Keep a Child Focused in the Classroom: ADHD Medication is Reduced by Two-Thirds When Combined with Therapy

SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aug. 1, 2006--For many children and families, back to school is the beginning to another year of educational frustration. An estimated 4.4 million children in the United States suffer from a condition called Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), making the ability to learn seem like an insurmountable feat.

Currently, more and more children are being diagnosed with ADHD and at earlier ages, raising parental concerns about the treatments for this condition. Previously, the answer for ADHD behavior has been medication; however, medication can only suppress the symptoms temporarily and is not a long-term solution in the battle for a child's success in life. In order for a child to lead a normal life, it's important that parents not use an ADHD diagnosis as an excuse for failure.

In recent findings, behavior therapy has proven to be an effective treatment in reinforcing the desired behavior and learning ability in ADHD children. Research has shown a combination of medication and behavioral therapy to yield greater results than medication alone. When the two are combined, the use of medication by itself is reduced by two-thirds, according to a study conducted by the University at Buffalo.

"With the explosion of the ADHD diagnosis, families must consider therapy as an alternative treatment," says Richard Paliani, licensed member of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists. "In as little as five to seven sessions, a therapist can teach coping strategies that will establish lasting positive behaviors in a child."

ADHD is a condition of the brain that makes it hard for children to control their hyperactive, impulsive and inattentive behavior. Even though almost all children struggle with sitting still or paying attention, children with ADHD possess these behaviors so severely that it interferes with their education, family and social lives.

In addition to medication and behavioral therapy, parents should take the time and energy to help their children overcome their challenges and reinforce coping skills.

Meeting with a mental health professional, such as a marriage and family therapist, helps a family develop ways to deal with the disorder. MFTs teach and reinforce positive behavior patterns such as social skills, organizational skills, attitudes and schedules. To learn more about MFTs and to locate one in your area, visit www.therapistfinder.com.

About CAMFT

The California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists, with 27 chapters throughout the state, is an independent professional organization, representing the interests of licensed therapists. CAMFT provides TherapistFinder.com as a resource to the public looking for marriage and family therapists located in California. For more information about CAMFT, please call 858-292-2638 or visit www.camft.org or www.therapistfinder.com