Approximately 10 million adults have attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Although ADHD is typically diagnosed in childhood, its effects can linger into adulthood, impacting cognitive skills and communication abilities. In fact, many of the clients I’ve worked with in my practice were first diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, rather than as a child. According to the Mayo Clinic, “Adult ADHD can lead to unstable relationships, poor work or school performance, low self-esteem, and other problems.” In this blog post, I’ll be sharing about ADHD, how it impacts cognitive-communication skills in adults, and how speech therapy can help improve attention, memory, executive function, and communication.
Understanding ADHD in Adulthood
According to the Mayo Clinic, “ADHD is a mental health disorder that includes a combination of persistent problems, such as difficulty paying attention, hyperactivity and impulsive behavior.” Here are some key ways that ADHD can affect adults:
- Attention Difficulties: The hallmark symptom of ADHD is difficulty focusing or sustaining attention. This can interfere with tasks or conversations at home, work, or in social settings.
- Memory Issues: Forgetfulness and difficulty with short-term memory are common in ADHD. This can make it hard to remember and be on time for appointments, or to recall important details or topics of conversation. In addition, folks may find they often misplace or lose things.
- Executive Function Impairments: Executive functions, which include skills like planning, organizing, initiating, and problem solving, can be impaired in adults with ADHD. This can lead to problems with time management and completing daily tasks.
- Communication Difficulties: Adults with ADHD may find themselves having difficulty following conversations or expressing themselves clearly. And of course, if you’re impulsive, not able to pay attention to a conversation, or remember what you or someone else has said to you, these cognitive skills can have a negative impact on social communication as well.
The Role of Speech Therapy in ADHD Management
Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) are licensed professionals who specialize in evaluating and treating cognitive and communication impairments. (*even though we are commonly referred to as “speech” therapists, we help with so much more than just speech!*) An SLP can be an invaluable support in helping adults with ADHD reach their full potential. Here’s how a speech therapist can help:
- Enhancing Attention and Memory: Speech therapists recommend and train various techniques to improve attention and memory skills. These may include memory exercises, mindfulness practices, and cognitive strategies to stay focused during tasks. We’ve previously written blog posts about tips to improve attention and tips to help with short term memory.
- Boosting Executive Function: SLPs can help adults with ADHD learn strategies for better organization, time management, and problem solving. These skills are crucial for success in both personal and professional life. One strategy I love that helps attention, memory, and executive function is establishing routines – read my blog post where I delve deeper into routines.
- Supporting Communication and Social Skills: Communication difficulties often translate into challenges with social interactions. SLPs can offer guidance on reading social cues, navigating social norms, and building meaningful relationships, as well as increasing self-advocacy.
An SLP should also collaborate with other healthcare professionals, psychologists, and educators (as appropriate for each client) to provide comprehensive support for adults with ADHD.
Online Speech Therapy for Adults with ADHD with Lotus Speech & Wellness
Lotus Speech & Wellness proudly offers online cognitive-communication therapy to adults with ADHD. Therapy is individualized to focus on your personal goals, whether it’s with regard to home, work, or social life. We currently provide services to residents of Maine only. However, we anticipate being able to extend our reach via telepractice in 2024 thanks to the Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact. Please feel free to contact me with any questions via my contact form or by email (katherine@lotusslp.com) or phone (207-405-3496).
Frequently Asked Questions
Will insurance cover speech therapy for adult ADHD?
This will be on a case-by-case basis. In general, health insurance plans will cover speech therapy that is medically necessary. In other words, if ADHD is having a significantly detrimental impact on your ability to communicate effectively and/or participate safely and independently in daily activities. It can be helpful to get a physician referral for speech therapy to support medical necessity. At Lotus Speech & Wellness, we are in-network with Medicare and MaineCare insurances. We are out-of-network with commercial health insurance plans, so payment is expected at the time of service and then you’d submit a Superbill to your insurance for reimbursement.
How do I find a speech therapist to work with?
First, try word of mouth. Ask around to see if anyone has a personal recommendation. Next, search ASHA ProFind to find SLPs in your area. And of course, you can always do a google search. Try to find a speech-language pathologist who specializes in working with adults. A child with ADHD has a very different set of circumstances and challenges than an adult, so find an SLP who has experience with adult cognitive-communication therapy.
What’s the difference between speech therapy and ADHD coaching?
According to CHADD: “ADHD coaching is a relatively new field that has become more prominent in recent years. Coaching is an intervention that complements medication and other non-pharmacologic alternatives. As a specialty within the broader field of coaching, ADHD coaching is a practical intervention that specifically targets the core impairments of ADHD such as planning, time management, goal setting, organization and problem solving.” They add that ADHD coaches can “can have different educational and professional backgrounds and diverse knowledge about ADHD”, and there is currently no licensing requirement. SLPs are licensed, Master’s degree-level professionals with expertise in improving cognitive and communication skills for a variety of diagnoses, including adult ADHD.
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