with ADHD and ADD throughout the Greater Boston area. You can book an appointment online via ZocDoc or call his Belmont, MA office at (617) 932-1548.