Could it be ADHD? Let's talk about it.
ADHD Program
You may have noticed your child struggling to focus, stay organized, or control impulses — and you’re wondering if ADHD could be the reason. Maybe your child is a daydreamer or an energetic explorer who finds it hard to slow down. Or, you’re here with a diagnosis and you’re looking for clear answers to complex questions, so you and your child can move forward with confidence and hope.
The journey toward clarity begins with understanding. Our role is to help you and your child know and accept themselves while learning the skills that will help them succeed at home, in school, and beyond.
When is the ADHD Program right?
These are some of the inattention, impulsive, and hyperactive behaviors we see the most. If you’re seeing some of these (or others) at home, we can help you understand why and address them.
Difficulties paying or holding their attention or following directions (in school or during other tasks, especially those they don’t enjoy)
Difficulty sitting still (fidgeting or constantly moving like they are “driven by a motor”)
Talking excessively or exhibiting distracting or disruptive behaviors outside the home (like at school)
Impulsive actions without thought of values or consequences, getting into trouble more than same-aged peers
The elements of care for ADHD
Kids with ADHD thrive in supportive environments. When you understand your child’s unique strengths and challenges, you can help provide them with the framework they need to thrive.
Evaluation
Care begins with a diagnostic evaluation, which at Brightline is a series of three appointments. These appointments are vital to helping us get to know you and your child. They give you clarity and build the foundation for care — we will deeply understand your concerns, explore any related needs, and create a care plan that is evidence-based, individualized, and geared towards progress.
Our goal is to schedule these sessions as close together as possible for continuity, engagement, and convenience.
The first two of the three sessions involve you and your child in largely separate conversations. The third appointment is the feedback appointment. This is a highly interactive and collaborative opportunity to share our impressions and discuss what we know about concerns and treatment options based on research.
Evaluation
Care begins with a diagnostic evaluation, which at Brightline is a series of three appointments. These appointments are vital to helping us get to know you and your child. They give you clarity and build the foundation for care — we will deeply understand your concerns, explore any related needs, and create a care plan that is evidence-based, individualized, and geared towards progress.
Our goal is to schedule these sessions as close together as possible for continuity, engagement, and convenience.
The first two of the three sessions involve you and your child in largely separate conversations. The third appointment is the feedback appointment. This is a highly interactive and collaborative opportunity to share our impressions and discuss what we know about concerns and treatment options based on research.
How we work with kids, teens, and families
Whether the care is centered around the parent (with parent management training, to help you understand and support your child) or is focused on the child, treatment starts with learning about ADHD and the work that will be done in treatment. Treatment goals are determined collaboratively and we work together to address anything that might get in the way of a successful treatment path.
When it comes to ADHD treatment, the core phase focuses on learning strategies to manage ADHD symptoms and leverage your child’s strengths. Parents gain skills to help make things like homework, getting out of the house in the morning, and managing screen time easier. Teachers may learn strategies to help your child improve their attention and behavior in the classroom. And your child may learn organizational skills such as how to plan for assignments and tests, keep materials organized, and manage their time.
When the family and therapist collaboratively determine it’s time to wind care down, we enter the wrap-up phase. This is when we work together to reinforce the skills you and your child have learned, celebrate successes, and create a “what if” plan for when a return to care might be needed.
All three phases of treatment utilize progress measurements that can include practice trackers, behavioral concern trackers, positive reinforcement resources, daily report cards, daily activity planning, time management planning, and safety plans.
The length of care hinges on how care is progressing, especially if we’re addressing multiple needs. You as the parent (and our partner) will help us rank the top problems and will complete standardized questionnaires as one way of providing feedback about how you feel treatment is progressing. Progress is measured weekly and monthly.
Therapy sessions are usually 55 minutes long and psychiatry sessions are 30 minutes long. Therapy sessions are longer because they involve social, emotional, and behavioral interventions. Psychiatry primarily involves medication management with some supportive therapy skills or reinforcements where indicated and aligned with your child’s therapy.
Hear what Brightline parents have to say
“I feel like I have someone on my side helping me and my family navigate through the chaos of life and kids with ADHD.”
Explore more ADHD articles
ADHD Program FAQs
What is Brightline’s approach for supporting kids with ADHD?
We help kids with ADHD (and their families!) learn strategies to manage time, belongings, and approaches to tasks that they might find difficult due to their symptoms. This is called organizational skills training, and it combines with our clinical training to handle any other co-occurring mental health concerns your child may be experiencing. Speaking of you — parent support and involvement is a vital piece of the ADHD treatment puzzle. Research shows that kids with ADHD positively benefit from immediate reinforcement, so a critical part of their behavior change is having the people in their life helping to implement these strategies. We also help parents set the child’s environment up for success by reducing distractions and setting clear routines. Parent sessions and consultations with school help the adults in your child’s life promote on task, appropriate, and positive behaviors. Much of how we treat kids with ADHD is the same as or similar to what we offer in our disruptive behaviors program.
What signs suggest my child might have ADHD?
Common signs include difficulty focusing, acting before thinking, or constant movement. But ADHD can also look like forgetfulness, daydreaming, or emotional sensitivity. Our clinicians are trained to separate typical developmental behaviors from signs of ADHD that need support.
Do I need testing to confirm if my child has ADHD?
Not necessarily. In most cases we can determine that through our thorough diagnostic evaluation. With a combination of questionnaires, interviews, and observation, we can evaluate your child’s attention and impulse control. If psychological testing is indicated as a need, we’ll talk it through. Either way, the goal is a clear understanding of your child and how to help them — not just assigning a label.
What happens after the evaluation?
You’ll receive a detailed explanation of the results and recommendations for next steps — whether that’s school accommodations, therapy, a medication consultation, or practical strategies you can use at home.
My child’s teacher sees different behavior than I do — how do you address that?
That’s common. We gather input from both home and school because ADHD symptoms can vary across settings. Understanding both perspectives ensures a more accurate, individualized diagnosis and care plan.
What if my child is nervous or shy during care?
Our clinicians take time to connect with your child, explain each step, and help them feel comfortable. Our approach is designed to be supportive and encouraging, not intimidating.
Can treatment for ADHD help if my child has another condition, too?
Absolutely. Many kids with ADHD also experience other conditions such as anxiety or learning differences. Our care is built to be comprehensive, ensuring no contributing factor is overlooked.
Will my child be judged for struggling to pay attention?
Not at Brightline. We understand that focus and regulation are skills that your child is still developing. Our approach is rooted in empathy and science — not criticism.
Am I the only parent who feels guilty for not recognizing my child’s ADHD sooner?
You’re definitely not alone. Many parents share that feeling, but what matters most is that you’re here now — taking steps toward understanding, growth, and support.
How do you ensure the goals we set truly reflect my child’s potential?
We use validated, research-backed methods and interpret them in the context of your child’s personality, strengths, and environment — so the picture we provide is complete and right for your child.
Get in touch with us
It's okay if you don't know the root of the issue or are unsure what to say. We've been there — and now we're here for you.
