An ADD specialist focuses on assisting adults and children with finding specific ways to learn and experience the world around them. An ADHD or ADD specialist can test a child or adult with ADD on how he or she learns by experimenting with various teaching modalities and techniques. In times of stress or hyperactivity, some specialists who work with ADD people use relaxation techniques or guided visualization to help them relax. Many ADD specialists include parents or family members in sessions to teach them how to cope effectively with their loved one’s ADD and ADHD symptoms.
When an adult or child has ADD, it can be difficult to focus on a single task without being distracted by an intrusive thought or a bout of hyperactivity. An ADD specialist will frequently find ways for a person to learn according to his or her unique abilities and to take advantage of certain aspects of the disorder. For those with a high level of imagination, teaching an ADD patient to imagine a story while learning a specific task or problem may be beneficial. Another example is writing a song about the problem and including a solution at the end of the song.
A person with ADD or ADHD is more likely to have mood swings, tantrums, or high levels of excitability or activity on occasion. An ADD specialist can often help a hyperactive child or adult calm down by teaching them basic relaxation techniques. This can lead to less stress, as well as increased productivity and learning. An ADD specialist can help with deep breathing exercises, meditation, and guided imagery, to name a few methods.
In some sessions, an ADD specialist should include a parent or other family member to teach him or her how to use these techniques effectively at home or in everyday life. Basic relaxation techniques, as well as unique techniques that can help the individual overcome a problem, should be taught to a parent or family member. Many ADD specialists can also act as a counselor for individuals, giving ADD patients a therapeutic outlet. Art therapy and family therapy are also popular aspects of an ADD specialist’s practice because they can help family members and the child or adult with ADD communicate and understand each other.