How do I manage my kid's ADHD without medication?

ADHD is a set of behaviors, not an identity

I know how overwhelming it can feel when your child is diagnosed with ADHD. Or to even to suspect that they might have ADHD, worrying at the same time that labeling it would cause more harm than good. What I've found helpful to keep in mind is that what we call "ADHD" is just a set of behaviors—it doesn’t define your child’s identity or their potential. They are still the same curious, creative, and wonderful person, and ADHD features are simply one part of their experience. Let's not forget that over 10% of kids in the United States have been diagnosed with ADHD. This bundle of attributes is common, seen in millions of children and adults across the US, and it has its advantages: increased creativity, energy, spontaneity, and hyper-focus, to name a few. I've heard the ADHD brain described as a Lamborghini engine with bicycle brakes. Understanding this can help you approach the situation with a more open mindset, focusing on what works for your child rather than seeing it as a label or something that must be “fixed.”

Working in-person with a trained therapist or ADHD coach in San Francisco can help you and your child explore different ways to manage attention issues, with or without medication.

Getting buy-in

One of the most important steps in managing the features of ADHD, especially without medication, is getting buy-in from your child. Imagine how frustrating it must feel for them to constantly hear about things they need to change or ways they’re not meeting expectations. That’s why it’s crucial to approach this as a partnership, showing empathy and understanding. Let your child know you’re working with them, not against them, to build organizational skills that will help them thrive.

By framing your approach as “we’re doing this together to make life easier for you,” your child is more likely to feel supported and engaged. This helps build trust and makes them feel like they’re part of the solution, rather than the problem.

Behavioral therapy for ADHD without medication

For many families, behavioral therapy is a powerful tool for managing ADHD features—with or without relying on medication. This form of therapy focuses on teaching children practical skills for handling their emotions, improving focus, and managing impulsive behaviors. It also equips parents with strategies to support their child in a constructive way, such as positive reinforcement and consistent routines.

Through therapy, kids learn to break tasks into smaller, more manageable steps and develop coping mechanisms for the frustrations they often feel. It’s not a quick fix, but over time, behavioral therapy can have lasting effects that help children develop more control and confidence.

Working through ADHD as a family

Navigating ADHD is not something you need to do alone. Family therapy can be a valuable resource for helping everyone involved feel more supported. By working together, we can explore different strategies—whether that’s behavioral therapy, a referral to explore medication, or a combination of approaches—that are tailored to your child’s specific needs. I collaborate with families to find solutions that feel right for everyone involved.

Together with any members of your medical care team you choose to involve, we’ll work to find the best path forward for your child. The goal is always to help them thrive, whether in school, at home, or in their friendships, while making sure the whole family feels involved in the process.

If you'd like to explore how I can help your family manage ADHD, book a free consultation below.

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