ADHD/ADD Therapy In Cedar Rapids

Anxiety Therapy

What is ADHD/ ADD?

ADHD can be categorized into three major types. The first is hyperactive-impulsive, children and adults with this type of struggle with sitting still for extended periods of time and will be seem constantly fidgeting.

The second type is inattentive, children and adults with this type of struggle with focusing for long periods of time and can be seen day-dreaming more often than not. At times they can struggle with motivation to complete tasks as well.

The third type is combined, children and adults with this type can both be seen being unable to sit still/ fidgeting and have shortened attention spans. This is commonly found in childhood, however, there are some adults who slip through the cracks and get diagnosed in adulthood.

What are the Symptoms of ADHD/ADD?

There are many symptoms of ADHD which can be broken down into three major distinctions; the first is mainly hyperactive-impulsive type, the second is mainly inattentive type, and the third is combined type. Here are some common symptoms:

  • Aggression
  • Anxiety
  • Excitability
  • Fidgeting
  • Hyperactivity
  • Impulsivity
  • Irritability
  • Lack Of Restraint
    • Not able to wait their turn
    • Interrupting conversations
  • Persistent Repetition of Words or Actions
  • Absent-Mindedness
  • Difficulty Focusing
  • Forgetfulness
  • Problem Paying Attention/ Short Attention Span
  • Learning Difficulties
  • Anger
  • Anxiety
  • Boredom
  • Excitement
  • Mood Swings
  • Depression

Depending on the type of ADHD being faced, there are also other symptoms that can be seen. You may also experience certain symptoms more than others.

Our ADHD/ ADD Treatment Approach

In our clinic in Cedar Rapids, we use evidence-based methods and various academic studies. Our therapists are qualified in many therapeutic methods to treat different forms of ADHD. Our methods can help you get better control of your ADHD and find the coping skills that work for you.

When working with children who have ADHD creative person-centered approaches like Play Therapy, Art Therapy, and Narrative Therapy are extremely beneficial and help children communicate in a way they understand. The same can also be said for adults, we employ different techniques CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment therapy, based on what you want to work on and how you best communicate.

How ADHD/ ADD Therapy Can Help

Therapy should be a place where you can process through the stress and anxiety of masking while out in public and the subsequent exhaustion you feel when you are at home. Therapy can be very useful in finding coping skills that can help manage symptoms and will allow you to have a space to feel like yourself.

Meet Our Cedar Rapids Therapists

Here at Guiding Light Counseling Center, we have two experienced and highly educated therapists who are passionate about helping people enjoy a better quality of life. Between the two of them, they offer a wide variety of therapy services focused on helping to improve and better the lives of the people living in Cedar Rapids.

Young girl in play therapy

Alicia Gerber, LMHC, RPT

Master’s Degree: Clinical Counseling Psychology, Loras University
Alicia has been serving as a therapist in Cedar Rapids for years, and has helped many people improve their lives with the quality therapeutic services she offers.
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Young girl in play therapy

Samantha Jacobo tLMFT

Master of Art Degree: Marriage and Family Therapy, Mount Mercy University 2024
Couples work, infidelity, trauma, post traumatic stress disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, attention deficit/ hyperactivity disorder, depression, anxiety, grief and adjustment disorders, sexual trauma, blended families, cognitive disorders after stroke
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Young girl in play therapy

Skyler Postel, tLMFT

Master of Art Degree: Marriage and Family Therapy, Mount Mercy University
Skyler has specialties in anxiety, body positivity, childhood mental health, depression, family conflict, first responders, grief, marital and premarital, relationship issues, school issues, women’s issues, LGBTQ+
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Young girl in play therapy

Mellette Maurice, tLMFT

Master of Art Degree: Marriage and Family Therapy, Mount Mercy University
Mellette has specialized in LGBTQ+, Identity Issues, Substance Use, Intimate Partner Violence, Anxiety and Panic, Teens, Psychosis
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Young girl in play therapy

Chelsea Smorstad, LISW

Master of Social Work from St. Ambrose in Davenport, Iowa
Kids, Substance Abuse/Use, Individuals
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